What are the best practices for flattening data in databases?

What are the best practices for flattening data in databases?

Flattening data involves transforming nested structures into a single-level format. Key practices include ensuring data integrity, maintaining relationships, and optimizing for query performance.

Can you explain why flattening is important?

Flattening is important because it simplifies data retrieval, improves performance, and makes it easier to analyze and visualize data.

What are some common pitfalls to avoid when flattening data?

Common pitfalls include losing important relationships, creating redundant data, and not considering future scalability.

How can I ensure data integrity while flattening?

To ensure data integrity, validate data before flattening, use constraints, and maintain a backup of the original structure.