Tutorial on Data Modelling

Tutorial on Data Modelling the Real World

This is my new Tutorial based on a new and unique Approach I am developing.
This page contains my preliminary thoughts, and I would be very pleased to have your Comments.

My Approach is a 'Top-Down' approach, based on understanding a Generic Model that can apply to any situation in the Real World and then applying this Model to the specific area that you are interested in.
In this way, you will learn the underlying principles and be able to think like a Data Modeller.
This Approach is facilitated by a number of 'Off-the-Shelf' Data Models combined with a set of Rules that helps you understand how to extend these Models.
In addition to the Generic Models list below, I have created some for Specific kinds of Real Worlds, including Entertainment and Insurance, which are listed on a separate page.

These are the Steps to follow in my Real World Data Modelling Approach :-
Step 1) Start by understanding the Generic Model of the Real World.
Step 2) Review the Entities shown in the list on this Page and decide which you need.
Step 3) Use the Model Search Page to check the Entities and identify the relevant 'Kick-Start' Models.
Step 4) Print the 'Kick-Start' Models and combine the appropriate Entities to create your own Model.
Step 5) Optionally, forward the results to me for my review.

This Table shows the Generic Entities which I think are adequate to model any aspect of the Real World...

Here is my current Thinking,(please add your comments)

GENERIC THINGS IN THE REAL WORLD, and some EXAMPLES

Addresses	A Generic Approach, used in Customers and Addresses.
Activities	Any Activity involving a group of people, eg Committees and Projects.
Assets	Physical things, that can be seen and touched, like Cars and Equipment.
Events	For example,Athletics Events, Customer Calls, Reservations, and Student Exams.
Parties	Always required, but usually replaced by Sub-Types of Organizations & People.
People	Almost always required, for example, Lawyers and Students.
Products	Shown with Customers, Products and Orders.
Reservations	Here's a Generic Starting Point
Roles	A Party can play a Role, such as Customer.
Services	Shown with Customers, Services and Orders.
Transactions	For example, Credit Card Transactions.