Database design is the process of defining the structure, storage, and organization of data in a database. It involves creating a blueprint that outlines how data will be stored, accessed, and managed. This includes identifying the types of data needed, their relationships, and how they will be organized into tables and fields. A well-designed database ensures data integrity, reduces redundancy, and improves efficiency. Key components of database design include data modeling, which visualizes data relationships, and normalization, which organizes data to minimize duplication. Effective database design is crucial for applications ranging from small websites to large enterprise systems.