For many new or intermediate database developers, it's difficult to know where to start when designing a relational database. It's easy to make the mistake of assuming that the functionality of a database will take shape over time, or the design will fall into place as you build the database. This course covers the steps to effectively plan and design functional, efficient databases.
Course Objectives
You will plan a relational database so that you have a database that is efficient and easy to maintain.
Prerequisites
Before taking this course, you should have a basic understanding of your computer's operating system. For example, you should know how to launch an application, create and save files, and copy files from CD and other media. You should have some familiarity with data tables and basic knowledge of how to create queries in Microsoft Access.
To ensure your success, we also recommend you first take Access 2002: Levels 1 and 2.
Target Student:
Individuals who already use relational databases, and have a need to design or modify the design of tables to be used in a relational database management system. They know the basics of how to use a relational database, but do not know how to design a database.
Platform Requirements
- Windows 98, Me, NT 4.0 (Service Pack 6), Windows 2000, or Windows XP (Windows 2000 or XP recommended).
Hardware Requirements
- An Intel-compatible computer Pentium 133 or higher, Pentium III recommended.
- At least 32 MB of RAM, 128 MB recommended.
- A CD-ROM drive.
Software Requirements
- Microsoft Access 2002 or later version.
Performance-Based Objectives
- Gather information to plan a relational database.
- Identify relationships between tables.
- Normalize data.
- Ensure data integrity.
- Determine queries needed for the database.
Delivery Method:
Instructor led, group-paced, classroom-delivery learning model with structured hands-on activities.
Course duration
1 Day(s)
Course outline
Lesson 1: Gathering Information to Plan a Relational Database
- Topic 1A: Determine Database Purpose
- Topic 1B: Create a Preliminary Field List
- Topic 1C: Determine Fields
- Topic 1D: Group Fields into Tables
Lesson 2: Identifying Relationships
- Topic 2A: Designate Primary Key Fields
- Topic 2B: Identify Table Relationships
Lesson 3: Normalizing Data
- Topic 3A: Normalize to the First Normal Form
- Topic 3B: Normalize to the Second Normal Form
- Topic 3C: Normalize to the Third Normal Form
- Topic 3D: Normalize to the Higher Normal Forms
Lesson 4: Ensuring Data Integrity
- Topic 4A: Ensure Consistent Data
- Topic 4B: Prevent Field Data Errors
Lesson 5: Determining Queries
- Topic 5A: Determine Select Queries
- Topic 5B: Determine Calculations
- Topic 5C: Determine Action Queries
- Topic 5D: Improve Query Performance
- Topic 5E: Test Queries
Appendix A: Additional
Resources
Appendix B: Query Criteria
