A set of structured query language (SQL) statements (see definition of structured query language) that is stored in the database with an assigned name and in compiled form so it can be shared by a number of programs. The use of stored procedures can be helpful in controlling access to data (end users may enter or change data but not write procedures), preserving data integrity (information is entered in a consistent manner), and improving productivity (statements in
a stored procedure need to be written only once).