What is structural independence why is it important?

Structural independence refers to the ability of a database system to change its schema without affecting the applications that rely on it. This is important because it allows for flexibility and adaptability in managing data, enabling organizations to evolve their systems without significant disruptions. By ensuring that applications remain unaffected by changes in data structure, businesses can improve their efficiency and reduce maintenance costs. Additionally, it fosters innovation by allowing developers to implement new features or optimizations without extensive rework.