Microsoft SQL Server 2005 Reporting Services, 2nd Edition

3.1. Database Structure

Databases are basically giant containers for storing information. They are the electronic crawlspaces and digital attics of the corporate, academic, and governmental worlds. For example, anything that needs to be saved for later use by payroll, inventory management, or the external auditor is placed in a database.

Just like our crawlspaces and attics at home, the information placed in a database needs to be organized and classified. Figure 3-1 shows my attic in its current state. As you can see, it is going to be pretty hard to find those old kids' clothes for the thrift store clothing drive! I know they are up there somewhere.

Without some type of order placed on it, all the stuff in our home storage spaces becomes impossible ...