What is the first step in logical database design?

The first step in logical database design is to design a data model. This process involves defining the structure of the data elements and their relationships, which serves as a blueprint for how data will be stored, organized, and accessed. A well-structured data model helps ensure that the database will meet the needs of users and support the required functionality.

Creating a data model includes identifying the entities involved, attributes for each entity, and the relationships between them, which can later be translated into a physical database schema. This foundational step is crucial because a solid data model will guide all subsequent steps in the database design process, making it easier to ensure data integrity and facilitate efficient data retrieval.

In contrast, while designing a user interface is important for user interaction, it comes after the data model is established. Organizing data structures also occurs later in the process, after the model is formulated. Similarly, creating a data warehouse usually happens in different contexts and is not a step within logical database design itself; it typically relates to data storage and analytics rather than the design phase. Thus, focusing on the data model first allows for a cohesive and structured approach to building a database.