Summary

When developing database applications, keep in mind the guidelines presented in this chapter, summarized as follows:

• When naming database objects, use mixed-case names with no spaces or punctuation. For dependent objects, include the name of the supporting object, prefixed with a Hungarian-like token.

• Use the normalization process to develop more structured and efficient relational databases.

• All database objects must be documented in your technical documentation set, specifically in the Resource Kit. Keep the documentation up to date as you make changes in structure or usage.

• In addition to database structures, describe the structures of simpler files (such as text files and spreadsheets) in your Resource Kit.

• Select the appropriate object model to meet your database connectivity needs. If the object model requires any special configuration or connectivity needs, document them in the Resource Kit.

• The primary goal in data presentation is to reduce the control of the user, and to increase the control of the programmer. To this end, avoid Spreadsheet and Bound Field presentations in your application. Instead, use the Form Object presentation to maximize control over the data.