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For those who wish to create and maintain thier own database, here is an overview to help you start building a database file.
When you need to build a database, there is a process you need to follow a plan. When you get to the point of drafting your tables and fields, get out the pencil and paper. The idea is to draw a picture of your tables and fields and how the data in the tables is related. Simple step by step approch to this paper and pencil listed below.
The Database Design Process
- Identify the purpose of the database.
- Make a preliminary list of fields.
- Make a preliminary list of tables and enter the fields.
- Identify a key field.
- Draft the table relationships.
- Enter sample data and normalize the data.
- Test, test and test
- Review and finalize the design.
You'll need to go through the first few steps of identifying the purpose of the database and, in subsequent topics, will design the tables and relationships. You're the database designer and the information contained represents the client (the person(s) who has expressed the need for a database).
So, where to begin?
- Identify the purpose of the database.
You will rarely be handed a detailed specification for the database. The desire for a database is usually initially expressed as things the client wants it to do. Things like:
- We need to keep track of our inventory.
- We need an order entry system.
- I need monthly reports on sales.
Your goal is to collect as much information as you can about the desired products of the database and to collect that information into tables and fields.
- Make a preliminary list of fields.
- Make a preliminary list of tables and enter the fields.
- Identify the key fields.
- Draft the table relationships.
- Enter sample data and normalize the data.
- Review and finalize the design.
Good Luck and keep trying until the database fulfills your needs or let VAOffice design/ maintain your database application
VAOffice will
audit your procedures within your company to see which tasks could be automated.
- Employees doing time consuming tasks.
- Entering the same data more than once.
- Compiling reports or statistics manually.
- Overuse of spreadsheets.
- Mail merging or form letters.
- Streamline data operations
Not enough time for automation? Let VAOffice maintain your database. VAOffice will build and maintain your database so you can concentrate on your business.
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