Comparison of Data Modeling Tools in Database Development

Abstract

Data modeling is the most important part of designing a database and an entire information system. In the process of creating a relational database, data modeling is crucial because making subsequent changes to the database is undesirable. In the first phase of development, user specifications are gathered to serve as a basis for data modeling. The defined specifications are used to create a data model, which is developed in three basic stages: conceptual, logical, and finally, relational or physical model. While the conceptual model is created "on paper," meaning that the basic entities, attributes, and relationships are sketched out, the creation of the logical model often involves the use of a data modeling tool. Depending on the tool, the logical model can be transformed into a relational model, which is considered part of the physical implementation of the database. When teaching databases and modeling, it is extremely important to choose a tool that is simple enough for students to understand, yet complex enough to be easily applied to real-world systems in practice. This paper presents the process of creating a data model for an employee database using different tools. A comparison of the capabilities and options of various modeling tools is shown, including both free tools and those available for purchase when building a database.