I’m still a bit confused regarding the basic principles to use when organizing a database. Here’s a simple example to show what I mean.
My chief interests are writing and educational technology. Many files intersect these areas. Two possible filing strategies occur to me. If we assume that a new file concerning technology to use in writing education is to be filed, this is how things would work out:
-
Have 2 main folders, (i) writing, and (ii) educational technology. Make a replicant, and file the 2 instances in the two folders.
-
Have 2 main folders as above, but also make an educational technology sub-folder in the writing folder. The example file would go in that subfolder only.
The first strategy would tend to have lots of folders at a high level in the database and fewer levels of hierarchy. The second strategy would have a more elaborate hierarchy. In the first strategy, replicants would be the only way of showing intersections of subject areas; in the second, the database creator would be spelling it out through folder structures.
Is there a right or wrong way to do things? And even if it’s personal preference, are there more or less predictable consequences to choosing one strategy over another?