Why is eliminating redundancy important in database design?

Why is eliminating redundancy important in database design?

• A. It complicates data retrieval
• B. It increases storage costs
• C. It enhances data integrity and reduces anomalies
• D. It has no significant impact

Answer: (C)

Eliminating redundancy in database design is crucial because it enhances data integrity and reduces anomalies. When a database contains duplicate data, the risk of having inconsistent or conflicting information increases. For instance, if a customer's address is stored in multiple places and one instance is updated without updating the others, it leads to discrepancies. This inconsistency can result in erroneous reporting, poor decision-making, and an overall deterioration of data quality. By reducing redundancy, a database ensures that each piece of data is stored in one place, which simplifies updates and maintenance. This approach not only helps maintain accuracy and consistency across the database but also streamlines data retrieval processes. When the structure is optimized to minimize duplication, querying becomes more efficient, leading to faster and more reliable access to information. Additionally, lower redundancy contributes to better operational efficiency as it requires less storage space and reduces the likelihood of human error during data entry or updates. Thus, eliminating redundancy is a foundational principle of effective database design that supports data integrity and operational excellence.

Eliminating redundancy in database design is crucial because it enhances data integrity and reduces anomalies. When a database contains duplicate data, the risk of having inconsistent or conflicting information increases. For instance, if a customer's address is stored in multiple places and one instance is updated without updating the others, it leads to discrepancies. This inconsistency can result in erroneous reporting, poor decision-making, and an overall deterioration of data quality.

By reducing redundancy, a database ensures that each piece of data is stored in one place, which simplifies updates and maintenance. This approach not only helps maintain accuracy and consistency across the database but also streamlines data retrieval processes. When the structure is optimized to minimize duplication, querying becomes more efficient, leading to faster and more reliable access to information.

Additionally, lower redundancy contributes to better operational efficiency as it requires less storage space and reduces the likelihood of human error during data entry or updates. Thus, eliminating redundancy is a foundational principle of effective database design that supports data integrity and operational excellence.