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You
can easily avoid an error both new and experienced
database users often make. Don't fail to plan
your database design. Before sitting down at
your computer's keyboard to create a new database,
follow these simple but important
steps.
 Interview
the database users. Ask them to describe the
procedures they plan to automate. What normally
happens? What exceptions will the database need
to accommodate? Find out what the boss wants,
but don't forget to get the data entry person's
point of view, too.
Assemble
samples of forms and reports you will need to print
using your database. If you don't have printed
examples
to follow, sketch them out on paper. Note
any calculations that the software must perform.
Work
backward from these forms and reports to develop
your table structure. List the table fields, remembering
to
break data down into small pieces for greatest
flexibility.
Consider
your long-term goals. Even if you do not implement
them now, you can design your database to make
it
easier to add these improvements in the
future.
Once
you have finished evaluating your database needs,
walk through the process you are attempting to
automate with your database. Again, review your
assumptions with the people who will be using
the database or the output it produces.
The
evaluation process described above may seem
tedious. By slowing down and evaluating your needs
in advance, however, you will save yourself time
and frustration in the long run.
Proctor &
Peake, Inc.
9620 NE 2nd Avenue, Suite 209
Miami Shores, FL 33138
305-751-1181 / 1-800-943-6031
 e-mail
us
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