"Database design" is the term that is commonly used to refer to a wide variety of functions that are associated with database generation within organizations that are involved in the electronic publishing of data or information collections that are intended for search and retrieval or other manipulation by computer. Database design can be interpreted narrowly, broadly, or anywhere in between. This entry uses a broad interpretation; it assumes that design is seldom a one-person effort and may require a team of experts in order to provide the necessary technical, management, human resources, financial, and subject expertise. Design is not a one-time activity even though many people think of it as occurring only prior to the creation of a database. In a broad sense, database design involves the continued improvement of database products. The principal designer or leader of the design team is unlikely to be an...