Data Modeling using MS Visio

Let us create a physical data model for our Order Management System from the logical data model we developed in this chapter. Although we will create a physical data model targeting Microsoft SQL Server 2005, you can use the same method to target any database you want.

There are many tools, which allow us to create physical data models. Here are some of them:

• Microsoft Visio, from Microsoft

• ERWin Data Modeler, from Computer Associates

• Toad Data Modeler, from Quest.com

For our example, we will use Microsoft Visio. You can download a 60-day trial version of MS Visio from this link:

http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/visio/default.aspx

After you have downloaded and installed MS Visio, open it by going to Start | Program Files | Microsoft Office | Microsoft Visio Professional. Then select File | New | Database | Database Model Diagram, as shown in the following screenshot:

Once you have selected a database model diagram save it as: OMS_Model.vsd. Next, since we are targeting...