14.6. Normalization
The process of mapping from a conceptual schema expressed in atomic fact types to a relational schema involving table types is one of deconceptualization. This approach facilitates sound design primarily because it emphasizes working from examples, using natural language, and thinking in terms of the real-world objects being modeled.
The advantages of using elementary facts are clear: working in simple units helps get each one correct; constraints are easier to express and check; nulls are avoided; redundancy control is facilitated; the schema is easier to modify (one fact type at a time); and the same conceptual schema may be mapped to different logical data models (so decisions about grouping fact types together may be ...
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