Applying the systems development lifecycle to database management systems

SDLC for Databases

System Development Lifecycle for Database Development

The Systems Development Lifecycle (SDLC)'s eight phases of development begin with an analysis of the users' environment, followed by the development of logical models to represent the data structures. This is followed by the selection of a database management system (DBMS), and the mapping of the logical model of the application to the DBMS. Next the physical mode is developed and evaluated, then tested and tuned until the final system is ready for testing.

Applying the SDLC Model to Database Development

The defining of schema and data structures throughout a database will determine how effectively the completed application will meet the original design requirements. The schema need to predicated on an analysis of the user environment first, ensuring the logical model of the application accurately reflects the needs and requirements of the user (Chenoweth, Schuff, St. Louis, 2003). The development of the logical model is often a highly iterative and collaborative process that takes into account process and system integration points throughout an enterprise. It is also a phase of development that is most attuned to the changing requirements of the user base over time, as this phase must also take into account user requirements and the broader adoption level goals and objectives (Chenoweth, Schuff, St. Louis, 2003). Databases vary significantly in terms of their level of usability and the extent to which their data models align to the specific requirements of a given business process or workflow area as well. The best designed databases have specifically been created to streamline and add significant value to a given series of processes and business strategies throughout a business. Only by using the eight phase of the SDLC, from user environment, through logical model definition and database management selection and optimization, can the SDLC deliver a system that is usable by the departments or groups it is designed for. Defining and evaluating the physical model of the database management system using the SDLC frameworks and reporting frameworks is also critical for ensuring a database management system aligns with specific requirements (Chenoweth, Schuff, St. Louis, 2003).

When the SDLC framework is applied to the SDLC model, the seventh step, that of performance tuning, is also often iterative in nature as prospective users of the new system are given an opportunity use it and see how it meets their needs.