In the context of database design, why is it recommended to normalize data and separate software information into its own table rather than including it in a larger table like the example provided?

In database design, it is recommended to normalize data to avoid redundancy and improve data integrity. By separating software information into its own table, you can reduce data duplication and make it easier to manage and update software details independently. This approach also helps in maintaining a clean and organized database structure.

CREATE TABLE software (
    software_id INT PRIMARY KEY,
    software_name VARCHAR(50),
    version VARCHAR(20),
    release_date DATE
);

CREATE TABLE user (
    user_id INT PRIMARY KEY,
    username VARCHAR(50),
    software_id INT,
    FOREIGN KEY (software_id) REFERENCES software(software_id)
);