The futures of database management

ABSTRACT

This paper explores some futures of database management. A review of the historical development of database management facilities reveals a dichotomy of systems into host-language database management systems for application programmers, and self-contained database management systems for nonprogramming users. Development trends indicate that future systems will combine facilities to serve both the programming and nonprogramming users, will be functionally more complete, and will offer greater data independence and a simpler user interface. The CODASYL Data Base Task Group proposal is the only possible candidate for a standard yet it still presents some serious weaknesses. With the development of systems based upon Codd's relational data model, IBM could become a dominant force in database management systems in the next decade. Emerging technology includes computer architectures with functionally-distinct, asynchronous processors some using associative processing techniques. A separate database management machine can yield better performance and greater data integrity.

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INDEX TERMS

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

Additional Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.2 DATABASE MANAGEMENT
      H.2.0 General

General Terms:
Management, Theory