Entity Relationship Modeling
Entity Relationship Modeling (ERM) is a conceptual data modeling technique used to visually represent the structure of a database system. It defines entities (objects or concepts), their attributes (properties), and the relationships between entities, typically using Entity Relationship Diagrams (ERDs). This approach helps in designing relational databases by organizing data requirements before implementation.
Developers should learn ERM when designing relational databases for applications like business systems, e-commerce platforms, or content management systems, as it ensures data integrity and clarity. It is used during the initial planning phase to map out tables, keys, and constraints, reducing errors and improving communication between stakeholders and database administrators.