Database Design Basics
A properly designed database provides you with access to up-to-date, accurate information.
Some Database Terms to Know
A database organizes your information into tables: lists of rows and columns reminiscent of an accountant’s pad or a spreadsheet.
In a simple database, you might have only one table.
For most databases you will need more than one.
Each row is more correctly called a record, and each column, a field.
A record is a meaningful and consistent way to combine information about something.
A field is a single item of information — an item type that appears in every record.
What Is Good Database Design?
Certain principles guide the database design process:
- The first principle is that duplicate information (also called redundant data) is bad, because it wastes space and increases the likelihood of errors and inconsistencies.
- The second principle is that the correctness and completeness of information is important.
A good database design is, therefore, one that:
- Divides your information into subject-based tables to reduce redundant data.
- Provides database with the information it requires to join the information in the tables together as needed.
- Helps support and ensure the accuracy and integrity of your information.
- Accommodates your data processing and reporting needs.