Independence Forever

In database management, as in certain other aspects of life, independence is something to strive for. Data independence is a crucial aspect of database management: It lets applications change without affecting database design, and it lets database design change without affecting applications. A database management system should not force you to make irrevocable decisions about what data you'll store, how you'll access it, or what your users will require. You don't want to be stuck with a system that's become obsolete because your work requirements have changed.

The relational model provides data independence on two important levels: physical and logical. Physical storage is an architectural issue: It differs from vendor to ...

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