Solution

The correct answer is (D), (B), (C), (A).

Key Points

• Requirement Analysis: This is the initial phase where the requirements of the database are gathered. It involves understanding what data needs to be stored, how it will be accessed, and what constraints and rules must be applied.
• Conceptual Design: In this phase, a high-level data model is created, often using Entity-Relationship (ER) diagrams. This model represents the main data entities and the relationships between them.
• Logical Design: The conceptual model is then translated into a logical model. This involves defining tables, columns, data types, and relationships in a way that can be implemented in a database management system (DBMS).
• Physical Design: The final phase involves creating the actual database schema. This includes defining the storage structures, indexing strategies, and other performance optimizations for the specific DBMS being used.

Thus, the correct order of the phases in database design is (D), (B), (C), (A).

Additional Information

• Following a structured approach in database design ensures that the database will be efficient, scalable, and meet the needs of the users.
• Each phase builds upon the previous one, ensuring that the design is logically sound and physically optimized.
• Skipping any phase or not thoroughly completing a phase can lead to a poorly designed database that may not meet the requirements or perform well.