Abstract

. We describe the development of a tool, called MDM, for the management of multiple models and the translation of database schemes. This tool can be at the basis of an integrated CASE environment, supporting the analysis and design of information systems, that allows different representations for the same data schemes. We first present a graphtheoretic framework that allows us to formally investigate desirable properties of schema translations. The formalism is based on a classification of the constructs used in the known data model into a limited set of types. Then, on the basis of formal results, we develop general methodologies for deriving "good" translations between schemes and, more in general, between models. Finally, we define the architecture and the functionalities of a first prototype that implements the various features of the approach. 1 Introduction During the past decade, the availability and use of automated tools for the analysis and development of information systems...

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