A data model describes how data is represented, structured, and related within an application or database. It defines entities, attributes, and relationships that reflect real-world concepts. Data modeling helps teams reason about how information flows and ensures consistency across APIs, storage systems, and business logic.
Why it matters
A strong data model prevents duplication, improves query efficiency, and clarifies how different features interact. Poor data modeling leads to confusing schemas, bugs, and difficulties scaling the system. Understanding data modeling helps developers design cleaner APIs and more maintainable databases.
Examples
Modeling users, orders, and products in an e-commerce system is a data modeling task. Lessons such as Designing the Data Model walk through practical modeling techniques.