Data
Dictionary
"A repository of data about
data".
A Data Dictionary is a record of information about all data in a system,
database or data model. |
|
It could contain information about:
- Data items
- Data aggregates (groups)
- Records
- Files
- Database schemas, subschemas
- Physical files, databases
- Programs
- Triggers (eg. In MS-Access AutoNum will create a automatic sequence in a new record)
- Inputs outputs (screens, reports, etc.)
- Users and access rights
In theory, a Data Dictionary may be a manual system, but is normally a computer system,
to allow for ease of maintenance, and to interface with other software.
- Basic documentation of data and relationships.
- Standard definitions of data.
- Check for completeness, consistency.
- Control redundancy, multiple use.
- Data specification for systems designers, programmers.
- Means of control for Data Administration.
- Security and audit.
- Interface with other software to provide data description, e.g. compilers, DBMS, Query
languages.
[Rev 10/6/98] 8/6/97 © 1997-98 V/2-Com (Verhaart), P O Box 8415,
Havelock North, New Zealand.
