Database Design, Programming, & Optimization

A good database design can mean the difference between success and failure of a project.

The database must be able to handle all the business requirements of the application in a performant and reliable manner. If the business expands or changes, the database must be able to accomodate this without having to throw everything out and starting over, i.e. it must be scalable.

Database performance is key. At best, poor performance affects the usability of the application. At worst, all the users and applications on the network will also be crippled.

Another key factor is data integrity. You must be confident that the data is stored, retrieved, and edited without error or corruption.

Often data must be moved from a pre-existing application to a new application. This usually entails a change in database design, often a change in the database itself (e.g. from Microsoft Access or Borland/Corel Paradox to SQL Server). Sometimes the old database is then retired, sometimes it remains live. Your business requirements will dictate this and the application must follow suit.