Seeing structure dependencies clearly Which artifact best helps designers understand dependencies among database structures (such as which objects rely on others)?

Introduction / Context:
During maintenance or redesign, we must know how objects depend on each other. Dropping or altering an object without understanding dependencies can break views, functions, triggers, or downstream jobs. Visual tools make this analysis faster and safer.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The schema contains tables, views, materialized views, procedures, and constraints.
• We need to map “uses/depends on” relationships.
• We will use the artifact to plan safe changes.

Concept / Approach:

A dependency graph explicitly draws nodes (objects) and edges (dependencies). Unlike a general ER data model, which focuses on logical entities and relationships, a dependency graph captures executable and compile-time links among database objects, guiding change sequencing and impact analysis.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Most DBMSs expose dependency views (e.g., information_schema, pg_catalog). Visualizing them as a graph quickly reveals clusters and critical hubs.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• B: A data model is valuable but focuses on logical design, not executable dependencies.
• C: “Graphical display” is vague; usefulness comes from explicit dependency edges.
• D/E: Provide insufficient detail for dependency analysis.

Common Pitfalls:

• Confusing ER relationships (business semantics) with executable dependencies (build/run order).
• Ignoring cross-schema or cross-database dependencies.

Final Answer:

A dependency graph.