Designing an Efficient and Scalable Relational Database Schema

Abstract

Relational databases are a critical component of modern software applications, providing a reliable and scalable method for storing and managing data. A well-designed database schema can enhance the performance and flexibility of applications, making them more efficient and easier to maintain. Data modeling is an essential process in designing a database schema, and it involves identifying and organizing data entities, attributes, and relationships. In this chapter, the authors discuss the principles of designing an efficient and scalable relational database schema, with a focus on data modeling techniques. They explore the critical aspects of normalization, data types, relationships, indexes, and denormalization, as well as techniques for optimizing database queries and managing scalability challenges. The principles discussed in this chapter can be applied to various database management systems and can be useful for designing a schema that meets the demands of modern data-intensive applications.