Re: A database design question

On Wed, 30 Jul 1997 15:07:04 -0500, Sanjay Rallapally <c696346_at_showme.missouri.edu> wrote:

>
>Its me again,
>I am curious abut the level of database&nbsp; normalization that is
>followd in the real-world . How rigidly do u guys follow the database design
>rules regarding normalization? Lastly, when is it better to have an unnormalized
>table, than an unnormalized one? I mean, how useful are indexes as against
>having a normalizzed table
>

In my experience, the issue of proper normalization sometimes hides faulty designs. You can have real garbage interface driven database designs that are technically perfect 3rd normal form. That buys you very little if the development effort hasen't paid due regard to the fundamental concepts and physical realities of the systems being modelled.

My opinion is that normalization isn't an issue of right or wrong. System constraints will always dictate what is appropriate. Worry foremost that the system model will implement lasting entities and processes that won't change with the whims of the next developer that comes along.

My 2 cents worth. In any case, good luck.

TRG Received on Thu Jul 31 1997 - 00:00:00 CDT