RE: normalization

  • From: Nuno Souto <dbvision@xxxxxxxxxxxx>
  • To: 'Oracle-L Freelists' <Oracle-L@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>
  • Date: Wed, 2 Nov 2005 11:53:35 +0800

Quoting Steve Adams <steve.adams@xxxxxxxxxxxx>:

> You are right.
> If it is a logical data model, then fight for 3NF, if not BCNF.
> But in physical database designs, denormalization should be normative
> if it will improve application efficiency and
> if it will not hinder development and maintenance.
> Just my opinion, of course.
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: oracle-l-bounce@xxxxxxxxxxxxx [mailto:oracle-l-bounce@xxxxxxxxxxxxx] On
> Behalf Of Chris Stephens
> 
> There is a discussion going on at work concerning calculated fields.
> 
> I am claiming that any calculated field in a table is a violation of
> at least 3NF if not 2NF.  I can find all sorts of references on the
> web that justify my position but nothing that directly says this
> violates normalization rules.
> 
> The person who i disagree with is claiming that 'technically',
> calculated fields do not violate 3NF. They are just not recommended. 
> I am unable to find anything on the web coinciding with this argument.
> 
> Anyone know of a site with a direct statement that calcualted fields
> violate 2NF/3NF?

As far as I can recall calculated fields violate 3rd normal form
as they are transitive values.  However, like Steve said:
if it helps speed up access with physical design, then it
is probably fine to use them.  I'd look at using MVs for that
sort of functionality, though.  

-- 
Cheers
Nuno Souto
from sunny Sydney
--
//www.freelists.org/webpage/oracle-l


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