Database Design for a project requiring data storage is normally the second step in a project. The basic activities envolved in the database design step include: Use Information from the Business Process Exploration Optimize the Storage of Data & How the Data is Interrelated Normalization Documented in Entity Relationship Diagrams using ERWin Port Design to Appropriate Database such as SQL Server, Oracle, MySQL or Access. Planning of Data Extraction, Transformation & Load Utilities (See Data & Systems Migration)
Once a database is established, Database Administration procedures are established to ensure the integrity of the data storage. Database administration can include procedures and implementation for Database Checks, Backups, Recovery and General Maintenance Procedures. Database Administration may be contracted as a stand along task in association with administering an existing database.