Database Design Guide

Keys to Successful Database Design Planning, Planning, and Planning. Oh did I mention Planning? Seriously, planning is the largest most significant aspect of database design and is often sold short for the raison de jour. This results in databases which do not meet requirements, do not meet expectations, or are otherwise unwieldy. Before switching on your computer and getting geeky using your tools of choice you should sit down and, with pencil and paper in hand, verify your requirements, diagram your data, and plan your database. Then proceed quickly with more paper and pointy pencils to refine a design. Then and only then should you turn on your computer and start coding the database. But I am getting ahead of myself.