The Dangerous Illusion: Normalization, Performance and Integrity

Mr. Fabian Pascal
Founder, Editor and Publisher of Database Debunking

October 31, 2003
11 a.m. - 12 noon
Fuller Labs 320

Abstract

One of the most egregiously abused aspects of information modeling and database design is normalization. Despite the fact that they were repeatedly debunked, arguments against normalization and for denormalization continue to sway practitioners, be they experienced or novices. This costs dearly and reveals the poor understanding of sound design principles by even those who profess to be experts. It is both a major reason for and a consequence of SQL deficiencies and technology regressions such as ODBMS, OLAP, and XML that have come to haunt data management.

This--rather short--presentation shows why the notion of "denormalization for performance" is a fallacy, and exposes its costly implications, of which most practitioners are blissfully unaware. It demonstrates why current DBMS products may force users into denormalization and outlines the correct relational implementation principle, which ought to guide implementers in addressing this problem.

Biography

Mr. Fabian Pascal has a national and international reputation as an independent technology analyst, consultant, author and lecturer specializing in data management. He was affiliated with Codd & Date and for 20 years held various analytical and management positions in the private and public sectors, has taught and lectured at the business and academic levels, and advised vendor and user organizations on data management technology, strategy and implementation.

Clients include IBM, Census Bureau, CIA, Apple, Borland, Cognos, UCSF, and IRS. He is founder, editor and publisher of http://www.dbdebunk.com/>DATABASE DEBUNKINGS, a web site dedicated to dispelling persistent fallacies, flaws, myths and misconceptions prevalent in the IT industry.

Host

Fernando C. Colon Osorio

Refreshments will be served.

Maintained by webmaster@wpi.edu
Last modified: Sep 27, 2006, 16:05 EDT