A database management system (DBMS) plays a critical role in data storage by providing a structured framework for creating, retrieving, and managing data efficiently. It facilitates data organization through tables and relationships, ensuring data integrity and security. The DBMS allows users to perform operations such as querying, updating, and reporting on data without needing to understand the underlying complexities. Additionally, it offers features like transaction management and backup solutions, which are essential for safeguarding data and maintaining availability, making it indispensable for businesses reliant on data.