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casinosqlgal
Starting Member
2 Posts |
 Posted - 2009-10-20 : 20:31:23
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| Hi,I have inherited a legacy database that consists of just 1 table with 3 columns: Date, Value Name, Value ValueMy boss insists that this is normalized because values are not repeated and that this is great design because it allows us to add an unlimited number of values without breaking it. He will not even allow me to present my reasons for wanting to actually design this as a real database (it is a rather complex structure and should be many different tables). Although he did offer to have someone "help me" write a view so that I can transform this into something that I can write numerous reports off of. This was delivered in such a condescending tone that I had to immediately leave his office before I exploded in frustration.Since he will not listen to me on this, I'm wondering if any of y'all know of good links that would be relevent to this topic? I've been googling a bit but haven't found any nicely written web pages attacking this particular "design" technique and its limitations. While I can certainly offer a personal dissertation on it, I'm realizing that for whatever reason, my words aren't worth much so I need some 3rd party backup.And, just to be open-minded, are there any advantages for this type of "design" of which I may be unaware?Thanks! |
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tkizer
Almighty SQL Goddess
38200 Posts |
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robvolk
Most Valuable Yak
15732 Posts |
Posted - 2009-10-21 : 07:27:54
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quote:
I'm realizing that for whatever reason, my words aren't worth much so I need some 3rd party backup
Probably better for you to look for another job, sad to say. I'm not sure why you feel he'll listen to complete strangers rather than you, and if he did, that's even more reason to move on. |
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casinosqlgal
Starting Member
2 Posts |
Posted - 2009-10-21 : 09:21:52
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| Hey y'all,Thanks for the link -- I didn't know the name for that kind of structure so I couldn't figure out what to search to find discussions of it. Thank you!RE: looking for another job: if you know of a perfect job with a perfect boss and perfect pay, sign me up! My boss is normally OK, he just gets really snippy if you question something he's already built. If I can approach him the right way, he can be reasonable. And that is part of the game; how do I communicate to him in a way that he can hear it. But I'm just his subordinate; I don't carry the weight that 'published' authors do -- I don't have any books, papers, or reference websites to my credit. And since he's in a mood where he doesn't want to discuss it, I can't use logic. But I can send links, he can review on his schedule, and then maybe he can change his mind without losing face because it isn't just my little old opinion that he is caving too, but the weight of established experts. Basic human psychology. Thanks again, |
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Explaining Database Basics to My Boss