11.1. Implementing a Conceptual Schema

Most database modeling tools allow you to enter a data model in one or more high level notations (e.g., ER, IDEF1X, ORM, or UML), as well as a logical level notation (e.g., relational). Typically a high level (conceptual or semiconceptual) schema must be mapped down to a logical and then physical schema in order for the database to be populated and queried. Assuming you do the right thing and model first at the conceptual level, the main steps in implementing your data model are as follows.

  • Design the conceptual schema

  • Annotate the conceptual schema with mapping choices as needed

  • Map the design to a logical schema (e.g., relational or object-relational)

  • Finesse the logical schema as needed (e.g., rename or ...

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