Hi Erika.

I know this has probably been covered in various postings, but I am wondering if you could point to a good source, or provide your own explanation, identifying the various advantages/benefits of database structures: flatfile vs. relational vs. hierarchical.  An emphasis on the differences between hierarchical and relational would really be appreciated.

Maybe something like a table/spreadsheet with comparison of features,  Features listed in the left hand column and three columns to the right for each of the structure options.

Looking at some type of decision tree to help clarify the options on how to set up Sesame structure.   Would be nice to have some type of summary available to point the varioius tradeoffs.

Information about translating, importing, XLU programming needs, report designs, relational dependencies, etc. would be very helpful.

Possibly the only advantage(s) of a flat file in Sesame is that it can be immediately translated from Q&A?  Easiest to create from scratch for inexperienced database users.

You are correct, there is a lot out there, part of my problem, too much.  And your summary is more brief than I would like (Thanks, I understand your problem).

Of all the info that is out there, could you recommend one or two references/authors for me to look at?  Hate to purchase the wrong stuff.  I am still struggling with my own personal transition from relational to hierarchical, and want to better understand. 

Thanks again for listening.

Thanks, Mark, all help is welcome.  Not yet happy with my comprehension of the background structures.  Won't be happy until I satifsy my own internal levels of understanding.

Thanks for the links jondolar.  Just saw the reply, will take a look at them over the next few days.