What does "denormalization" imply in database design?

Denormalization refers to the process where normalized database designs are intentionally structured to include redundancy by merging tables or combining related data into fewer tables. This can simplify data retrieval and improve performance, especially in scenarios where complex queries need to be executed frequently. By consolidating data into fewer tables, the need for complex joins may be reduced, leading to faster query responses at the cost of potential redundancy and increased storage requirements.

In many cases, this is done in read-heavy applications where the speed of data retrieval is a higher priority than maintaining a fully normalized structure. When working with denormalized databases, it’s essential to consider the balance between performance and the potential for data anomalies owing to increased redundancy. This understanding of denormalization allows for the design of databases that meet specific application requirements effectively.