6. Analyzing the Current Database

To see what is in front of one’s nose needs a constant struggle.

—GEORGE ORWELL IN FRONT OF YOUR NOSE

Topics Covered in This Chapter

Getting to Know the Current Database

Conducting the Analysis

Looking at How Data Is Collected

Looking at How Information Is Presented

Conducting Interviews

Interviewing Users

Interviewing Management

Compiling a Complete List of Fields

Case Study

Summary

Review Questions

Getting to Know the Current Database

To determine where you should go, you must first understand where you are.

This maxim defines the entire philosophy behind this phase of the database design process. You must devote some time to gaining a clear understanding of your organization’s database so that you can

• Determine ...

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