Towards a formulation and definition of data reorganization

ABSTRACT

Data reorganization can be informally defined as the process of changing the logical and/or physical organization of data so that it can be processed more effectively in a new hardware/software environment. Motivation for data reorganization is presented and examples given. The major issues that were taken into consideration in the formulation of a definition of data reorganization are discussed. These include the scope of the definition and issues of loss of information and data independence. A formal definition of data reorganization is presented and discussed through the use of a four level model of data. The spectrum of reorganization, from logical to physical, is discussed, and examples presented. Finally, the complexity of data reorganization operations is discussed.

REFERENCES

• 1: CORPORATE Codasyl Systems Committee, Introduction to “feature analysis of generalized data base management systems”, Communications of the ACM, v.14 n.5, p.308-318, May 1971 [doi>10.1145/362588.362590]
• 2: E. F. Codd, A relational model of data for large shared data banks, Communications of the ACM, v.13 n.6, p.377-387, June 1970 [doi>10.1145/362384.362685]
• 3: E. F. Codd, "Further Normalization of the Relational Data Base Model," Courant Computer Science Symposia 6, "Data Base Systems," New York City, May 24-25, 1971, Prentice Hall.
• 4: G.H. Mealey, "Another Look at Data," Proc. FJCC 1967, pp. 525-534.
• 5: S. Navathe, "Logical Normal Forms for Data Translation," Submitted for publication to ACM SIGFIDET Workshop on Data Description, Access and Control, January 1974.
• 6: Robert Walker Taylor, Generalized data base management system data structures and their mappingto physical storage, 1971

INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.2 DATABASE MANAGEMENT
      H.2.1 Logical Design
          Subjects: Data models

Additional Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.2 DATABASE MANAGEMENT

General Terms:
Design, Management, Theory