Manual Schema Changes
Manual schema changes refer to the process of directly modifying a database schema (e.g., tables, columns, indexes) using SQL commands or GUI tools without automated migration tools. This involves tasks like adding, altering, or dropping database objects to adapt to evolving application requirements. It is a fundamental skill for database administrators and developers working with relational or NoSQL databases.
Developers should learn manual schema changes for scenarios requiring fine-grained control, such as emergency fixes, performance tuning, or legacy system maintenance where automated tools are unavailable. It is essential for database refactoring, data model evolution, and ensuring data integrity during deployments, particularly in environments with strict compliance or complex dependencies.