Being the dedicated database developer and/or administrator that you are, I don't need to remind you that the rigorous application of the principles of sound database design via data modeling is one of the cornerstones of data management. To that end, the emergence of specialized software such as Navicat Data Modeler have made the process much easier to accomplish.

It's been around for some time now, so I have written about it a few times, first in a Database Journal article, and then on the Navicat Blog. Now that version 3.0 is in beta, let's explore what it brings to the table, in particular, these 3 exciting new features:

• Database Synchronization (just like the one found in Navicat Database clients!)
• Dark mode UI option
• Native Linux support

Database Synchronization

One of Navicat Modeler's greatest strengths is its ability to generate DDL (Data definition language) statements to create database objects from a Diagram. Version 3 goes one step further by providing Structure Synchronization that brings the schema of two databases in sync. This is a very useful feature for bringing one or more databases up-to-date with one to which you've applied design changes.

A wizard guides you through the process:

• The first screen is where we choose the source model and target database:
  
  


• The second screen presents a graphical comparison of databases objects as well as the DDL statements and deployment scripts:
  
  


• The next screen shows all of the DDL statements that will be applied to the target database in order to synchronize its structure with the model:
  
  
  At this point you can also set deployment options and even edit the script to suit your exact requirements. From there, you can recompare the target database to your changes, taking into account your manual script edits.


• A detailed message log and process statistics are provided for the script's execution:
  
  

Dark Mode UI Option

A dark theme displays dark surfaces across the majority of a UI, as opposed to the mostly white surfaces of Windows themes. Dark themes have become increasingly popular in recent years, for several good reasons!

• Dark themes reduce the luminance emitted by device screens, while still meeting minimum color contrast ratios.
• They help improve visual ergonomics by reducing eye strain, adjusting brightness to current lighting conditions, and facilitating screen use in dark environments – all while conserving battery power.
• Devices with OLED screens benefit from the ability to turn off black pixels at any time of day.

You can choose between the traditional Windows (light) theme and the new Dark Theme on the General options screen:

After you restart the application, you'll see your new UI theme:

Native Linux support

Whereas previous versions of Navicat Modeler required Wine to run on Linux systems. Wine is a compatibility layer capable of running Windows applications on several POSIX-compliant operating systems, including Linux. Navicat Modeler 3.0 is s true Linux application, so users can now enjoy a UI that better matches those of the Linux system!

Conclusion

Navicat Data Modeler 3.0 adds several exciting features to an already stellar modeling tool. Interested in trying out Navicat Data Modeler 3.0? You can download it here!