What is the process to review a data model when the reporting requirements are not clear

Hi,

I have been asked to review a data model but the requirements for reporting on top of that are not clear. What is the best strategy to review this kind of model ?

Also what questions should I ask back from the data modeler to ensure that I have covered all the grounds for this scenario

thanks
-anshu

anshumaEngineeringAsked: 2015-06-23

Who is Participating?

[Product update] Infrastructure Analysis Tool is now available with Business Accounts.Learn More

Experts Exchange Solution brought to you by

Enjoy your complimentary solution view.

Get every solution instantly with Premium. Start your 7-day free trial.

I wear a lot of hats...

"The solutions and answers provided on Experts Exchange have been extremely helpful to me over the last few years. I wear a lot of hats - Developer, Database Administrator, Help Desk, etc., so I know a lot of things but not a lot about one thing. Experts Exchange gives me answers from people who do know a lot about one thing, in a easy to use platform." -Todd S.

LVL 80

slightwv (䄆 Netminder) Commented: 2015-06-23

As long as the model is properly normalized, I'm not sure you need to know the reporting requirements ahead of time.

I would review it for proper normalization.

LVL 29

MikeOM_DBACommented: 2015-07-06

. . . the requirements for reporting on top of that are not clear.

What? How can anybody even try and build even the logical (business) model let alone the data-model without clearly defining the requirements?
Seems that project is bound to fail.
Do you even know the purpose or expected goal they want to achieve?
Normalized or not, the model eventually will be implemented as a schema which must reflect a purpose: will the resulting DB model be for support of analytical or transactional data?
You see what I mean?.
I think this link will provide you with some fundamental techniques on reviewing data models: The 10-Minute Data Model Review

Good Luck!
:p

Experts Exchange Solution brought to you by

Your issues matter to us.

Facing a tech roadblock? Get the help and guidance you need from experienced professionals who care. Ask your question anytime, anywhere, with no hassle.

Start your 7-day free trial