The following are steps that are involved in a database design:

ANALYSIS: The process of creating a conceptual data model independent of the target database technology. Resultant is an ER model.

DESIGN: It is the process of creating a logical data model. This step is dependent on the target technology (relational, hierarchical, or network), but not on the specific database implementation (such as Oracle, MS SQL, DB2 for OS/390 or DB2 Universal Database).

IMPLEMENTATION: It is the process of creating a physical model or schema for one specific database system, such as Oracle, MS SQL, DB2. Resultant is an optimized physical design.