1. Database Design and Modeling: Develop a well-structured and normalized database schema based on the application's data requirements. Use entity-relationship diagrams and modeling tools to design an efficient database structure.

2. Database Creation and Configuration: Set up the database environment, create databases, and configure database parameters for optimal performance. Ensure proper storage allocation, file placement, and other configuration settings.

3. Data Integrity and Validation: Enforce data integrity through the use of constraints such as primary keys, foreign keys, unique constraints, and check constraints. Implement data validation rules to ensure that only valid data is stored in the database.

4. Indexing: Design and implement appropriate indexes to optimize query performance. Regularly review and optimize indexes based on query patterns and database usage.

5. Query Optimization: Analyze and optimize database queries to improve efficiency. Use tools like database query analyzers and profilers to identify and address performance bottlenecks in SQL queries.

6. Backup and Recovery: Implement regular backup procedures to safeguard data against loss or corruption. Establish backup schedules, test data recovery processes, and store backups in secure locations.

7. Security Measures: Implement security measures to protect the database and its data. This includes user authentication, access controls, encryption of sensitive data, and auditing to monitor and track database activity.

8. Database Monitoring: Monitor the health and performance of the database in real-time. Track metrics such as CPU usage, memory utilization, disk I/O, and query execution times to identify issues and proactively address them.

9. Replication and High Availability: Implement database replication for redundancy and high availability. This involves creating copies of the database on separate servers to ensure data availability in case of failures.

10. Data Partitioning: Use data partitioning to improve performance and manageability, especially for large datasets. Partition tables based on specific criteria to distribute data across multiple storage locations.

11. Database Upgrades and Patching: Stay current with database software updates and security patches. Plan and execute database upgrades, ensuring compatibility with the application and addressing any potential issues.

12. Database Documentation: Maintain comprehensive documentation of the database schema, configuration settings, and procedures. This documentation is valuable for troubleshooting, onboarding new team members, and understanding the database structure.

13. Database Performance Tuning: Continuously monitor and fine-tune the database performance. This involves analyzing and optimizing database configurations, query plans, and resource utilization for optimal efficiency.

14. Change Management: Implement a robust change management process for database changes. This includes version control for database schemas, tracking changes, and performing thorough testing before applying changes to production databases.

15. Disaster Recovery Planning: Develop and test disaster recovery plans specific to the database. This includes procedures for restoring the database in the event of a disaster, minimizing downtime, and ensuring data integrity.