Data base design constrained by traffic load estimates

This paper discusses a mathematical model for finding an effective design of a logical data base. It is argued that a logical data base should not only integrate multiple users' views of information. It should also reflect the data base activity of each individual application and be based on performance tradeoffs among the different applications. Our model shows how this activity can be mapped into activity within the global information structure which describes the integrated view of the information. This is an aid for subsequent logical record definition and schema design.

The model is based on knowledge of a large number of input parameters, some of which have greater impact on the final data base solution than others. Sensitivity analysis of the system's behaviour with respect to changes in parameters help focus on the most critical parameters. This reduces the efforts devoted to quantification of parameters, so that default values or very rough estimates are sufficient for the least critical parameters.