Normalization

Normalization is a process used in database design to organize tables and attributes, and is a key concept in relational databases. The purpose of normalization is to reduce (or eliminate) the likelihood of certain types of data anomalies occurring during data manipulation operations. This process typically involves the splitting of a database’s tables into smaller, more manageable and related groups.

Normalization is based on the concept of decomposing a database into its smallest possible parts which, in relational databases, is typically referred to as “normal forms”. Normalization is generally carried out in a series of steps. The first normal form is the most basic, and additional normal forms are applied to the database design as deemed necessary.

The three basic tenets of normalization are as follows:
* Eliminating repeating groups by splitting them out into separate tables.
* Minimizing redundancy between tables.
* Isolating data so that multiple attributed-based operations can be done without impacting other parts of the database.

An unnormalized database can lead to problems such as data redundancy, inconsistency, and difficulty with updating and querying the data. Normalization helps avoid such issues by ensuring data consistency, accuracy and integrity.

Most database systems use the relational data model and need to implement normalized designs in order to extend their capabilities. Normalization can improve database performance, reduce storage size, and provide better query response times. For these reasons it is critical that organizations ensure that their databases are properly normalized.