Having started a new job role I find myself in the position of having to get a database designed. I'm in the great position of even knowing what I want it to do !

 I have a very good database guy who appears to talk in an unrecognisable code, and at present I do not have time to learn a great deal about databases, (I'm currently a mediocre Access user)

What I'd like to be able to do is find a glosary of database terms and a general overview of designs, at a high level so I talk to the poor guy without using the technophobe terms of thingy, wottsit etc.

Any able to reccomend a document that can get me started? I tried Access for dummies but was wondering if there is a tool for a non user in position. I'd be happy I could get Dave to stop wincing when I mention starting the definition stage..

I always use Date's The Relational Database Dictionary for this sort of job. Even a hardened database guru will reture in bafflement if you come out with a few rote-learned paragraphs.

You will never lose out by having a knowledge of UML. There are several good books on the subject, and learning the subject is time well spent, even if you merely use the skills to intimidate truculent DBAs