8.3. Eliminating Redundancy

Data redundancy commonly occurs when two or more users want to see the same data in different ways. To prevent redundancy, organizations should create and maintain a master database environment rather than propagate one or more subsets of data among its users communities. The latter approach creates an environment that is not only problematic for the organization but for its users and customers.

Views provide a way to eliminate or, at least, reduce the degree of data redundancy. Rather than having the same data exist in multiple forms, views create a virtual and shareable database environment for all. Problems related to accessing and reporting outdated information, as well as table and program change control, are eliminated.