Patterns of Data Modeling

Chapter 16

Relational Database Design

This chapter summarizes my approach to database design. I start with a UML model of conceptual and logical intent and use that as the basis for preparing an IDEF1X model. Given an IDEF1X model, modern tools can readily generate SQL code to create the database structure. As a matter of software engineering discipline, I recommend a uniform policy for database design and deviate from the recommendations that follow only for good cause (such as demanding performance).

16.1 Mapping: Entity Types

As Figure 16.1 shows, each entity type normally maps to a table. Each attribute becomes a column in the table. There may be additional columns for existence-based identity, buried relationships, and generalization discriminators ...