Fundamentals of Database Design

Abstract

We looked at the relational data model back in Chapter 2. In this chapter we will look at the fundamentals of applying that model to real-world situations. We’ll start by looking at the concept of data modeling and why it is important. Then, once we have got to grips with these basic modeling ideas, we’ll look at some of the common data structures that arise in our applications. We will also look at the practical implications of data integrity — the rules that determine the validity of data in our database. Finally we’ll look briefly at using a software-diagramming tool to help us design our databases