What is good database design?
When you start to think about “what is good database design,” you should begin with its two core principles. The first one is that redundant data is bad because it takes up room and creates errors. And the second is that complete and correct information is the most important thing. If you have bad data, the conclusions you make will be based on that data and will be wrong. From these two main ideas, you can start to create a good database (or have us do it for you).
Core elements of good databases
A good database will accommodate all your data processing and reporting needs, at a minimum. It will put information into subject-based tables to reduce redundant data and include processes that ensure the accuracy and integrity of your information. Next, it will join disparate tables together in sensible and useful ways. And finally, it will be easy for the users to interact with, helping them do their jobs better and more efficiently.
The database design process
When you go to make a database, you’ll want to follow this general flow:
- Start with the purpose of your database, what does it need to do?
- Find and bring together all the information you will need to store.
- Put that information into tables around subjects or like-type groupings.
- Determine what fields you want to display along each item of information.
- Create a unique identifier or primary key for each row above.
- Now decide how each of your tables will be related to the other.
- Next, check your design with some sample data and refine it where needed.
- Lastly, apply data normalization rules to see if your tables are structured correctly.
- If everything is working as intended, roll it out!
Mistakes to avoid
The first and most obvious mistakes to avoid are poor planning, bad naming conventions and a lack of documentation. Not only should you know what everything will do in your database but you need to write it down. Simple Talk explains, “Not only will a well-designed data model adhere to a solid naming standard, it will also contain definitions on its tables, columns, relationships, and even default and check constraints, so that it is clear to everyone how they are intended to be used.” Next are lazy database design elements like having one table to hold all your domain values, trying to build generic objects or using identity columns as your only key; if you’re going to do a database design project, execute it to a high standard. And last, but not least… test, test and test again. A lack of testing will really bite you as it’s impossible to account for every use case and the fewer test sessions you do, the more likely it is that your database will throw up errors on release.
Want a database that helps you make better business decisions and more sales? Our team can help. Talk to us today about your data processing needs and we’ll help you make use of good database design within your own organisation.
