[AccessD] Redesign tools

Hi John:

Though this is not a complete solution, I have used an open-source product
called DB Designer4, from FabForce.net at
http://www.fabforce.net/downloads.php

It creates a UML graphic schema of a MS Access/ MS SQL database and I have
used it to find obvious issues and it can even make some structural changes
on the fly. The program has all sorts of features. One will allow you to
enter/edit notes about fields and tables as you go.  

HTH
Jim   

-----Original Message-----
From: accessd-bounces at databaseadvisors.com
[mailto:accessd-bounces at databaseadvisors.com] On Behalf Of jwcolby
Sent: Tuesday, September 11, 2007 2:57 AM
To: 'Access Developers discussion and problem solving'
Subject: [AccessD] Redesign tools

I am about to undertake a ground up redesign of a client's application.
This application has been in service for perhaps 8 years and, while it
functions, it has some serious normalization issues.  Does anyone have any
suggestions for tools for mapping the BE and storing comments on design
issues as I encounter them?  I need to be able to document the problems,
make comments about why I perceive the issue as a problem, and suggestions
on what to do to remove the design problem.  

I also have to preserve the existing data and migrate it to the new
application once complete.

I have performed this task many times in the past, but usually I have done
so on databases designed by "complete amateurs".  This database was actually
designed by someone who apparently knew a lot about normalization but just
didn't get it quite right, and / or the db had tables added which should not
have been implemented as they were.  Thus the basic structure will stand,
and yet there will be areas where entire tables or areas of the database
will be deleted or redesigned to eliminate redundant data etc.

I need a tool to help me document what I will be doing and why.  In the
absence of anything more sophisticated I will be using a simple table of
"table name / field / problem description / solution / implemented" kind of
thing.  I just thought you guys might know of some existing tool to do this.

John W. Colby
Colby Consulting
www.ColbyConsulting.com 

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