Data Modeling and Database Design
The use of databases can significantly improve an organization's ability to access, share, and apply relevant information. However, despite the wealth of data available in a database, its value is greatly dependent on its design. Designing a database that creates logical data relationships for the end users ensures the best conditions for developing information and knowledge for real-world application.
This Discussion focuses on the importance of thoughtful data modeling and database design. You also consider strategies for mitigating design issues.
To prepare:
Review the information in this week's Learning Resources on data modeling and database design.
Reflect on how you have seen these concepts evidenced in a health care organization's use of databases.
Consider the benefits and challenges of data modeling, both generally and within an organization with which you are familiar.
Review the six different issues with database design described in "Data Aggregation: A Case Study," found in this week's Learning Resources.
Have you experienced any of these in your own database use? How could an organization avoid such issues through planning?
Select one of the issues and conduct additional research using the Walden Library to locate an article that addresses your selected issue and provides insights into how it can be avoided.
Post by tomorrow 6/14/16 550 words in APA format and 3 references
1) The benefits and challenges of data modeling both generally and within a health care organization.
2) Describe the database design issue you selected and briefly summarize your findings (include your reference).
3) Suggest strategies for how this issue could be mitigated in the database planning phase.
Required Resources
Readings
Coronel, C. & Morris, S. (2015). Database systems: Design, implementation, and management (11th ed.). Stamford, CT: Cengage Learning.
Chapter 2, "Data Models" (pp. 34-66)
During database design, the objective is to formulate a system where data is stored for optimum access and use. By providing a history of data modeling's development, the authors build an understanding of the contemporary database models introduced in this chapter.
Chapter 9, Sections 9.4-9.9, "Database Design" (pp. 431-451)
This section of Chapter 9 deals with conceptualizing database design. It explores all the factors and conditions that need to be considered to ensure that the final product satisfies the end user.
Rux, E., & Borchert, T. (2010). You have how many spreadsheets? Computers in Libraries, 30(8), 21-25.
Retrieved from the Walden Library databases.
In this article, the authors provide an example of the development of their database, revealing the successes and missteps they encountered during the process. Managing electronic resources requires a system designed to accommodate the storage and flow of necessary data.
Roberts, A. L., & Sewell, J. P. (2011). Data aggregation: A case study. CIN: Computers, Informatics, Nursing, 29(1), 3-7.
Retrieved from the Walden Library databases.
The authors of this article address the need for nurses to adapt to database use. As a condition of the HITECH Act, changes in nursing instruction, data capturing, and health care procedures are required to accommodate the increasing reliance on electronic health records in nursing.