COMPLEX VALUES IN DATABASES
J. H. ter Bekke · 1999
Shortcomings of the relational data model have led to two different approaches for supporting complex values: the object oriented approach, in which they are modeled as a unit and represented as such in the database, and the semantic approach, in which complex values are derived from a simple conceptual structure. This paper contains an overview of the pros and cons of both approaches. An analysis indicates that generally derivation of complex values is superior to modeling and representation of complex values. Keywords: data modeling, object oriented databases, semantic databases, user interfaces, view independence, data independence, knowledge representation. 1 Introduction Classical computer programs use their own data structures. These structures are completely tailored for the program in question; they contain in fact the view required by the program. The approach offers certain advantages because representation and usage of data form a solid unit. This architecture has made it...