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What do you do if non-technical stakeholders struggle to understand complex database concepts?

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As a database engineer, you may often face the challenge of explaining complex database concepts to non-technical stakeholders, such as clients, managers, or end-users. How do you communicate effectively with them without losing their attention, confusing them, or oversimplifying the details? Here are some tips to help you bridge the gap between technical and non-technical audiences.

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Break it down with analogies:

Use familiar scenarios to explain database concepts. For instance, liken a database to a library where books represent records and shelves represent tables, making it easier for stakeholders to grasp.### *Visualize the data:Employ charts, graphs, or diagrams to illustrate database structures and functions. This visual approach helps non-technical stakeholders quickly understand complex information and see the bigger picture.

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sushant kumar

Databases and Cloud Technologies |…

1 Use analogies and metaphors

One of the best ways to make complex database concepts more relatable and understandable is to use analogies and metaphors that compare them to familiar or everyday scenarios. For example, you can explain a database as a library, where each book is a record, each shelf is a table, and each section is a schema. Or you can explain a query as a question, where you specify the criteria, the source, and the output. Analogies and metaphors can help non-technical stakeholders visualize the concepts and relate them to their own experiences.

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Munish Sawhney

Lead Technical Specialist | Developing Scalable Solutions
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Simplify language: Use plain language instead of technical jargon. Visual aids: Employ diagrams or infographics to illustrate concepts. Analogies: Relate complex concepts to familiar scenarios. Hands-on demos: Offer interactive demonstrations to clarify understanding. Provide examples: Offer real-world examples to illustrate abstract concepts. Encourage questions: Foster an open environment for clarifications. Offer resources: Provide supplementary materials for further understanding.

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2 Avoid jargon and acronyms

Another common obstacle to effective communication is the use of jargon and acronyms that non-technical stakeholders may not be familiar with or may misunderstand. For example, terms like ERD, SQL, ETL, or normalization may sound like gibberish to them or may have different meanings in other contexts. To avoid confusion and frustration, you should avoid using jargon and acronyms as much as possible, or explain them clearly and concisely if you have to use them. You can also use plain language and common words to describe the concepts and functions of the database.

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sushant kumar

Databases and Cloud Technologies | DevOps | Generative AI adopter and enthusiast | Tech Leader Embracing Emerging Technologies | 1x Azure, 4x OCI certified, 2x AWS certified
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Acronyms can be useless when we share information with non-technical stakeholders. So, we should try to avoid using acronyms. The same goes for tech jargon. Sometimes, if the space constraint pushes us to use acronyms or jargon, we can use "legends", "footnotes", mention full form once and highlight, etc. The whole context can be lost and can be frustrating as well, if we use jargon/acronyms that may not suit the stakeholder's knowledge of the technology. So, we need to get into their shoes while we explain something to them !! ??

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3 Use visuals and examples

A picture is worth a thousand words, especially when it comes to complex database concepts. Using visuals and examples can help you illustrate the concepts and show how they work in practice. For example, you can use diagrams, charts, or graphs to show the structure, relationships, or performance of the database. Or you can use screenshots, mockups, or demos to show the interface, features, or results of the database. Visuals and examples can help non-technical stakeholders see the big picture and the details of the database.

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sushant kumar

Databases and Cloud Technologies | DevOps | Generative AI adopter and enthusiast | Tech Leader Embracing Emerging Technologies | 1x Azure, 4x OCI certified, 2x AWS certified
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From my experience so far, one thing I have learnt, that visual representation grabs a lot of attention and is desired when we send some kind of status or updates. Presenting facts using graphs, dashboards, tabular format for dataset with small rows/columns, screenshots and other visualization tools can help understand the situation in a quicker and better manner. Anything that relates to time, is best represented through graphs. However, we need to learn and understand the right tools for database visualization.

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4 Focus on the benefits and value

Non-technical stakeholders may not care about the technical details of the database as much as they care about the benefits and value it provides for them or their organization. Therefore, you should focus on explaining how the database solves their problems, meets their needs, or achieves their goals. For example, you can explain how the database improves the efficiency, accuracy, or security of the data processing. Or you can explain how the database enables the analysis, reporting, or decision-making of the data insights. Focusing on the benefits and value can help you engage and persuade non-technical stakeholders.

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5 Ask for feedback and questions

Finally, you should always ask for feedback and questions from non-technical stakeholders to ensure that they understand the complex database concepts and that you address their concerns or doubts. Asking for feedback and questions can help you clarify any misunderstandings, correct any errors, or provide more information. It can also help you gauge their interest, satisfaction, or expectations. Asking for feedback and questions can help you build trust and rapport with non-technical stakeholders.

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6 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?

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What do you do if non-technical stakeholders struggle to understand complex database concepts?

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1 Use analogies and metaphors

2 Avoid jargon and acronyms

3 Use visuals and examples

4 Focus on the benefits and value

5 Ask for feedback and questions

6 Here’s what else to consider

Database Engineering

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