A data model is an abstract representation of data structures that are used to organize and manage data in a database or information system. It determines the structure of data elements within an information system and documents the relationships between data elements and how data is retrieved and stored. A data model organizes data elements and standardizes how the data elements relate to one another, representing reality. It represents classes of entities, the attributes of that information, and relationships among those entities and attributes. Data models play a key role in bringing together all segments of an enterprise to cooperatively design information systems.
There are three different types of data models: conceptual, logical, and physical. Each serves a different purpose as you work through the data modeling process, and all three models can and should work independently of each other. A conceptual data model is the most abstract and is used to define the scope of the project. A logical data model is more detailed and defines the relationships between entities. A physical data model is the most detailed and defines how the data will be stored in a database.
In summary, a data model is an abstract model that organizes elements of data and standardizes how they relate to one another and to the properties of real-world entities. It is a visual representation of an enterprises data elements and the connections between them.
