Are data-volume and frequency-of-use statistics critical inputs to physical database design decisions (indexes, partitions, page size, caching)?

Introduction / Context:
Physical design translates logical schemas into storage structures. To choose indexes, partitioning, compression, and caching, designers must understand data volumes and access frequencies.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• High-frequency queries benefit from appropriate indexes and clustering.
• Large tables may require partitioning and compression to remain performant.
• Skewed access patterns affect caching and hot/cold data separation.

Concept / Approach:
Without workload stats, physical design becomes guesswork. Statistics guide decisions that minimize I/O and latency while controlling storage costs.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Collect cardinalities, row counts, growth rates.Profile query patterns (filters, joins, groupings).Choose indexes/partitions aligned with the most frequent and costly operations.Validate choices with explain plans and performance tests.

Verification / Alternative check:
Index/advisor tools in major DBMSs rely on workload captures, reinforcing their criticality.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Limiting importance to logical modeling or OLTP only is incorrect; both OLTP and analytics rely on these stats. Optimizers use stats, but designers must use them too.

Common Pitfalls:
Designing once and never revisiting as volumes and patterns evolve; ignoring seasonality and growth.

Final Answer:
Valid — workload statistics are critical to physical design