The seven stages of database design

• Published in: Information today Vol. 8; no. 6; pp. 42 - 44
• Main Author: Griffith, Cary
• Format: Journal Article Magazine Article
• Language: English
• Published: Medford Information Today, Inc 01.06.1991
• Subjects: Analysis; Computerized information storage and retrieval; Computerized subject indexing; Database design; Design; Guidelines; In house; In house systems; Information services; Information services industry; Information storage and retrieval; Information work; Law; Law firms; Legal; Legal research; Library catalogs; Stages; Subject indexing; Systems design; United States > US
• ISSN: 8755-6286; 2169-0340

The traditional notion of what constitutes computer-assisted legal research (CALR) is being redefined. It has become increasingly important to view CALR in a much broader, generic sense. More law offices are making use of powerful personal computers and database applications to create a wide variety of in-house databases, such as timekeeping and billing, calendar-schedule-docket control, case management tracking, litigation support, library catalog, collection, and tax. The design, creation, implementation, and use of in-house databases involves 7 stages or considerations, including: 1. determining whether there is a need to automate the information or processes, 2. determining whether canned applications are available, 3. determining whether someone is available to pursue the project, 4. identifying and documenting information needs, 5. acquiring a generic database management application that is powerful and easy to use, 6. contemplating database design, and 7. providing proper care.