A practical approach to database theory.

If you intend to develop database applications for professional usage, and have experience with VBA/VB and SQL programming, but are still uncertain of database theory. Then you are in the target group of Designing Relational Database Systems.

The book consists of 3 parts:
First, relational database theory. Do yourself a favour and read this part again and again until you understand the definitions, since they will be referred to throughout the book.

Second, designing relational database systems with focus on how and what information you should obtain prior to developing a database.

Third, designing the user interface where the author describes the different standards behind a good user interface.

The first part of the book is by far the most challenging and difficult to comprehend, as database theory is a rather academic subject. Ms. Riordan uses academic terminology only when needed, it is obvious that she knows the limitations of the theory in real world database developing.

In the last 2 parts of the book, the experience and hands on approach of the author becomes evident. However, I disagree with her use of dialog boxes in chapter 16 (Maintaining database integrity), they are not user friendly at all.

For beginners to relational database theory I recommend: Inside Relational Databases by Whitehorn & Markly (ISBN 354076092X). The advanced reader should try: Database Systems by Connolly & Begg (ISBN 0201708574).

I strongly recommend this book to any Access/SQL Server developer who has already programmed a few applications, and needs to strengthen his theoretical knowledge.

Other Reviews

• Establish a Firm Relational DB Foundation
• A practical approach to database theory.
• a must
• There are times when I whish for the six star