Personal computer database development and the end user

Advances in personal computer hardware and software technology have placed enormous computing power into the hands of even the most casual users. More advanced users are beginning to take advantage of sophisticated PC-based database management system products to develop their own databases. Many of these users do not understand the importance of designing sound data structures into their database applications. This paper addresses the problem by outlining a database construction methodology that can be employed by nontechnical users. The methodology focuses on easy-to-follow steps and eliminates references to technical terminology that may confuse the user-developer. The philosophy is that users can apply these techniques to build better databases without understanding terms such as obligatory and non-obligatory membership class, insertion, deletion and update anomalies; first, second and third normal forms, and referential integrity.