Re: What are cons and pros for using IDENTITY property as PK in SQL SERVER 2000?

"Stijn Verrept" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote in message
news:[EMAIL PROTECTED]
> I've read through this thread but I don't understand it.  I always use an
> int or smallint as primary key, with identity.  I believe it would be a
mess
> otherwise.

Your belief does not alter the correct criteria for choosing a key:
simplicity, familiarity and stability.


> Example: I have a table with people, last name, first name, address, ...
So
> suppose you would make a natural key then you need at least the last name
> and the first name.  I have >25 other tables that reference that table.
If
> I get this right I will need to use the name and firstname field in all
the
> other tables as well to reference.  Isn't that just a lot of data waste?
If
> I'm missing something, please tell me what because this seems a bit silly.

You have constructed a straw man. One anecdote does not demonstrate or
justify a general principle or rule.