7 Deadly Database Design Mistakes to Avoid in 2021

Database is to website what heart is to human body. Data is the blood and database is the heart. It is important to keep your database safe and secure. There are going to be lots of attempt from hackers and unauthorized persons to hack to your database.

While they (hackers) might use some vulnerability to access data, some of your common mistakes can also help them in accessing the data.

We are enlisting the deadly database design mistakes that you should avoid at all cost;

1 - Document everything:

It is important to document the design of your database and save all the tiny bits about it at a safe place. Creating multiple backups of the documentation would be beneficial too. The very first step in database design is to document everything.

2 - Focus on Normalization:

I am not going to go into details on what normalization is. People acquainted with database already knows the normalization and its importance. Try to 1st and 3rd normalize your database for better data access.

3 - Keep it updated:

There can be vulnerabilities in your database design that the hacker might exploit and get access to the data. With the passage of time, keep updating the design and database management system to avoid any loss. I suggest updating the database management system every time a new update comes on.

4 - Reference Data Storage Issue:

Many new database designers store improper reference to the reference data. You must not opt for this mistake as it can slow down the whole system and can proven to be fatal for your business or project. Store the reference data properly!

5 - Use Foreign Keys:

Foreign Keys were created for a purpose. Not using them could be a big risk that you must avoid. Foreign keys help in efficient validation checks and can keep your data safe. Therefore, I highly suggest you to use foreign keys whenever possible.

6 - Use Proper Naming Standards:

Although it is not necessary to use the proper naming standard, your database would work without it. But it is highly recommended for database designers to go by the book. Use the proper naming standards so it would be easier for future database designers to understand your database.

7 - Primary Keys used incorrectly:

While it is not suggested to avoid Foreign Keys, it is also not suggested to use Primary Keys randomly. A Primary Key uniquely identifies your data and hence it is important to choose a Primary Key for identifying the unique data correctly.

Once a wrong Primary Key is selected, it becomes extremely difficult to choose another primary key as you would have to revamp your whole database. Therefore, we highly recommend using the primary keys correctly.

This was our story for today. In our next story, we will write about the steps to follow if you want to create an efficient database. In case you are looking for a database consultancy, visit us at Whizpool.