A methodology and tool for top-down relational database design

摘要

This paper presents a methodology for logical design of relational schemas and integrity constraints using semantic binary schemas. This is a top-down methodology. In this methodology, a conceptual description of an enterprise is designed using a semantic binary model. Then, this description is converted into the relational database design.The paper also describes a tool which automates all the busy work of the methodology and provides graphic output. With respect to the intelligent design decisions, the tool accepts instructions from its user, who is a database designer, or, when the user defaults, makes decisions itself based on ‘rule-of-thumb’ principles.