Database Design and Implementation

Abstract

Database management systems offer powerful tools for the storage, organisation and retrieval of historical data. However, the benefits they offer are only attainable if the data are properly organised. All too often little thought is given to issues of database design, with the result that more complex types of queries cannot be answered and the desired information retrieved from the system. This danger is often acute in historical research because of the inherent complexity of the data and the circular nature of the research process. Database design describes the two related stages of data analysis and data modelling essential to the creation of correctly structured databases. Over the years, computer professionals have devoted much attention to the development of structured methodologies in order to reap the theoretical benefits of modern database management software and cope with the practical problems of database design. The general purpose is to produce a conceptual model that can be implemented using a database management system. It must be developed according to correct principles, otherwise the resulting system will not function efficiently in terms of either data entry, storage and update, or speed and quality of information retrieval.