What is the best way to document a SQL DB2 data model?

1 Data modeling tools

Using a data modeling tool is one of the simplest and most efficient ways to document a SQL DB2 data model. This type of software application allows you to create, visualize, and manage your data model with graphical diagrams and metadata. Additionally, you can generate your data model from an existing database or make one from scratch with a graphical interface. Data modeling tools also enable you to use standard notations, such as entity-relationship (ER) or unified modeling language (UML), to represent your data model elements and their relationships. Furthermore, you can generate documentation in various formats, like HTML, PDF, or XML, that include comprehensive information about your data model objects, properties, and constraints. You can validate, compare, and synchronize your data model with your database for accuracy and consistency. Lastly, you can collaborate with your team and stakeholders by sharing, reviewing, and commenting on your data model. Numerous data modeling tools exist for SQL DB2 databases; IBM Data Studio, ER/Studio, ERwin, PowerDesigner, and Toad Data Modeler are some of the most popular ones. You can select the one that suits your needs, preferences, and budget.

2 Data dictionary

Creating a data dictionary is another way to document your SQL DB2 data model. This document provides a concise and comprehensive overview of your data model without the need for complex notations or graphical diagrams. It allows you to define the names, definitions, types, sizes, formats, and constraints of your data elements and attributes. You can also document the business rules, assumptions, and validations that govern your data model and ensure its integrity and quality. Additionally, a data dictionary can facilitate communication and understanding of your data model among your team and stakeholders. It can be stored in various formats, such as Excel, Word, or CSV. You may also store it in a database table or a system catalog, such as SYSCAT.COLUMNS or SYSCAT.TABLES, in SQL DB2.

3 Data model comments

Using data model comments in SQL DB2 is a third way to document your data model. These text annotations can be added to data model objects, such as tables, columns, views, indexes, or triggers. There are several advantages to using data model comments. They can provide descriptive and explanatory information that can help you and your team understand the meaning and function of the objects. Moreover, the comments can be accessed and displayed using queries, reports, or tools that support the COMMENT statement or the system catalog. Lastly, they can be updated or deleted easily with the COMMENT statement or ALTER statement. To illustrate this point, you can add a comment to a table with the syntax: COMMENT ON TABLE table_name IS 'comment_text'; You can retrieve the comment using SELECT REMARKS FROM SYSCAT.TABLES WHERE TABNAME = 'table_name'; and update or delete it with COMMENT ON TABLE table_name IS 'new_comment_text'; or ALTER TABLE table_name DROP COMMENT; respectively.

4 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?