What's your process for learning new data modeling and ER diagram trends?

1 Read blogs and books

One of the easiest ways to learn new data modeling and ER diagram trends is to read blogs and books by experts and practitioners in the field. You can find many online resources that cover topics such as data modeling patterns, data warehouse design, data normalization, data quality, and data visualization. You can also browse through books that offer comprehensive and practical guidance on data modeling and ER diagrams, such as The Data Model Resource Book, Data Modeling Made Simple, or Database Design for Mere Mortals.

2 Watch videos and webinars

Another way to learn new data modeling and ER diagram trends is to watch videos and webinars that demonstrate and explain them. You can find many free and paid online courses, tutorials, and presentations that teach you how to use various data modeling and ER diagram tools, such as ERwin, PowerDesigner, Oracle SQL Developer Data Modeler, or Lucidchart. You can also watch videos and webinars that showcase real-world examples and case studies of data modeling and ER diagram projects, such as those from DataEd Online, Data Modeling Zone, or Data Modeling Institute.

3 Join communities and forums

A third way to learn new data modeling and ER diagram trends is to join communities and forums where you can interact with other database developers and data modelers. You can ask questions, share tips, get feedback, and learn from the experiences and insights of others. You can also participate in challenges, contests, and events that test and enhance your data modeling and ER diagram skills. Some of the popular online communities and forums for data modeling and ER diagrams are Stack Overflow, Reddit, Quora, LinkedIn, and Data Modeling Central.

4 Practice and experiment

A fourth way to learn new data modeling and ER diagram trends is to practice and experiment with them. You can use your own data or find datasets online that interest you and apply different data modeling and ER diagram techniques to them. You can also compare and contrast different data modeling and ER diagram methods and tools and see how they affect the performance, quality, and usability of your data. You can also create your own data modeling and ER diagram projects and share them with others for feedback and improvement.

5 Follow experts and influencers

A fifth way to learn new data modeling and ER diagram trends is to follow experts and influencers who are leading and shaping the field. You can follow their blogs, podcasts, social media accounts, newsletters, and publications and learn from their opinions, insights, and recommendations. You can also reach out to them and ask for advice, guidance, or mentorship. Some of the well-known experts and influencers in data modeling and ER diagrams are Steve Hoberman, Graeme Simsion, Len Silverston, Karen Lopez, and Michael Blaha.

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?