Why Good Design Matters

Well-written database application programs—whether they execute locally, run over a local area network, or feed information to a Web site—are fundamental to timely and accurate data retrieval. However, without a good underlying database design, even the best program cannot avoid problems with inaccurate and inconsistent data. Many of today's businesses rely on their database systems for accurate, up-to-date information. Without those repositories of mission-critical data, most businesses are unable to perform their normal daily transactions or to create summary reports that help management make strategic corporate decisions. To be useful, the data in a database must be accurate, complete, and organized in such a way that data can be retrieved when needed and in the format desired. In addition, it must be free from unnecessary duplicated data. Also, the data in the database should be consistent. Thereafter, the data insertion as well as data deletion problems should be looked into. This is necessary for maintenance of records as well as for the goodwill of the organization among its clients.