Supportsoft Glossary

Data Modeling Techniques for Structured Information Design

Data modelling organises and structures data in a way that allows it to be properly stored, managed, and used in a way that maximises its ability to be leveraged in a system. This may include identifying all of the data elements, their relationships, and the rules which dictate how data flows through an application. The structured approach enables teams to have a clear view of the data environment prior to development, which reduces inconsistencies and the need for rework.

A good data model is a representation of business processes as they exist in real life. For instance, the different parts of an e-commerce business could include customers, orders, payments, products and inventory. By documenting these relationships early in the development process, developers can ensure that the final product meets the needs of the business.

Typically, data models develop through three stages: conceptual, logical and physical. The conceptual model identifies and defines the high-level entities, the   identifies and defines the attributes and relationships, and the physical model explains how the data will be stored in a database. Each stage provides more clarity for teams, allowing for improved planning around performance, security, and scalability.

Good data modelling provides an additional benefit for the organisation, which is increased efficiency in making business decisions, integrating systems, and reporting. Data modelling provides organisations with a firm foundation for keeping data aligned with their strategic goals as their systems grow, evolve and change.