Database assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Database - Assignment Example This whole function has brought a breakthrough in the fields of re-engineering, modeling and construction. Considering a data model, it is a flowchart or diagram that brings out the specific relationships present within data values. Effective data management requires that relationships between data be accurately determined and represented. It is therefore a process that should not be ignored. Data models which are efficiently designed allow for identification of errors and misconceptions that might be present in a data range. Data modeling has been given different approaches due to its importance. According to Burbank, these approaches include the following: Physical data modeling This type of modeling makes use of the current facilities and specific constraints of a particular database management system. It provides database specific kind of representation of a data model. Conceptual data modeling This kind of data modeling makes use of concepts and their specific relationships appl icable to databases. It explains the nature of a database using a series of assumptions and semantics. Logical data modeling This is a type of data modeling whereby specific data representations of a given company are explained using relationships and entities. Moreover, it is not dependent of any specific technology of data management. Enterprise data modeling In this modeling, graphical models are used to represent data in a company. This implies that outputs like XML Schemas (XSD) and Entity Relationship Diagrams (ERDs) are used to provide data model outputs. (Burbank, 2011) In an attempt to make data modeling more efficient and realistic, several data modeling software have been developed over the past few years. For instance, CA Erwin Data Modeler and Oracle Data Modeler are some of the modeling software that are now widely used all over the world. These two programs have made data modeling more efficient, faster and cheaper than using the conventional methods. This paper will provide deeper insight on both Erwin and Oracle data modeler tools. The two programs will also be compared and their key features and functionalities outlined. Overview of CA Erwin Data Modeler Erwin data modeler is a data modeling tool used to perform the same function by several companies and organizations. There are also several other companies that uses the same data modeler throughout the globe. This program was initially developed by a renowned software developer known as Logic Works. Platinum Technology later purchased it in 1998. In 1999, Computer Associates purchased Platinum and is the same company that directly markets it. As a modern data modeling software, Erwin support a wide variety of database design functions that encompasses the following: Data modeling Forward engineering (This involves the process of creating a specific physical database and database schema model while relying on the grounds of data model) Reverse engineering(Where data models are created in rega rds to a pre-existing model of data) These functions are applicable in Erwin for various relational database hierarchical structures that cover a wide variety of used databases (Burbank, 2011). Erwin can be used to perform data modeling for different types of databases like information systems, database transactional systems, data marts and several others. Erwin support various displays of diagrams drawn or structured from different perspectives. For instance, it allows for viewing and manipulation of