Question

What are the important factors that influence physical database design?

Short answer

The key factors that influence physical database design include the choice of database management system, the estimated database size, the transaction load and nature of transactions, the hardware being used, as well as security needs. All these factors help in making decisions on data storage, indexing, data distribution, and data accessibility.

Step-by-step solution

Define Physical Database Design

Physical database design refers to the process of choosing and installing data storage and data access characteristics. It involves optimizing performance, maintaining data, and ensuring accuracy, security, and reliability of data that is crucial to business operations.

Identify and Discuss Factors

Some factors include database management system, estimated database size, expected transaction load, nature of the transactions processed, hardware, and security needs. Each of these factors can namely affect the choice of physical structures and devices, choice of indexes, clustering, partitioning strategies, and handling of concurrency and recovery.

Link Factors to Database Design

For example, the database management system determines the physical architecture options available. The estimated database size influences aspects like storage allocation. The expected transaction load and nature of transactions processed guide decisions on indexing and data distribution. The hardware dictates limitations and opportunities for physical design, while security needs guide design decisions that will affect data integrity and user accessibility.