Vb6 to C# migration: Normalizing an Old Access Db

Question

My existing application is a visual basic6 and Visual studio c++ based one for the automatic machines like pick and place machine using robots. It have a old database in MS Access where there are only 14 tables. But some of the tables have 90 odd fields and others are mostly independent and separate. I have been given a task to normalize a Access DB efficiently as a part of migrating vb6 to C#.

It is my first time and I have tried to read about it in the web. There were lot of information about the Normalisation and whether it is neccessary. After reading all, I have some confusions as to how to proceed

--> As My db involves mostly select operations, it is better not to over normalize the db, But I have some tables having many fields. The maximum field is 255 in MS access.

Can someone tell me what are the factors I need to know or check before making an efficient reorganization of the Db.? If someone can provide a good source for any practical example for the normalization approach will be greatly helpful.

Answer 1

Database normalization is a complex topic with many different tools and methods available to achieve your goal. As you've pointed out in your question, there are a number of subtle issues to keep in mind, including not over-normalizing because it may have performance consequences. While some automated tools can help you in simple situations, their output often leaves a lot to be desired.

My advice is to spend some time become more familiar with the topic of relational databases in general -- there are literally hundreds of good books (and probably thousands of good web resources) on the topic. There's no substitute for digging in and really understanding the material.

But for a quick look at just the normal forms (which are the foundation of any normalization), this Description of the database normalization basics from Microsoft is a decent introduction to understanding what you're trying to achieve.