Data Modeling Resource Center

Data modeling is a critical skill for IT professionals including: database administrators (DBAs), data modelers, business analysts and software developers. It is an essential ingredient of nearly all IT projects. Without a data model there is no blueprint for the design of the database.

What is Data Modeling?

Data modeling is the process of creating and extending data models which are visual representations of data and its organization. The ERD Diagram (Entity Relationship Diagram) is the most popular type of data model. Data models exist at multiple levels including:

• The Conceptual Data Model describes data from a high level. It defines the problem rather than the solution from the business point of view. It includes entities and their relationships. Typically the conceptual data model is developed first.
• The Logical Data Model describes a logical solution to a data project. It provides more details than the conceptual data model and is nearly ready for the creation of a database. These details include attributes, the individual pieces of information that will be included. Typically the logical data model is developed second.
• The Physical Data Model describes the implementation of data in a physical database. It is the blueprint for the database. Typically the physical data model is developed third.

Data Modeling Experts

• stevehoberman.com : Steve Hoberman - data modeling author and lecturer
• Essential Strategies : David C. Hay - data modeling guru
• davidhaertzen.com : David Haertzen - Training and consulting in data modeling
• Object Role Modeling : Dr. Terry Halpin - Object Role Modeling originator and author
• Universal Data Models : Len Silverston - author and creator of universal data model patterns
• William G Smith Associates : William G Smith - data resource management consultant and instructor

Additional Data Modeling Resources