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DAMA Dictionary of Data Management 2nd Ed
DAMA Dictionary of Data Management 2nd Ed
The DAMA
Dictionary of
Data Management
2nd Edition 2011
The DAMA Dictionary of Data Management is a collection of over 2000 terms, defining a
common data management vocabulary for IT professionals, data stewards and business
leaders.
The Dictionary was developed by members of DAMA International and the larger
international data management community. For content inquiries, please contact
Deborah Henderson at [email protected].
DAMA International and the publisher have exercised care in the preparation of this
document, but make no expressed or implied warranty of any kind and assume no
responsibility for errors or omissions. No liability is assumed for incidental or
consequential damages in connection with or arising from use of the information or
programs contained herein.
Under the support and control of DAMA International, the DAMA International
Foundation is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit entity, whose mission is to foster the
advancement of the data management profession through education, research, and the
construction of standards and best practices. The Dictionary is one example of the effort
to set standards and distribute best practices.
Published by:
Technics Publications, LLC
Post Office Box 161
Bradley Beach, NJ 07720 U.S.A.
www.technicspub.com
Contents
Deborah Henderson
President, DAMA International Foundation,
Toronto, Ontario
March 2011
Acknowledgments
As is consistent with all DAMA International Foundation products, this is a
collaborative work of many professional contributors, who volunteered their time,
expertise, and knowledge to this document. I was merely the wrangler, wrestling the
contents into a workable format, and then managing the incoming flows of contributions
and commentary, a human integration engine managing data from start to finish.
The following individuals volunteered to review the dictionary, and have our thanks:
These individuals not only signed up to review, but added terms and/or quite useful
comments.
I would like to specially mention Gordon Everest, who contributed not only over a
hundred terms and definitions before the review process, but also painstakingly
reviewed each and every item within the review website. Over 200 comments from the
review period were from him alone.
I would like to thank Michael Brackett for his assistance and support in protocols for
publishing. His example during the DAMA-DMBOK editing process and as a major
contributor of almost three hundred terms and definitions, and over 400 comments, are
greatly appreciated.
I also wish to thank Eva Smith for her extraordinary transformation of a spreadsheet
into a multi-page review site on Google Docs in short order. Having that website up with
all terms, and having the ability to comment on and suggest new terms was crucial to
the success of the review process.
Susan Earley
[email protected]
Chicago, IL
March 2011
A review of the question and answer sets in the ICCP specialty exams that are part
of the CDMP program (Data Management Core, Data Development, Data
Warehousing, Business Intelligence & Analytics, Data & Information Quality, Data
Operations, and Zachman Enterprise Architecture Framework2 exams) was
performed in order to keep the definitions and terms in synch with the exam
contents. This resulted in 300 new terms and 25 updated terms. A thorough search
through the DAMA-DMBOK was conducted, resulting in 40 new terms and 30
updated terms, including some citations. A search of relevant websites provided by
Kewal Dhariwal, ICCP Executive Director, was also completed. References within
the dictionary to definitions in the DAMA-DMBOK were also added. Several people
suggested or sent in lists of terms and definitions to add to the Dictionary. Lastly,
an internet search was conducted to find related terms in order to complete the
dictionary. Each definition that has no citation was worded to accurately represent
the term’s meaning, while avoiding copyright issues. The result is a list of terms,
more than double the original size.
Once this process was complete, the dictionary contents were put on a website using
Google docs in order to conduct a peer review. Each entry was on a separate page
allowing for edits and comments to be recorded on the term’s definitions, as well as
allowing suggestions of more entries. Sixty-seven people were added as reviewers,
from an international distribution including the US, Canada, Australia, Turkey,
South Africa, and the Netherlands.
Several terms were proposed that were not included, such as names of
programming languages, and terms more specific to other specialized practices,
such as project management. It is not within the scope of this dictionary to define
specific terms outside of data management.
During the review period, over 450 comments were generated. This process resulted
in more than 1000 changes and 350 new terms. Then the manuscript was prepared
and hyperlinked before being turned over to the publisher for final review and
processing.
The result of all this collaborative work is what you see before you now.
Document Organization
The first section is a complete list of acronyms, with hyperlinks to the proper terms
and definitions.
The actual dictionary is in alphabetical order, although many modified terms have
been grouped for clarity. The common form of the term will have a hyperlink
reference to the grouped term.
Each term may have an acronym and alternate forms, followed by the definitions.
There may be hyperlinks within the definitions to other related or referenced terms.
There are also SEE references from a synonym or alternate form pointing to the
preferred form of the term where it is defined only once.
A
abort
Verb. To terminate a processing activity.
abstract
Adjective. Less specific in representation, or without a relation to a specific instance. Does not mean
'more generalized.' SEE ALSO generalization.
abstraction
1. Generally, a form of representation showing classification (member of), aggregation (part of), or
generalization (is-a). (Smith and Smith, TODS, 1977)
2. In data modeling, the redefinition of data entities, attributes, and relationships by removing details to
broaden the applicability of data structures to a wider class of situations, often by implementing
supertypes rather than subtypes. (DAMA-DMBOK Guide, 1st edition, pg. 97.)
3. In data services, the process of layering virtualization between data and its source. It re-defines the
data attributes or relationships by hiding details of the location, entities, and/or relationships of the
information to broaden the applicability of data structures to a wider class of situations (i.e.:
implementing supertypes rather than subtypes, data access objects, data services, etc.).
abstraction, horizontal
The process of partitioning a model into smaller subparts for presentation. Used in data modeling to
show related areas in a more readable scale.
abstraction, vertical
The presentation of all or part of a model detail. Used in data modeling to show higher levels of
entities and relationships to illustrate the basic subject area contents.
access
1. Generally, the ability to obtain or make use of something.
2. In data management, the operation of reading or writing information.
3. Verb. To obtain or retrieve.
accessibility
The ability to readily obtain data when needed.
accuracy
Freedom from mistakes or error, conformity to truth or to a standard, exactness, the degree of
conformity of a measure to a standard or true value. (Brackett 2011)
accurate
1. Adjective. Complying with a standard, model, or rule.
2. Adjective. Free from defect or error.
activity
1. A contribution to the performance of a function or process. An activity is a lower level process than
a function or process, but higher level than a task or step. Inputs, activities, and outputs combine to
form a process.
2. One of the DAMA Functional Framework Environmental Elements. Each function is composed of
lower level activities, which may be grouped into sub-activities, and then further decomposed into
tasks and steps. (DAMA-DMBOK Guide, 1st edition, pg. 13.)
activity group
In the DAMA-DMBOK Functional Framework, one of four types of activities – either a Planning
Activity, Control Activity, Development Activity or Operational Activity. SEE ALSO activity.
acyclic
1. In general, not cyclic, or not composed of regular cycles.
2. A characteristic of a graph where there exists at most one path between any two nodes. SEE ALSO
connected.
adequate
Adjective. Sufficient for a specific requirement; sufficient or satisfactory; or lawfully and legally
sufficient. (Brackett 2011)
adjective
A type of word that modifies or adds characteristics to a noun.
administrative meta-data
SEE meta-data, administrative.
affinity analysis
An analysis technique that relates occurrences of activities by individuals or groups. Market basket
analysis is a type of affinity analysis.
affinity diagram
SEE chart, affinity diagram.
age
The length of time that an entity has existed, or in the case of an organic entity, lived.
aggregate data
Data resulting from processes that combine and summarize atomic data.
aggregation
1. Generally, the process of gathering into a whole from parts.
2. In data management, a process that transforms atomic data into aggregate-level information by using
an aggregation function such as count, sum, average, standard deviation, etc.
alert
The notification of an event, usually exceeding a pre-defined threshold.
algorithm
A set of rules or steps that will result in a defined end from a defined start.
alias
1. Generally, an alternative reference to a standard name or term.
2. In RDBMS, a database object that indirectly references another database object, for example, an
abbreviated table reference within an SQL query.
3. In a distributed environment, an object that refers to another object to avoid having to use the full
location qualifier of the other object. This alias is not dropped if the object referred to is dropped.
alpha release
The first version of something released to a formal testing team.
alternate key
SEE key, alternate.
ambiguity
Uncertainty in meaning or reference, depending on the context or usage. An ambiguous reference
may have multiple meanings in the absence of context or usage specifications.
amount
A class word, abbreviated usually to amt.
analog signal
A signal that is represented by an oscillating wave rather than digital pulses.
analysis
Separation of the whole into its parts; an examination of a complex, its individual parts, and their
relations; the separation of the ingredients of a substance; a statement of the constituents of a
mixture. (Brackett 2011) SEE ALSO synthesis.
analyst
A person who performs analysis or is skilled in analysis. SEE ALSO business analyst; business
systems analyst; data analyst; systems analyst.
analytic application
Software that packages Business Intelligence technology to support a specific knowledge-driven
business process.
analytical data
SEE data, analytical.
analytical framework
The system of criteria and standards within which data are analyzed.
analytics
Business Intelligence procedures and techniques for exploration and analysis of data to discover and
identify meaningful information and trends.
anamorphic map
SEE chart, area cartogram.
ANSI SQL
The standard form of SQL concurrently defined by ANSI and ISO and first released in 1986. Most
recent version of the standard (SQL:2008) dates from 2008.
applet
A small Java program that can be embedded in an HTML page. Applets cannot access certain
resources on local computers, such as files and serial devices. Applets are also prohibited from
communication with most other computers across a network.
applicability
1. Relevant to the current subject.
2. Ability to be put to specific use.
application
In computing, software functions and services implemented together to support one or more related
business processes.
application architecture
1. SEE architecture, application portfolio.
2. SEE architecture, application component.
3. SEE architecture, system.
application DBA
SEE DataBase Administrator, application.
Copyright © 2011 by DAMA International. All rights reserved. page 15
application development
1. The process of building and maintaining software applications.
2. Commonly, the IT organization responsible for application development. Synonymous with Software
Development or Software Engineering.
application server
In a three-tier application architecture, the middle tier of software (and possibly hardware) where
business logic is performed.
approach of no coupling
A programming technique where each module is independent: has no dependency on, is unrelated to,
and does not communicate with, all other modules.
appropriate
Adjective. Especially suitable or compatible; fitting. (Brackett 2011)
arc
1. In graph theory, a connection between two nodes in a graph. Also known as an edge.
2. In trigonometry, a curved line.
architect
1. Generally, a person trained in the planning, design, and oversight of the construction of something,
usually buildings.
2. In information technology, an experienced and skilled designer responsible for architecture
supporting a broad scope of requirements over time beyond the scope of a single project. The term
implies a higher level of professional experience and expertise than an analyst, designer, modeler, or
developer.
Architects as Designers
Zachman Framework row name, matches System Logic.
architectural framework
A way of thinking about and understanding architecture and the structures or systems requiring
architecture.
architecture
1. Generally, the design of any complex object or system, including the implied architecture of abstract
things such as music or mathematics, the apparent architecture of natural things such as geological
formations or living things, or explicitly planned architecture of human-made things such as
buildings, machines, organizations, processes, software and databases.
2. In data management, the organized arrangement of components to optimize the function,
performance, feasibility, cost, and/or aesthetics of an overall structure.
3. In common use, the art and discipline of designing buildings and structures, from the macro-level of
urban planning to the micro-level of creating furniture and machine parts.
architecture, business
The portion of an enterprise architecture that describes organizational goals, roles, reporting
structures and locations, but excluding the enterprise data architecture, process architecture,
technology architecture and application architecture. The business architecture includes those
artifacts identified in rows 1 and 2 of the Zachman Framework, but limited to columns 4, 5 and 6.
architecture, client/server
A distributed technology approach where application software processing is divided by function.
Servers perform shared functions such as processing business rules, managing communications,
managing databases, or providing print services. Clients performs individual user functions --
providing customized interfaces, performing screen to screen navigation, offering help functions, etc.
Client and server software may reside on the same hardware platform, but each component is
designed to be distributed across a networked environment for efficiency.
architecture, closed
An architecture where only the original manufacturer can make add-ons and peripherals.
architecture, data
1. In common usage, the physical technology infrastructure supporting data management, including
database servers, data replication tools, and middleware.
2. The method of design and construction of an integrated data resource that is business driven, based
on real-world subjects as perceived by the organization, and implemented into appropriate operating
environments. It consists of components that provide a consistent foundation across organizational
boundaries to provide easily identifiable, readily available, high-quality data to support the current
and future business information demand. (Brackett 2011)
architecture, enterprise
1. Generally, an integrated collection of models and design approaches used to align information,
processes, projects, and technology with the goals of the enterprise. These high-level design artifacts
typically describe target views of the enterprise. Enterprise architecture may include:
a) an enterprise data model,
b) related data integration architecture,
c) a business process model,
d) an application portfolio architecture,
e) an application component architecture,
f) an IT infrastructure technology architecture,
g) an organizational business architecture, and
h) the enterprise information value chain analysis that identifies the linkage and alignment across
these perspectives, and to enterprise goals.
2. Other models and other forms of architecture may also be included within the enterprise
architecture.
3. In the Zachman Framework, the enterprise architecture generally includes design artifacts identified
in Rows 1 and 2 (conceptual views of data, process, locations, events, roles and goals), the value
chain analysis describing the linkages between these perspectives, and high-level decisions about how
to implement technology supporting these concepts in an integrated manner.
4. An initiative to describe comprehensively the architectures in an organization. It describes the
terminology, composition, and relationships within each architecture, the relationships between
architectures, and the relationships with external organizations. It includes business goals, business
processes, hardware, software, data, and information systems. (Brackett 2011)
architecture, information
The analysis and design of the data stored by information systems, concentrating on entities, their
attributes, and their relationships.
architecture, in-memory
An architecture that uses flash memory rather than conventional disk storage.
architecture, meta-data
The design for integration of meta-data across data dictionaries, directories, and repositories.
architecture, open
The published specifications for a computer by a vendor, allowing other companies to create add-ons
to enhance and customize the machine, and to make peripheral devices that work properly with it. In
practice, has been difficult to engage on a corporate basis due to the risk involved in a source that has
multiple editors and has little to no assurance of quality when in use. Outsourcing the risk to a
second party who then use the open source and accept the liability for the code is then the way to
engage with open source code.
architecture, process
1. The structural design of process systems, such as computers, businesses, or other complex systems.
2. The first two rows of the “function” column of the Zachman Framework for Enterprise
Architecture:
Row 1: Objectives/Scope (contextual) – Planner View: a list of processes important to the business
(may be a hierarchical list outlining a functional decomposition of processes)
Row 2: Enterprise Model (conceptual) – Owner View: a business process model (process flow
diagrams, sometimes called data flow diagrams, showing the flow of data and other business
resources between processes as inputs and outputs).
a) Enterprise process architecture typically includes
b) a functional decomposition,
c) process flow diagrams, and
d) value chain analysis linking processes to data (subject areas or entities), organizations, roles,
goals, applications, and/or projects.
3. Includes functions, activities, workflows, events, cycles, products, and procedures. DAMA-DMBOK
1st edition, pg. 66.
architecture, product
Part of a technology architecture, identifying selected vendor-specific software tools and services.
Although not implied in the name, it may also include industry-wide standards and protocols.
architecture, system
Includes applications, software components, interfaces, and projects. DAMA-DMBOK 1st edition,
pg. 66.
architecture, technology
The master plan for the IT technical infrastructure depicted in diagrams and specifications of
hardware and system software products, locations, configurations, standards and adopted protocols,
along with linkages of computing platforms and/or servers to existing and planned applications and
databases. Includes diagrams and specifications of the kinds described in Column 3 (“Network”) of
the Zachman Framework.
architecture, three-tier
A structure for a database environment consisting of a presentation tier, an application tier, and a
data tier. The presentation tier is the one seen and used by the programmers and other users of a
DBMS, also called the user schema, or the external schema. Presentation tiers can overlap. The
application tier is the combination of all the defined structures in the presentation tier for a given
database, also called the logical tier, data access tier, or middle tier. There may be additional data in
the application tier that is not in any presentation tier. The data tier is the database administrator's
view of the database, also called the internal schema. The data tier is the definition of the physical
storage structure of a database.
archival database
SEE database, archival.
archive
1. A copy of a database or documents preserved in a secondary, lower cost storage location, for
infrequent historical reference and/or recovery.
2. Verb. To move stored data (structured or unstructured) to a secondary, less readily accessed location,
at lower storage costs, for historical reference and/or recovery.
area cartogram
SEE chart, area cartogram.
area chart
SEE chart, area.
argument
SEE parameter.
argument slide
SEE chart, argument slide.
arity
In object role modeling, the number of objects t a role in a predicate, or relationship. SEE predicate.
SEE ALSO n-ary.
array
A grouping of similar items of the same storage type in a sequential pattern, and referenced by a
sequential index value. SEE ALSO matrix.
artifact
An object made or modified by a human.
asset
1. Generally, something that has value or produces benefit.
2. In accounting, something of value on a balance sheet.
asset condition
Asset condition describes how an asset or a service will perform in objective and measurable terms.
The measurement is sometimes as simple as assigning a number. An example would be a range of 1
to 5, where one = poor and five = excellent.
asset, intangible
Non-physical assets, such as accounts receivable.
asset, tangible
Physical assets, such as equipment.
associate
Verb. To determine relationships between entities, including characteristics of the relationship:
dependent or not (optional, orphan), exclusive (at most one) or not (multiple). SEE ALSO
relationship.
association
1. SEE relationship.
2. In statistics, any relationship between measured quantities that shows a statistic dependency.
3. In object-oriented programming, a relationship between object classes which enables an object
instance to perform an action on another's behalf.
associative entity
SEE data entity, associative.
asynchronous
Adjective. Describes a style of communication in which the initiator does not wait for a reply.
Opposite of synchronous.
asynchronous replication
Data replication where the target database is updated as soon as possible after updates occur to the
source database, but not as part of a single integrated transaction. Failure to update the target has no
impact on the source database. Sometimes referred to as “near real time” replication.
atomic data
1. Data at the lowest chosen level of detail (granularity). The level of detail chosen depends on the
information requirements of the enterprise. For example, address could be one atomic item, or
address could be split into further composite items such as house identifier and city. Opposite of
aggregate data.
2. Non-aggregated observations, or measurements of characteristics of individual units, which cannot
be further decomposed and retain any useful meaning.
Atomicity-Consistency-Isolation-Durability (ACID)
Standard properties of relational databases.
attribute
An inherent characteristic, an accidental quality, an object closely associated with or belonging to a
specific person, place, or office; a word ascribing a quality. (Brackett 2011)
attribute class
SEE class, attribute.
attribute generalization
SEE generalization, attribute.
attributed relationship
SEE relationship, attributed.
attributive entity
SEE data entity, dependent.
audit
A formal and official verification of validity, accuracy, and conformance to requirements, regulations,
standards, and/or guidelines.
audit trail
Data maintained to trace activity, such as a transaction log, for purposes of recovery or audit.
augmentation
1. The process of adding to something to make it more or greater than the original.
2. In logic, a relationship where if X leads to Y, then XZ will lead to YZ.
authentication
1. In data security, the process of verifying whether a person or software agent requesting a resource
has the authority or permission to access that resource.
2. In data quality, the process of verifying data as complying with what the data represents.
authoritative source
A source of data or information that is recognized by members of a Community of Interest to be
valid or trusted because its provenance is considered highly reliable or accurate. During the life cycle
process, the authoritative source (or system of use in which it is housed) can evolve according to use.
Subject Matter Experts validate that the data is authoritative, and Data Management assures that data
from the authoritative source is provided to users, and that it is current.
authorization
In data security, the granting of authority allowing a person, group, or software agent to access a
resource.
authorization request
In data security, a request to grant authority to a person, group, or software agent to access data for
which the data consumer does not presently have access privileges.
authorization rule
SEE rule, authorization.
automation
The act of replacing control of a manual process with computer or electronic controls.
availability
1. The percentage of time a system or data resource is accessible compared to the time it is expected to
be accessible.
2. The percentage of time a system or database can be used for productive work. DAMA-DMBOK
Guide, 1st edition, pg. 134.
B
Bachman diagram
Named after Charles Bachman, shows data using network or relational models. Also called a data
structure diagram.
backup
1. Verb. To take a snapshot copy of a system to ensure its continued availability in the event of a
hardware or software failure requiring recovery of the database to restore the data.
2. The copy of the system information and data used for recoverability.
backup, cold
A backup snapshot taken while the system is offline.
backup, hot
A backup snapshot taken while the system is online.
backward recovery
SEE recovery, backward.
backwards compatible
1. Adjective. Able to accept input from older or earlier versions of a device or software.
2. Adjective. Operational on older technology, even if limited in functionality.
bandwidth
The rate of transfer of data over a specific channel. SEE ALSO capacity.
bar chart
SEE chart, bar.
base table
1. In Data Warehousing, the normalized data structures maintained in a Data Warehouse, in contrast to
the de-normalized dependent data mart tables sourced from the base tables.
2. Outside of Data Warehousing, a table for an entity that is not dependent on any other entity in the
database.
base unit
The unit used as the basis of an index number, or to which a constant series refers, examples; base
period, base weight, base currency
Basel Accords
International banking supervision standards designed to ensure the liquidity of financial institutions
doing business in European Union countries. Developed by the Basel Committee on Banking
Supervision, and implemented in 2006 as Basel II New Accords. Basel III is currently under
development.
behavior
What something does at any point in time. The execution or carrying out of a process constitutes
behavior. Behavior is something that happens, as opposed to something that is. Opposite of state.
believability
Confidence in inherent truthfulness.
bell curve
A statistical frequency distribution pattern that is shaped like a bell (narrow at ends, wide in the
middle of the range). SEE ALSO normal distribution.
benchmark
A point of reference for measurement, comparison, and evaluation. A benchmark can be a standard
of excellence or a point-in-time snapshot measurement for comparison with other benchmarks. A
benchmark may be an internal or external measurement.
benchmarking
Verb. To analyze and compare an organization’s processes (an internal benchmark) against the
performance to those of another organization or against an industry standard (an external
benchmark).
best practice
A technique, method, process, discipline, incentive, or reward generally considered more effective at
delivering a particular outcome than by other means.
beta release
A release of software to a limited population under controlled conditions, to test for functionality
completeness and execution correctness.
bias
1. Generally, a distortion of something to support a particular view.
2. In data analysis, a distortion of data or information that affects the interpretation, or a distortion of
interpretation that supports a particular view.
bias, collection-based
A distortion of fact interpretation based on sole use of data provided by or pre-selected by the
sponsor of the research, which may be skewed toward a certain result, rather than being completely
objective.
bias, sampling
A distortion of fact interpretation due to non-random selection of sample contents.
bias, search-based
A distortion of fact interpretation based on sole use of data that supports the desired outcome, rather
than a complete data set.
bias, use-based
A distortion of fact interpretation by only using the results that support the desired outcome, and
ignoring or not displaying the other results.
bi-directionally named
Adjective. Using a naming convention for binary relationships where the relationship is described
twice, in sentences, once with one entity named as the subject paired with the other entity as the
object of a sentence, and the other in reverse order.
big data
Data volumes that are exceptionally large, normally greater than 100 Terabyte and more commonly
refer to the Petabyte and Exabyte range. Big data has begun to be used when discussing Data
Warehousing and analytic solutions where the volume of data poses specific challenges that are
unique to very large volumes of data including: data loading, modeling, cleansing, and analytics, and
are often solved using massively parallel processing, or parallel processing and distributed data
solutions.
bilateral exchange
1. Generally, an exchange of something between a sending organization and a receiving organization
where all aspects of the exchange process are agreed between counterparties.
2. In data management, an exchange of data and/or meta-data between a sending organization and a
receiving organization where all aspects of the exchange process are agreed between counterparties,
including the mechanism for exchange of data and meta-data, the formats, the frequency or schedule,
and the mode used for communications regarding the exchange.
bill-of-material
A list of raw materials down to the atomic level necessary to create a final item.
binary
1. Adjective. Consisting of two components or values.
2. The format of a compiled and linked program that is ready to execute on a specified system.
binary relationship
SEE relationship, binary.
bitmap index
SEE index, bitmap.
block index
SEE index, block.
blocking
The situation where one process locks a resource that another resource needs. The second resource
is 'blocked'.
blog
A type of website containing regular entries of commentary, notes on events, or links to graphics or
video. Short for 'web log'.
bookmark
A marker used to save a place in a book, a data set, or an Internet address.
Boolean
Adjective. Relating to or of an algorithm or calculation that results in only a True or False result.
Named for George Boole.
Boolean operator
Logical operators that combine propositions to evaluate to only a True or False result. Includes
AND, OR, IF THEN, EXCEPT, and NOT.
Boolean search
A search method using Boolean operators (AND, OR, NOT) to focus the search.
Boston Consulting Group matrix (BCG) Alternate forms: BCG matrix, Boston box
SEE chart, portfolio.
braking mechanism
In databases, a software function that prevents users from querying a database once transaction loads
reach a certain level.
brick
In architecture, a common term for technology architecture components. (DAMA-DMBOK Guide,
1st edition, pg. 140.)
bridge table
SEE table, bridge.
Copyright © 2011 by DAMA International. All rights reserved. page 29
b-tree index
SEE index, b-tree.
bubble chart
SEE chart, bubble.
bullet chart
SEE chart, bullet.
bus architecture
SEE data warehouse bus architecture.
bus matrix
In Data Warehousing, a tabular representation of the intersection of shared dimension tables with
data subject areas, data processes, data facts, data marts, etc.
business
1. Generally, any purposeful activity.
2. Specifically, a commercial or industrial enterprise. Commercial activity engaged in as a means of
livelihood.
business activity
A set of methods or procedures that may be executed in the form of transactions relative to a
business. SEE ALSO activity; business process.
business analysis
1. The study of business processes, practices and business systems requirements.
2. The application of information to better understand business opportunities and challenges. SEE
ALSO Business Intelligence.
business analyst
1. Generally, a knowledge worker responsible for interpreting data, performing calculations, and
distributing reports to other knowledge workers.
2. In data management, a professional responsible for understanding the business processes and the
information needs of an organization, for serving as a liaison between IT and business units, and
acting as a facilitator of organizational and cultural change. Also known as a business systems analyst
or systems analyst.
business analytics
Meta-data that includes data definitions, report definitions, users, usage statistics, and performance
statistics.
business architecture
SEE architecture, business.
business case
A structured format for organizing the reasons, benefits, and estimated costs for initiating a project
or program.
Business Concepts
Zachman Framework row name, matches Executive Leaders as Owners.
business continuity
The degree of uninterrupted stability of an organization’s systems and operations in spite of
potentially disruptive events.
business data
Data about people, places, things, rules, events, or concepts used to operate and manage any
enterprise (not just commercial enterprises). Used to identify data that is not considered to be meta-
data.
business entity
SEE entity, business.
business event
A happening in the real world, such as a sale, purchase, fire, flood, accident, and so on. (Brackett
2011)
business feature
A trait or characteristic of a business object or business event, such as a customer's name, a city
population, a fire date, and so on. (Brackett 2011)
business key
SEE key, business.
business meta-data
SEE meta-data, business.
business model
A current or future state representation of some aspect of an enterprise, typically from a process,
data, geographic, event, organizational or financial perspective.
business object
A person, place, thing, or concept in the real world, such as a customer, river, city, account, and so
on. (Brackett 2011)
business process
A process that is intended to contribute to the overall value of an enterprise. The complex
interactions between people, applications, and technologies designed to create customer value. A
process is composed of activities.
business professional
A knowledge worker, manager, or executive.
business requirement
SEE requirement, business.
business rule
SEE rule, business.
business transaction
An event involving the exchange of products, money, and/or information.
Business-to-Business (B2B)
Commerce transactions between equivalent businesses, such as between a wholesaler and a retailer.
Business-to-Consumer (B2C)
Commerce transactions between a business and a consumer, such as in a retail sale.
Business-to-Government (B2G)
Commerce transactions between a business and a governmental body, such as between a business
and an elected water commission.
byte (b)
1. A single character of data stored electronically in 16 binary bits. A datum.
2. The term originally coined by IBM with the announcement of the 360 series of computers in 1974.
Originally consisted of 8 bits, and could be used to store a single character, digit, or two decimal
digits (“packed decimal”), or in combination could be used to store numbers. ASCII and EBCDIC
are the two dominant character coding schemes based on 8 bits.
C
C4.5 algorithm
Ross Quinlan's algorithm to generate decision trees for classification.
cache hit
A state when a data request can be supplied from data within a cache, rather than directly from disk
storage.
call center
The part of an organization that handles inbound/outbound telephone or email communications
with internal and/or external customers. An IT help desk is a call center for customers of the IT
department.
campaign management
Detailed tracking, reporting, and analysis that provides precise measurements regarding current
marketing campaign efforts, their performance, and the types of leads they attract.
candidate key
SEE key, candidate.
candlestick chart
SEE chart, candlestick.
canon
An accepted principle or role; a body of principles, rules, standards, or norms. (Brackett 2011)
canonical
Adjective. Conforming to a general rule or acceptable procedure reduced to the simplest and cleanest
scheme possible. (Brackett 2011)
canonical model
A data model of the inherent structure of data without regard to applications, hardware, or software
implementations. Built according to specific canons. Usually a result of canonical synthesis.
canonical synthesis
The concept that if everyone followed the canons (rules) for developing a data model, then those
independent data models could be readily plugged together, just like a picture puzzle, to provide a
single, comprehensive, organization-wide data architecture. (Brackett 2011)
capacity
The maximum amount that can be held, contained, or processed at one time.
cardinal number
A number measured on a scale with an arithmetically meaningful zero point. Generally used to
measure quantities or volumes. Can be manipulated by all the binary operators: exponentiation,
multiplication and division, addition and subtraction, comparison (e.g., less than), matching, and
Boolean. SEE ALSO ordinal number; interval number; nominal number.
cardinality
The number of entities or members in a set.
Cartesian
Adjective. Related to the philosophy or mathematical method put forth by René Descartes.
Cartesian coordinates
The use of a set of points on a set of axes in order to show location or proximity.
cartogram
SEE chart, cartogram.
cartography
The study and practice of making maps or globes. Maps function as visualization tools for spatial
data. Most quality maps are now made with geographic information system (GIS) software and
databases.
cascade chart
SEE chart, cascade.
cascade delete
The declaration made on a hierarchical (1:M) relationship between parent and child, that a request to
delete a parent instance will also result in deleting the related child instances. Usually associated with
a foreign key (which defines a hierarchical relationship), with the referring entity table (where the
foreign key is stored) being the child and the referenced entity table is the parent.
case study
An evaluation of an instance of a process to determine what environmental or inherent attributes
drove success or failure of the process.
catalog
1. Generally, a complete list of things, usually arranged systematically.
2. In databases, the component of a DataBase Management System where meta-data about DBMS
objects is stored. Most relational DBMS products keep the catalog as relational tables. The majority
of meta-data in a DBMS catalog is technical meta-data (names, types, lengths, occurrences, keys, etc.)
collected automatically by the DBMS software, although business definitions can be added as
comments. A catalog is an active data dictionary.
category
The generic term for items at any level within a classification.
category scheme
Scheme made up of a hierarchy of categories, which may include any type of useful classification for
the organization of something.
cause-effect chains
SEE chart, cause-and-effect diagram.
cell
1. Generally, any small compartment.
2. In multi-dimensional design, a data point defined by one member of each dimension of a multi-
dimensional structure. Often cells in multi-dimensional structures are empty, leading to 'sparse'
storage.
central-point cartogram
SEE chart, distance cartogram.
certificate
1. A token of authorization or authentication.
2. In data security, a computer data security object that includes identity information, validity
specification, and a key.
certification
The process of reviewing something to verify it meets established standards.
certified data
Passed data quality review, certifying it meets established standards.
chain of custody
The documentation of ownership of something, from capture, through possession, storage, and
management, to disposition. This is especially important for compliance documentation. SEE ALSO
data provenance.
chaining
1. Verb. To connect a series of commands or responses.
2. In cryptography, a method of encryption where each block defines or contributes to the encryption
of the following blocks.
change control
The process of coordinating changes to a system, to minimize change-related errors and therefore
improve data quality and system availability. Proposed changes need to be reviewed and evaluated for
related impacts, grouped and scheduled, implemented and migrated through various test
environments before being implemented into the production environment. Database change control
disciplines are a very important responsibility of database administrators.
characteristic
1. A distinguishing feature or quality. (dictionary.com based on Random House Dictionary)
2. Adjective. Pertaining to, constituting, or indicating the character or peculiar quality of a person or
thing; typical; distinctive. (dictionary.com based on Random House Dictionary)
3. An abstraction of a property of an object or of a set of objects.
characteristic entity
SEE data entity, dependent.
chart
A visual representation of data, using shapes, colors, symbols, graphs, images, tables, diagrams, etc. to
show patterns, relationships, or ideas, that makes it easier to understand, or gives context to create
some form of information.
chart, area
A chart showing multiple lines from left to right, each which define the top line of an area within the
chart. The areas are marked with colors, textures, and/or hatching. The areas may be overlapping or
stacked.
chart, bar
A chart that shows bars to illustrate frequencies or values for individual categories.
chart, bubble
A chart showing two dimensions on horizontal and vertical axes, and a third dimension in the size of
the points.
chart, bullet
A variation of the bar chart, these feature a single, primary measure, compared to one or more other
measures, such as a target or a quantitative scale, and displayed in qualitative ranges (poor, fair, good,
etc.) by using variations of hue for a single color (which is helpful for colorblind eyes). These long
narrow graphs can be grouped to save space, especially on web forms or dashboards.
chart, candlestick
A chart showing bars representing range of value change within a point's time interval.
chart, cartogram
A chart consisting of a geographic map modified to show some measurement of the map's area,
contents, or qualities. Modifications can be to color or to proportional size. There are two types, area
cartograms and distance cartograms.
chart, cascade
A chart with the X-axis showing a unit of measure and the Y-axis showing a rate per unit. Boxes
show the result of X units x Y rate for a specific segment, such as customer. Tall thin boxes above
the X-axis are desirable, long short boxes above the X-axis are less desirable, boxes below the X-axis
are undesirable.
chart, control
A graphical device for tracking process performance over time.
chart, coxcomb
SEE chart, polar area.
chart, funnel
A form of visualization where inputs are drawn entering through the large end of a funnel, and
outputs are drawn leaving the small end.
chart, Gantt
A horizontal bar chart used in project management; a graphical illustration of a schedule that helps to
plan, coordinate, and track specific tasks in a project. Named for Henry Gantt.
chart, hype-cycle
A form of visualization that divides the process of adoption of something into five cycles: Trigger,
Peak, Trough, Slope, and Plateau.
chart, Kagi
A chart showing movement of a value regardless of time, based solely on some time-independent
criteria.
chart, layer
Shows the decomposition of some object or system by exposing internal layers sequentially.
chart, line
A chart that shows ordered points connected by a line to show trends.
chart, organization
A form of visualization showing the structure of an organization using trees and levels to show
relative hierarchies of teams or individuals.
chart, Pareto
A chart showing both bars and a line, where the line shows the cumulative total of the individual bars
going left to right.
chart, perspectives
A form of visualization resembling looking down into a box, with the floor of the box being the
main topic, the left and right sides representing positive and negative input or experiences, the lower
side representing prior knowledge or experience, and the top side representing open questions or
issues.
chart, pie
A chart that shows percentages as sectors (slices) of a circle, resembling a pie.
chart, portfolio
A quartered plot chart used most frequently to determine priorities in business, using growth rate on
one axis and market share as the other. Creates four categories: stars (high growth and market share),
cash cows (low growth, high market share), dogs (low growth and market share), and question marks
(high growth and low market share).
chart, radar
A chart representing three or more quantitative values represented on radial axes of a circle.
chart, sequence
A representation of the time sequence of objects participating in a process over time. Swim lane
diagrams are a form of sequence diagram.
chart, snaky
A specific type of flow diagram in which the width of arrows is proportionate to the flow quantity or
size.
chart, spectrogram
A form of visualization using time-varying image that shows the spectral density of a signal over
time, using horizontal axis as time, vertical axis as frequency, and hue of the representation as
amplitude.
chart, timeline
A chart showing a horizontal line or bar containing points labeled with dates and/or events.
chart, tree
A method of representing a hierarchical set of data in a graphical form, with fewer nodes at the either
the top (i.e., descendent genealogy) or bottom (i.e., ancestor genealogy).
chart, waterfall
A chart that shows cumulative effects of sequentially applied values.
check digit
An extra digit added to a computer code to check accuracy, calculated from the other digits in the
code. SEE ALSO parity.
checkpoint
1. A synchronization step between a data system and an application where all changes to the data
system are recorded to disk and noted as complete.
2. A copy of the state of a system at a point in time.
circle graph
SEE chart, pie.
citizen
A person recognized as a member of a public state, with associated obligations and rights. Not the
same as customer.
citizen advocacy
The perception that a government does what is best for its citizens, not just what is best for its own
bottom line.
clarity
A measurement that evaluates freedom from obscurity or extraneous data.
class diagram
SEE chart, class diagram.
class word
A word used in an attribute's name to show what type of data is contained therein, usually applied at
the end. SEE ALSO prime word.
class, attribute
In .net framework, associates information with a target element.
class, process
In .net framework, associates information with local system processes.
class, role
Represents the security level that can be assigned to users.
classification
1. Generally, a set of discrete, exhaustive, and mutually exclusive observations that can be assigned to
one or more variables to be measured in the collation and/or presentation of data.
2. In data modeling, the arrangement of entities into supertypes and subtypes.
3. In object-oriented design, the arrangement of objects into classes, and the assignment of objects to
these categories.
classification framework
Organizes the structure and views that encompass enterprise architecture. (DAMA-DMBOK Guide,
1st edition, pg. 67.)
classification system
Arrangement or division of objects into groups based on characteristics that the objects have in
common.
client
1. Generally, an existing or prospective customer.
2. In client/server systems, a device (desktop, laptop, PDA, etc.) that communicates with a server.
3. In client/server programming, a software program used to contact and obtain data from a server
software program on another computer. Each client program is designed to work with one or more
specific kinds of server programs.
client/server architecture
SEE architecture, client/server.
closed architecture
SEE architecture, closed.
cloud computing
An architecture in which all access to shared resources is provided on-demand via self-service
internet applications. Formerly known as distributed computing. Can be used as a delivery
mechanism for Software-As-A-Service and Hardware-as-a-Service.
cloud services
Services that are made available in a distributed computing (cloud) environment.
clustered index
SEE index, clustered.
clustering
Verb. To output a smaller data set based on grouping criteria of common attributes.
code
1. Generally, a language-independent set of letters, numbers, or symbols that represent a concept whose
meaning is described in a natural language.
2. In software, the program language lines of instruction that make up software.
3. In data modeling, a shorthand key value representing the domain value of an attribute. Code sets are
intensional domain value sets.
4. Verb. To represent data in a form that can be accepted by a data entry program.
code management
1. The definition and maintenance of coded data values, descriptions, definitions, cross references,
parent-child rollups, and other relationships for the valid instances of limited (intensional) domains.
Code management is a specialized form of Master Data Management. It is a key responsibility of
operational data stewards, because it has a very significant impact on overall data quality. Code
management typically includes an approval process for all code value additions, changes, and
retirements.
2. The definition and maintenance of program code for the purposes of controlling development on
production systems.
code table
A relational database table containing rows for each valid value in a finite domain. Code tables
contain some form of encoded data values. Code tables are reference data, maintained through code
management.
Copyright © 2011 by DAMA International. All rights reserved. page 53
coding
The process of converting verbal or textual information into codes representing classes within a
classification system, to facilitate data processing, storage, or dissemination.
coding error
1. The assignment of an incorrect code to a data item
2. In software, an error in program lines of instruction that make up software or data transformation
routines
cohesion
A close working relationship between parts, complete enough when together to enable some degree
of autonomy without other extraneous parts.
cold backup
SEE backup, cold.
collaboration diagram
SEE chart, collaboration diagram.
collation
The assembly of documents or data entities or attributes into a standard order, such as alphabetical.
column
In data modeling, a data attribute as implemented in a relational database as a vertical component of
a table, similar to a field in a flat file record.
columnar database
SEE database, columnar.
column-oriented database
SEE database, column-oriented.
combined key
SEE key, composite.
comment
In data modeling, supplementary descriptive text which can be attached to data or meta-data.
commit
The SQL statement that concludes a unit of work (database transaction).
common word
A word that has consistent meaning whenever it is used in a data name. (Brackett 2011)
communication diagram
A form of UML diagram that shows the interactions between objects or parts in terms of sequenced
messages. Each message is numbered regardless of its placement on the diagram, so that the reader
can follow the path by following the numbers sequentially.
comparability
The extent to which differences between statistics can be attributed to differences between the true
values of the statistical characteristics.
compliance
1. The act of agreement to follow external government or industry regulations.
2. The process of conforming, completing, performing or adapting actions to meet the rules, demands,
or wishes of another party.
component
1. A discrete object or entity that is a part of a larger system.
2. A modular part of a system that encapsulates its content, and whose manifestation is replaceable
within its environment. (Object Management Group 2008, pg. 146.)
Component Assemblies
Zachman Framework row name, matches Technicians as Implementers.
component diagram
SEE chart, component diagram.
composite attribute
SEE data attribute, composite.
composite key
SEE key, composite.
composite model
A model that includes other models and the relationships between them.
composite partitioning
SEE partitioning, composite.
compound key
SEE key, composite.
comprehensive
Adjective. Covering completely or broadly. (Brackett 2011)
concatenated key
SEE key, composite.
concentric circles
SEE chart, concentric circles.
concept
A unit of knowledge created by a unique combination of characteristics.
concept fan
SEE chart, concept fan.
concept map
SEE chart, concept map.
conceptual model
SEE model, conceptual.
concise
Adjective. Including only necessary parts; not including unnecessary details or attributes.
concurrency
The simultaneous execution of processes against the database.
concurrency control
The control of process contention for resources within multi-process systems.
concurrency transparency
The ability of one process to see information about other processes that are executing at the same
time.
confidence level
A measurement of certainty that a statistical prediction is accurate.
confidentiality
1. Ensuring that information is accessible only to those authorized to have access. ISO-17799.
2. In data security, a property of data indicating the extent to which their unauthorized disclosure could
be prejudicial or harmful to the interest of the source or other relevant parties.
configuration management
A generic term that is often used to describe the whole of the activities concerned with the creation,
maintenance, and control of databases and their environments.
conformance
Agreement to follow internal policies, standards, procedures, and architecture requirements.
conformed dimension
A dimension that means and represents the same thing when linked to different fact tables.
conformity
1. The state of being similar to accepted standards or to the attributes of peers.
2. The process of becoming similar to the attributes of peers or to a standard.
connected
The characteristic of a graph in which there exists at least one path from every node to every other
node in the graph.
consensus
The agreement of a group to a decision, judgment or definition, when all stakeholders present can
say, “I can live with it.”
consistent
Adjective. Uniformity or agreement among things or parts of things. Having internal logical and
numerical coherence; having no internal contradiction.
consolidation
The process of combining and aggregating data from different systems and possibly disparate
formats to create a unified view of information.
Copyright © 2011 by DAMA International. All rights reserved. page 59
constraint
1. Generally, a restriction on a business action and the resulting data. For example, “only wholesale
customers may place wholesale orders.”
2. In data management, a specification of what may be contained in a data or meta-data set in terms of
the content or, for data only, in terms of the set of key combinations to which specific attributes
(defined by the data structure) may be attached, and how. Examples of how include dependency
(must have at least one), exclusivity (at most one; non-overlapping), subset, or equality.
constraint, domain
A type of constraint on an attribute that defines the values that may be assigned, through limits, lists,
or ranges.
constraint, key
A type of constraint on a data set that restricts the combinations of attribute values according to
certain rules (uniqueness, etc.)
content
1. The information contained within documents and web pages.
2. The name of a DCMI element set (Coverage, Description, Type, Relation, Source, Subject, Title).
SEE ALSO Dublin Core Metadata Initiative.
content management
The processes, techniques, and technologies for organizing, categorizing, and structuring of
information resources so that they can be stored, published, and reused in multiple ways. Content
management is a critical data management discipline for data found in text, graphics, images, and
video or audio recordings.
content mashup
SEE mashup, content.
context
1. Generally, facts or circumstances that relate to a situation or event.
2. In software design, the minimal set of data required for a task that allows interruption and
resumption of the task without error.
contextual model
SEE model, contextual.
contextualization
The process of adding language to signal relevant aspects of an event or data attribute.
contingent relationship
SEE relationship, contingent.
continuous availability
A ready state of functionality that seeks to guarantee computing system operation despite any
challenging event. Continuous availability requires seamless availability during any planned or
unplanned event and seamless recovery of applications, data, and data transactions committed prior
to the event.
continuum
Shows the transition of a topic from one extreme to the other, and all interesting points in between.
Usually shown on a double-headed arrow, with each end being one extreme.
contributor
DCMI element in element set Intellectual Property: an entity that contributes to a resource. SEE
Dublin Core Metadata Initiative.
control
The mechanism used to maintain acceptable performance of a process.
control activity
In the DAMA-DMBOK Functional Framework, a supervisory activity performed on an on-going
basis. SEE ALSO activity group.
control chart
SEE chart, control.
control data
Data that guides a process, such as indicators, flags, counters, and parameters.
controlled vocabulary
A defined list of explicitly allowed terms and their definitions. The organization of a controlled
vocabulary into a parent-child hierarchy is a taxonomy.
conversion
1. In systems, the migration from the use of one application to another.
2. In data management, the process of preparing, reengineering, cleansing and transforming data and
loading it into a new target data structure. Typically, the term is used to describe a one-time event as
part of a new database implementation. However, it is sometimes used to describe an ongoing
operational procedure.
cookie
An identifier used by a web application to associate a present website visitor with their previous
activity with that company.
cooperative processing
A style of application processing in which the presentation, business logic, and data management are
split among two or more software services operating on one or more computers. In cooperative
processing, individual software programs (services) perform specific functions that are invoked by
means of parameterized messages exchanged between them.
copyright
The set of exclusive privileges granted to an author, creator, or owner of a work, allowing control of
use of that work, including copying, distribution, and adaptation of the work.
correlation
A predictive relationship between two factors, such that when one factor changes, you can predict
the nature, direction and/or amount of change in the other factor. Not necessarily a cause-and-effect
relationship.
correlation database
SEE database, correlation.
correlation regression
A function that describes the correlation of the values of a data set to a line.
coverage
DCMI element in element set Content: the topic, jurisdiction, or spatial scope of a resource. SEE
Dublin Core Metadata Initiative.
covering index
SEE index, covering.
Coxcomb chart
SEE chart, polar area.
Create-Read-Update-Delete (CRUD)
A list of the only functions of data in persistent storage, in a convenient acronym form.
creation date
The date on which the record, data or meta-data item was created.
creator
DCMI element in element set Intellectual Property: an entity that is responsible for the first existence
of a resource instance. SEE Dublin Core Metadata Initiative.
cross-functional
Adjective. Interest in data or process by more than one organization in an enterprise.
cross-sell
The practice of suggesting the purchase of a related product to customers who are already making a
purchase.
cross-tabulation
Cross-referencing of data from one or more sources for analysis or reporting.
cube
SEE data cube.
currency
1. A medium of exchange, usually a form of money.
2. Monetary denomination of the object being measured.
currentness
The degree to which data represents reality as of a point in time.
customer
A person or organization whose needs are important to the enterprise or person, and whose
satisfaction with the products and services provided by the enterprise determines its success, failure,
and effectiveness. SEE ALSO citizen.
customer advocacy
The perception that an organization does what is best for its customers, not just what is best for its
own bottom line.
cyber marketing
Any type of Internet-based promotion through web sites, targeted e-mail, Internet bulletin boards, e-
commerce, and online social networking mechanisms.
cyberspace
A metaphoric abstraction for a virtual reality existing inside computers and on computer networks.
The de facto term for the Internet during the 1990s, coined by science fiction writer William Gibson,
who referred to it as “a consensual hallucination experienced daily by billions of legitimate operators
in every nation”. While cyberspace should not be confused with the real internet, a web site might be
said to “exist in cyberspace.” According to this interpretation, events taking place on the Internet are
not therefore happening in the countries where the participants or the servers are physically located,
but instead are happening “in cyberspace”.
cycle graph
SEE chart, cycle graph.
cycle time
The time required to execute a process from start to finish.
D
DAMA Foundation, The
The Research and Education Affiliate of DAMA International with a mission to promote
development of a formal, certified, recognized, and respected data management profession. Currently
supporting this effort through publication of the DAMA Dictionary and DAMA-DMBOK.
DAMA International
An international not-for-profit association of data resource management professionals with chapters
and members-at-large around the world, dedicated to advancing the concepts and practices of
managing data, information and knowledge as enterprise assets. DAMA International is the leading
data management professional organization worldwide.
DAMA-DMBOK Guide
A document distributed by DAMA International, intended to be a “definitive introduction” to the
Data Management Body of Knowledge.
dashboard
A Business Intelligence application that consolidates, aggregates, and graphically presents
performance measurements compared to goals, arranged so that information can be monitored at a
glance. Dashboards can be used to manage any scope of operations.
data
1. Facts represented as text, numbers, graphics, images, sound, or video. Data is the raw material used
to represent information, or from which information can be derived. (Everest 2010)
2. The individual facts that are out of context, and have no meaning by themselves. They are often
referred to as raw data, such as 123.45. Data have historically been defined as plural; datum is the
singular form. (Brackett 2011)
3. “The digital shadow of haphazard events indifferently recorded.” (Terry Hanold)
data acceptance
The formal, sometimes highly rigorous, process associated with acknowledging that data has been
delivered or accepted for use in an acquiring system or organization.
data accuracy
The degree to which a data attribute value closely and correctly describes its business entity instance
(the “real life” entities) as of a point in time.
data acquisition
1. The collection of processes of identification, selection, and mapping of source data to target data,
including detection of source data changes, data extraction techniques, timing of data extracts, data
transformation techniques, frequency of database loads and levels of data summary.
2. The activity performed to obtain data, or have access to it under either limited or unlimited rights for
use.
data analysis
The study and presentation of data to create information and knowledge.
data analyst
A business systems analyst who identifies data requirements, defines data, and develops and
maintains data models.
data appliance
1. A combination of hardware, software, Database Management System, and storage, all under one
umbrella; a “black box” that yields high performance in both speed and storage and makes data
access simpler.
2. Servers built specifically for data transformation and distribution. These servers integrate with
existing infrastructure either directly as a plug in, or peripherally as a network connection. (DAMA-
DMBOK 1st edition pg. 35)
data architecture
SEE architecture, data.
data archival
The process that supports long-term storage of scientific data and methods used to read or interpret
it. Data archival is a step along the path of data preservation, and can be phased for online, near
online, or offline storage availability. The data archival process is an important part of data migration
and data refresh.
data assimilation
Most prevalently used in geosciences, this is the process of combining data samples having specific
sample criteria with projected data from a model to create and improve a unified consistent physical
system definition.
data attribute
1. An inherent fact, property, or characteristic describing an entity or object; the logical representation
of a physical field or relational table column. A given attribute has the same format, interpretation,
and domain for all occurrences of an entity. Attributes may contain adjective values (red, round,
active, etc.).
2. A unit of data for which the definition, identification, representation, and permissible values are
specified by means of a set of characteristics.
3. A representation of a data characteristic variation in the logical or physical data model. A data
attribute may or may not be atomic. SEE ALSO attribute.
data capture
The process by which collected data are put into a machine-readable form.
data cardinality
In relationships, the characteristic of a relationship that specifies the upper and lower bounds of
how many instances of one entity or object type can be related to each instance of the same or some
other entity or object type. Cardinality is separately specified at each end of the relationship. At each
end the choices are 0, 1, or M. Combining the cardinality at both ends of a binary relationship, yields
3 x 9 - 1 = 8 possibilities (0:0 is not a valid option).
data certification
The process of verifying and stating that a data set's contents meets expected standards. SEE ALSO
certification.
data chaos
A state where multiple redundant, inconsistent databases contain the same data attribute used for a
similar purpose, rated by the maximum count of instances of a single data attribute.
data characteristic
An individual fact that describes or characterizes a data subject. It represents a business feature and
contains a single fact, or related facts, about a data subject. (Brackett 2011)
data checking
Activity through which the correctness conditions of the data are verified.
data cleansing
The process of correcting data errors to bring the level of data quality to an acceptable level for the
information user needs.
data clustering
The process of partitioning the data attributes of an entity or table into subsets or clusters of similar
attributes, based on subject matter or characteristic (domain).
data compilation
Operations performed on data to derive information according to a given set of rules.
data completeness
The degree to which data is captured.
data compression
1. Algorithms or techniques that change data to a smaller physical size that contains the same
information.
2. The process of changing data to be stored in a smaller physical or logical space.
data consistency
The degree to which one set of attribute values match another attribute set within the same row or
record (record-level consistency), within another attribute set in a different record (cross-record
consistency), or within the same record at different points in time (temporal consistency). (DAMA-
DMBOK GUIDE 1st edition, pg. 296.)
data consumer
A person or group that receives data (on a screen, in a report, or through a query) and uses the data
to create information. SEE ALSO information consumer.
data conversion
1. The process of changing data structure, format, or contents to comply with some rule or
measurement requirement.
2. The process of changing data contents stored in one system so that it can be stored in another
system, or used by an application.
data creator
A person who enters or updates data. Roughly equivalent to data producer. SEE ALSO Create-Read-
Update-Delete.
data cube
A multi-dimensional data structure that contains an aggregate value at each point, i.e., the result of
applying an aggregate function to an underlying relation. Data cubes are used to implement OLAP.
SEE ALSO schema, star.
data currentness
A measure of how well the data values remain current with the business. (Brackett 2011)
data custodian
SEE data steward.
data definition
1. Statements that specify the business meaning associated with a conceptual, logical, or physical data
entity or attribute.
2. The process of creating business meta-data, including names, meanings, integrity rules, and domain
values.
3. In computer programming, the statements in a computer program that specify the physical attributes
of the data to be processed, such as location and quantity of data.
data denormalization
The process that adjusts the normalized data structure for optimum performance in a specific
operating environment, without compromising the normalized data structure. (Brackett 2011)
data de-optimization
The technique that transforms the logical data structure into the deployment data structure for the
data sites where the databases will be implemented. It deals with the specific data that will be
maintained in different data sites. (Brackett 2011)
data description
The statements in a computer program that specify the physical attributes of the data to be
processed, such as location and quantity of data.
data development
Analysis, design, implementation, testing, deployment, and maintenance of data. (DAMA-DMBOK
Guide, 1st edition, pg. 6.)
data dictionary
Any place where business and/or technical terms and definitions are stored. Typically, data
dictionaries are designed to store a limited set of available meta-data, concentrating on the names and
definitions relating to the physical data and related objects of systems implemented or in
development. SEE ALSO repository.
data distribution
1. In data storage, the mathematical patterns of data values as they exist within a set.
2. In data networks, the patterns of storage of data within and through various systems and on various
platforms or sites.
3. In data movement, transmission of data to one or more locations from a central point.
data domain
A set of allowable values for a data attribute. (Brackett 2011)
data editing
Activity aimed at detecting and correcting errors, logical inconsistencies, and suspicious data. Data
editing is the physical application of data integrity rules, which are developed logically and
denormalized within the data to produce data edits, which are then applied to the data.
data element
SEE data attribute.
data entity
A classification of objects found in the real world described by the Noun part of speech -- persons,
places, things, concepts, and events – of interest to the enterprise. Usually expressed in singular form.
data error
A data value that provides incorrect or false knowledge about the business, or about business objects
and events that are important to the business. (Brackett 2011)
data escrow
In Software-as-a-Service, the practice of keeping a set of data with an independent third party to
prevent data loss.
data exchange
The process of sending and receiving data.
data exploration
The process of examining data in order to determine ranges and patterns within the data.
data export
1. The process of extracting information from a database into a file.
2. The result data set from the export process.
data extract
1. A snapshot copy of data from a source database used to update data in a target database, or for use
in an application.
2. Verb. To copy data from a source for data movement and data transformation.
data federation
A method of transparently joining or linking data from multiple physical locations and/or multiple
platforms.
data file
A physical file of data that exists in a Database Management System, such as a computer file, or
outside a database management system, such as a manual file. It is referred to as a table in a relational
database. A data file generally represents a data entity, subject to adjustments made during formal
data denormalization. (Brackett 2011)
data flow
The transfer of data between systems, applications, or data sets.
data governance
The exercise of authority, control, and shared decision-making (planning, monitoring, and
enforcement) over the management of data assets. SEE governance; data stewardship.
data heritage
Documentation of the source of the data and their original meaning at the time of data capture.
(Brackett 2011)
data hoarding
The process of restricting access to data based on concerns regarding proprietary content, economic
impact, security implications.
data identification
The data that have been identified thus far for potential inclusion in the information system. The
process of specifying which data should or will be sought to fulfill user needs. A description of the
different types of data and their applicable tools for analysis is also included.
data in a cloud
Data that is stored in a distributed network of systems, where the location of the data is unknown
and transparent to the user.
data in context
Individual facts that have meaning and can be readily understood. They are raw facts wrapped with
meaning. (Brackett 2011)
data independence
1. The ability to change the logical or physical structure of data without changing the application
program and its view of the data.
2. On a large scale, the independence of the data architecture from the business activity architecture, the
platform architecture, and the information system architecture. On a smaller scale, the independence
of the logical design from the physical platform where data will be stored.
data instance
A specific set of data values for the characteristics in a data occurrence that is valid at a point in time,
or for a period of time. Many data instances can exist for each data occurrence, particularly when
historical data are maintained. One data instance is the current instance and the others are historical
instances. (Brackett 2011)
data instant
The point in time or the timeframe the data represent in the business world. (Brackett 2011)
data integration
The planned and controlled:
a) merge using some form of reference,
b) transformation using a set of business rules, and
c) flow of data from a source to a target,
for operational and/or analytical use. Data needs to be accessed and extracted, moved, validated and
cleansed, standardized, transformed, and loaded.
data integrity
1. Data that complies with all rules regarding definitions, relationships, lineage, and heritage.
2. In data movement, data that is provably not changed unexpectedly through transmission between
systems.
data intermediary
A role in which individuals transform data from one form, not created by them, into another form.
For example, a data entry clerk enters data from a paper form into a database.
data inventory
A comprehensive list of all data objects in a system or an organization, including electronically stored
data such as databases and files, and non-electronic data.
data item
An individual field in a data record, referred to as a column in a relational database. A data item
represents a data attribute, subject to adjustments made during formal data denormalization.
(Brackett 2011)
data key
Any data attribute or set of data attributes used to identify a data occurrence within a data entity.
(Brackett 2011)
Copyright © 2011 by DAMA International. All rights reserved. page 77
data latency
The time delay for data to be updated in a system compared to the real world. When data is displayed
in real time, data latency is eliminated.
data lifecycle
A conceptualization of how data is created and used which attempts to define a “birth-to-death”
value chain for data, including acquisition, storage and maintenance, use, movement to archive, and
destruction. (DAMA-DMBOK Guide, 1st edition, pg. 3.)
data lineage
A description of the pathway from the data source to their current location and the alterations made
to the data along that pathway. (Brackett 2011)
data loading
The process of populating more than one row at time into database, typically a Data Warehouse.
data map
SEE chart, data map.
data mapping
The assignment of source data entities and attributes to target data entities and attributes, and the
resolution of disparate data.
data marking
A term used for the classifying data at a deep meaningful level for its sensitivity (secret, etc.) and
appropriate release. For example, some data will not be sensitive on its own, but will not be
releasable to certain countries, or in combination with other data, which then makes it sensitive.
data mashup
SEE mashup, data.
data migration
The process of transferring data from one database to another. SEE ALSO conversion.
data mining
The process of sifting through large amounts of data using pattern recognition, fuzzy logic, and other
knowledge discovery statistical techniques to identify previously unknown, unsuspected, and
potentially meaningful data content relationships and trends. SEE ALSO predictive analysis.
data model
A model that includes formal data names, comprehensive data definitions, proper data structures,
and precise data integrity rules. A complete data model must include all four of these components.
(Brackett 2011)
data modeler
A person who builds data models.
data modeling
1. An analysis and design method, building data models to
a) define and analyze data requirements,
b) design logical and physical data structures that support these requirements, and
c) define business and technical meta-data.
2. The act of creating a data model.
data movement
The process of extracting data from one system and loading it onto another system. SEE ALSO
Extract-Transform-Load.
data name
A label for a fact or a set of related facts contained in the data resource, appearing on a data model,
or displayed on screens, reports, or documents. (Brackett 2011)
data normalization
The process that brings data into a normal form that minimizes redundancies and keeps anomalies
from entering the data resource. It provides a subject-oriented data resource based on business
objects and events. (Brackett 2011)
data occurrence
A logical record that represents the existence of a business object or the happening of a business
event in the business world, such as an employee, a vehicle, and so on. (Brackett 2011)
data overload
A deluge of data coming at a recipient that is not relevant and timely. It is a deluge of unwanted non-
information.
data owner
An individual responsible for definitions, policy, and practice decisions about data within their area
of responsibility. For business data, the individual may be called a business owner of the data.
data policy
Short statements of management intent and fundamental rules governing the creation, acquisition,
integrity, security, quality, and use of data and information. (DAMA-DMBOK Guide, 1st edition, pg.
47.)
data preparation
The process which involves checking or logging the data in; checking the data for accuracy; entering
the data into the computer; transforming the data; and developing and documenting a database
structure that integrates the various measures. This process includes preparation and assignment of
appropriate metadata to describe the product in human readable code/format.
data privacy
The limitation of data access to only those authorized to view the data. SEE ALSO confidentiality.
data processing
The operation performed on data through capture, transformation, and storage, in order to derive
new information according to a given set of rules.
data producer
A person, organization, or software service creating or providing data. SEE ALSO data creator.
data professional
SEE data management professional.
data profile
A collection of statistics about a data attribute that shows patterns of usage, patterns of contents, and
any other patterns that may be interesting.
data profiler
Someone who performs data profiling.
data profiling
An approach to data quality analysis, using statistics to show patterns of usage, and patterns of
contents, and automated as much as possible. Some profiling activities must be done manually, but
most can be automated.
data propagation
The distribution of data from one or more source databases to one or more local target databases,
according to defined rules. Typically used in reference to distributed databases. SEE ALSO data
replication.
data provenance
Provenance applied to the organization's data resource. (Brackett 2011)
data quality
The degree to which data is accurate, complete, timely, consistent with all requirements and business
rules, and relevant for a given use. SEE ALSO information quality.
data reconciliation
The process of adjusting data derived from two different sources to remove, or at least reduce, the
impact of differences identified.
data record
A physical grouping of data items that are stored in or retrieved from a data file. It is referred to as a
row or tuple in a relational database. A data record represents a data instance. (Brackett 2011)
data redundancy
The unknown and unmanaged duplication of business facts.
data re-engineering
The process of analyzing, standardizing, and transforming data from non-standard files and databases
into a standardized database that is part of the enterprise data architecture.
data refresh
The process of applying updates as a group to a data set, then allowing users access to the updated
data.
data relation
An association between data occurrences in different data subjects or within the same data subject. It
provides the connections between data subjects for building the proper data structure and for
navigating in the database. (Brackett 2011)
data remanence
The residue of data that has been nominally erased or removed.
data replication
The consistent copying of data from one primary data site to one or more secondary data sites. The
copied data are kept in synch with the primary data on a regular basis. (Brackett 2011)
data repository
A loose term for a collection of multiple databases. Something entirely different from a meta-data
repository. Not recommended for use.
data requirement
Statements describing the data needs of a person or organization. Business meta-data (data names
and meanings) and Logical Data Models are structured ways of defining data requirements, in
addition to more traditional requirement specifications.
data rule
A subset of business rules that deals with the data column of the Zachman Framework. (Brackett
2011)
data scrubbing
SEE data cleansing.
data security
1. The safety of data from unauthorized and inappropriate access or change.
2. The measures taken to prevent unauthorized access, use, modification, or destruction of data.
data service
An interface to a business process that receives or delivers data attributes, usually via a web
application.
data set
Any organized collection of data.
data sharing
Exchange of data and/or meta-data in a situation involving the use of open, freely available data
formats, where process patterns are known and standard, and where not limited by privacy and
confidentiality regulations.
data staging
The process of moving data from one system into intermediate storage before final processing into a
target.
data steward
A business leader and/or subject matter expert designated as accountable for:
a) the identification of operational and Business Intelligence data requirements within an
assigned subject area,
b) the quality of data names, business definitions, data integrity rules, and domain values within
an assigned subject area,
c) compliance with regulatory requirements and conformance to internal data policies and data
standards,
d) application of appropriate security controls,
e) analyzing and improving data quality, and
f) identifying and resolving data related issues.
Data stewards are often categorized as executive data stewards, business data stewards, or
coordinating data stewards. SEE ALSO data owner; data stewardship; data governance.
data stewardship
1. The formal, specifically assigned, and entrusted accountability for business (non-technical)
responsibilities ensuring effective control and use of data and information resources. SEE ALSO
data steward; stewardship; data governance.
2. The formal accountability for business responsibilities ensuring effective control and use of data
assets. (DAMA-DMBOK Guide, 1st edition, pg. 39.)
data storage
The means of recording or archiving data so that they are available for future use.
data store
A place where data is stored; data at rest. A generic term that includes databases, flat files, and non-
electronic data files.
data strategy
A business plan for leveraging an enterprise’s data assets to maximum advantage. SEE ALSO
enterprise data strategy.
data subject
A person, place, thing, concept, or event that is of interest to the organization and about which data
are captured and maintained in the organization's data resource. Data subjects are defined from
business objects and business events, making the data resource subject oriented toward the business.
(Brackett 2011)
data synchronization
The continuous harmonization of data attribute values between two or more different systems, with
the end result being the data attribute values are the same in all of the systems.
data tracking
The process of documenting data provenance. (Brackett 2011)
data transfer
The process of moving data from one system or operating environment to another.
data transformation
Changing the format, structure, integrity, and/or definitions of data from the source database to
comply with the requirements of a target database.
data transport
The mechanism that moves data from a source to target environment.
data update
The process of inserting or modifying a data attribute in a database
data validation
The process of monitoring the results of data compilation and ensuring the quality of the
computational results.
data value
The specific representation of a value for an attribute as of a point in time.
data versioning
The process of identifying and ordering snapshots of data as it changes over time according to
certain criteria. Each version becomes an independent instance.
data visualization
Techniques for graphical representation of trends, patterns and other information.
data, analytical
Subject oriented, integrated, time variant, non-volatile collections of data in support of Business
Intelligence activities. SEE ALSO OnLine Analytical Processing.
data, derived
A data set created through a computational step applied to atomic data. Derived data is the result
either of relating two or more attributes of a single transaction (such as an aggregation), or of relating
one or more attributes of a transaction to an external algorithm (formula) or rule. SEE ALSO data
attribute, derived.
data, non-tabular
Data not structured in a relational database table or grid format. Includes unstructured data, which
has different internal structures, but can include links as well as classification tags as part of the
tabular data attributes. SEE ALSO data, unstructured.
data, operational
Process oriented, non-integrated, time current, volatile collections of data used to support the daily
activities of an enterprise. SEE ALSO OnLine Transaction Processing.
data, structured
Data that can be described using a discrete domain of vocabulary terms, organized by inherent
patterns into semantic groups or entities, presented by context rather than content.
data, tabular
Data stored in grid (or table) format (records or rows, and columns).
data, unstructured
Any document, file, graphic, image, text, report, form, video, or sound recording that has not been
tagged or otherwise structured into rows and columns or records. This term has some inaccurate
connotations, as there is usually some structure (for instance, paragraphs and chapters) in these
formats.
data.gov
A U.S. government website launched by the Federal Chief Information Officer of the U.S. in order
to make available government collected data for use by the public.
data-at-rest
Data that is written to and contained in static storage.
database administration
The function of managing the physical aspects of data resources, including database design and
integrity, backup and recovery, performance and tuning, generally within the context of a particular
DBMS.
database auditing
The logging, monitoring, analysis, and reporting on database activity.
database definition
SEE schema, database.
database design
1. The process of developing a physical data model, followed by definition of all physical database
objects, including tables, indexes, and sequences.
2. The physical data model and the detailed DDL for a database. The database design addresses
physical constraints such as storage and performance.
database designer
SEE data modeler.
database integrity
1. The degree to which data in a database conforms to logical integrity constraints through the
implementation of physical DBMS constraints.
2. The degree to which data in a database can be recovered in the event of a hardware or software
failure.
database inventory
A comprehensive list of all databases within a system or an organization.
database management
The development and support of structured data resources. Database management is broader in
scope than database administration, including the responsibilities beyond those of database
administrators.
database marketing
The use of information about customers and prospects to strengthen customer relationships by
identifying new opportunities and improving customer service. Uses methods for creating, testing,
and executing marketing strategies based on analysis of customer data. Includes the mass
customization of marketing campaigns to decrease costs, improve response, build customer loyalty,
reduce attrition, and increase customer satisfaction.
database reorganization
The process of rearranging physical storage for a database in order to optimize performance.
database schema
SEE schema, database.
database server
In a distributed application architecture, the DBMS software, related data integration and access
services and associated hardware supporting access and manipulation of data, separate from
application logic and user interfaces.
database transaction
A unit of work; a set of statements to read, create, modify, or delete business data, which the
Database Management System must complete performance of all the statements or reverse the
changes.
database, archival
An exact copy of a database, along with any specific software necessary for managing that database,
saved for purposes of historical research, recovery, or restoration.
database, columnar
A database structure that serialized values by columns then by rows, rather than conventional
databases which serialize values by rows and then by columns.
database, column-oriented
A Database Management System that stores its content by column rather than by row.
database, correlation
A Database Management System that is data model independent and designed to efficiently handle
unplanned, ad hoc queries in an analytical system environment. Unlike relational database
management systems (records-based storage) or column-oriented databases (column-based storage),
a correlation database uses a value-based storage architecture in which each unique data value is
stored only once and an auto-generated indexing system maintains the context for all values.
database, distributed
A database that contains objects residing on independent systems in a network, but can be accessed
as though all objects resided on the same system.
database, hierarchical
A database in which all relationships among data entities and attributes are hierarchical (SEE
relationship, hierarchical). Sometimes used to refer to databases that have hierarchical record
structures but allow more general network relationships between record types. Examples include
UML, most OO data models, Kroenke's Semantic Object Model, the SQL:99 standard (and later
versions), and nested relations. There is increasing interest in moving away from the restrictions of
the relational model, which allow only flat record structures. SEE ALSO structure, hierarchical.
database, historical
A database that provides an historical perspective on the data; that is, a database that can be used to
show how facts about an entity have changed over time.
database, network
A type of database where records are stored with links or pointers to other records. Distinguished
from a hierarchical database in the sense that a child record may have relationships with multiple
parent records.
database, operational
A database supporting one or more transactional applications. Operational databases are the sources
of data for data Operational Data Stores and Data Warehouses. They contain detailed data used to
run the day-to-day operations of the business. The data continually changes as updates are made.
SEE ALSO OnLine Transaction Processing.
database, relational
1. The most common form of database today, storing data in tables made of up of columns and rows,
created using the relational data modeling scheme.
2. A database conforming to Codd's rules:
Rule 0: The system must qualify as relational, as a database, and as a management system.
Rule 1: The information rule.
Rule 2: The guaranteed access rule.
Rule 3: Systematic treatment of null values.
Rule 4: Active online catalog based on the relational model.
Rule 5: The comprehensive data sublanguage rule.
Rule 6: The view updating rule.
Rule 7: High-level insert, update, and delete.
Rule 8: Physical data independence.
Rule 9: Logical data independence.
Rule 10: Integrity independence.
Rule 11: Distribution independence.
Rule 12: The non-subversion rule.
database, source
A database that feeds into a target database. May be an operational database, ODS, data staging area
or Data Warehouse.
database, target
The database in which data will be loaded or inserted.
database, temporal
A database with built-in time aspects, including valid time and transaction time.
data-in-motion
Data that is carried across networks between systems.
date
1. A point in time with the granularity of a day.
2. A class word, abbreviated usually to dt.
3. DCMI element in element set Instantiation: a timeframe for an event. SEE ALSO Dublin Core
Metadata Initiative.
datum
Historically, has been defined as the singular form of data related to one fact. (Brackett 2011)
deadlock
A scenario where a set of multiple simultaneous actions within a set wait for others within the set to
complete and release the resources being held. The waiting processes are “locked out” from the
resources held by the other processes. A true deadlock lasts forever, is never resolved.
decision rights
In Data Governance, information about the who, when and how a data-related decision is made.
decision support
SEE Business Intelligence.
decision tree
SEE chart, decision tree.
declarative
Adjective. Describes a type of programming language in which the programmer does not define the
flow of control at execution time.
decryption
The process of reversing encryption; decoding back into original format.
deduction
1. The process of reasoning from one state to another, such as from cause to effect, or from general to
specific.
2. Subtraction.
deduplication
The process of elimination of redundant copies of data from storage or during a merge of multiple
datasets.
defect
A data value that does not conform to its quality requirements. SEE ALSO error.
defect prevention
Improving systems to eliminate or minimize data errors in a database or information product.
defect rate
The percentage of data that is incorrect, inaccurate, or no longer true. The number of defects found
compared to the total number of data values.
Define-Measure-Analyze-Design-Verify (DMADV)
A Six Sigma process improvement method, used for projects to design and create new product or
processes.
Define-Measure-Analyze-Improve-Control (DMAIC)
A Six Sigma process improvement method, used for projects to improve existing business processes.
definition
1. A statement conveying a fundamental character or the meaning of a word, phrase, or term. It is a
clear, distinct, detailed statement of the precise meaning or significance of something. (Brackett 2011)
2. The process of assigning names, description, and specification.
degenerate dimension
SEE dimension, degenerate.
degree
The number of attributes (columns) in a record or relation including those making up the identifier.
(Everest 2010)
delete
1. To remove or erase.
2. A SQL statement (command) that specifies removal of data in a relational database.
deliverable
An expected output or outcome from a project, function, activity, or task. Usually an information
delivery product, such as a document or database.
delta
1. A Greek letter (Δ) signifying the difference between two statistical values.
2. The term used to identify rows that have changed between time periods, used in ETL processing.
delta update
A dataset containing only the data that was updated between the last extraction or snapshot process
and the current execution of the extraction or snapshot.
Copyright © 2011 by DAMA International. All rights reserved. page 99
Deming Cycle
The “plan-do-check-act” cycle of continuous improvement developed by Walter Shewhart and
popularized by W. Edwards Deming. SEE ALSO Shewhart Cycle.
demographics
A segment of a population delineated by certain shared inherent characteristics.
demography
The study of human populations through statistics.
denormalization
The process of reversing the decomposition resulting from applying the rules of normalization;
recombining records. (Everest 2010)
dense index
SEE index, dense.
density-equalizing map
SEE chart, area cartogram.
dependency
Characteristic of a relationship that expresses “must have at least one.” Also called mandatory,
required, exhaustive, or NOT NULL. Opposite of optional, orphan, or nullable. (Everest 2010)
dependency, functional
1. In a relationship, a constraint between any two attributes, where one attribute value matches to one
and only one value of the other attribute.
2. Used in the context of an attribute in an entity record, an attribute instance cannot exist without
being related to an entity instance (the dependency part) and there can be at most one instance
(value) for that attribute for each entity instance (the function part where A = fn(X) - given a value
for X, fn uniquely determines a value for A. In this case, X is called the determinant of A.).
dependency, multi-valued
In a relationship, a constraint between sets of attributes where the values of one set of attributes
match to one and only one other set of attribute values. Contrast with functional dependency where
the constraints involve only one attribute from each set.
dependency, partial
A type of dependency in which the value of a non-key field is determined by a part of a composite
key, thus violating second Normal form.
dependency, transitive
A type of dependency in which the values of non-key attributes are determined by another non-key
attribute, rather than the entity key. It is a functional dependency but between two non-key
attributes, hence violating third Normal Form. SEE ALSO dependency, functional.
dependent entity
SEE data entity, dependent.
deployment
The act of putting information technology into productive use. Installation puts the system into the
production environment. Deployment includes installation, but also includes efforts to train and
encourage effective use.
deployment diagram
A visual representation of the configuration of a system deployed in a production environment,
including hardware, software, data objects, and all processes that use them, including processes that
only exist while executing.
derived attribute
SEE data attribute, derived.
derived data
SEE data, derived.
description
1. A textual representation of a thing.
2. A class word, abbreviated usually to desc.
3. DCMI element in element set Content: a textual, tabular, or graphical portrayal of a resource. SEE
ALSO Dublin Core Metadata Initiative.
descriptive meta-data
SEE meta-data, descriptive.
descriptive model
A model that describes how a system actually works.
design
1. A deliberate, purposeful plan, layout, delineation, arrangement, and specification of the component
parts and interfaces of a product or system. A logical design is an abstract design for fulfilling
requirements without consideration for physical constraints. A physical design considers the
requirements along with physical constraints.
2. Verb. To conceive, plan, define, arrange, and specify a product or system.
design review
A process where all aspects of a system design are reviewed publicly before code construction starts.
determinant
The entity domain that determines the value of an attribute. SEE ALSO dependency, functional.
deterministic matching
A type of matching that relies on defined patterns and rules for assigning weights and scores for
determining similarity. (DAMA-DMBOK Guide, 1st edition, pg. 310.)
developer
A person who designs, codes and/or tests software. Different types are known as software
developer, systems developer, application developer, software engineer, or application engineer.
development activity
In the DAMA-DMBOK Functional Framework, an activity undertaken with projects and recognized
as part of the Systems Development LifeCycle, creating data deliverables through analysis, design,
building, testing, and deployment. SEE ALSO activity group.
deviation
The measure of difference between expected and observed values, or more generally, between any
two values.
diagram
A visual representation of relationships between multiple things, i.e., how a system works, how parts
are related to the whole. SEE ALSO chart.
dialect
A subset of language used or agreed to by a group of people. An ontology defines the precise
meaning of the vocabulary in a dialect and the relationship between these terms.
dice
A slice operation on more than two dimensions of a data cube, or more than two consecutive slices.
(DAMA-DMBOK Guide, 1st edition, pg. 236.) SEE ALSO slice.
dictionary
A collection of definitions for words, terms, and phrases that differentiate closely related words. SEE
ALSO data dictionary.
digital preservation
The management of data on digital media over time. As digital media storage mediums and storage
applications change, either data must be moved to new media, or old storage retrieval mechanisms
and applications must be kept operational.
digitize
Verb. To convert something into a binary representation for computer storage and/or use.
dimension
1. Generally, an axis from which you can regard or summarize something.
2. In architecture, one of a series of properties that together are used to uniquely identify a location or a
component of a system.
3. In Business Intelligence, a category for summarizing or viewing data (e.g., time period, product,
product line, geographic area, organization).
4. In dimensional modeling, a type of table, or a structural attribute of a data cube containing a list of
members, all of which are of a similar type in the user's perception of the data. For example, all
months, quarters, years, etc., make up a time dimension; likewise all cities, regions, countries, etc.,
make up a geography dimension. A dimension acts as an index for identifying values within a multi-
dimensional array. Dimensions offer a very concise, intuitive way of organizing and selecting data for
retrieval, exploration, and analysis.
dimension table
In dimensional modeling, a table containing a row for each occurrence of a dimension list, linked to
one or more fact tables through use of the dimension table key as a foreign key in each related fact
table.
dimension, conformed
A dimension that exists once but is used in multiple star schemas, so that the dimension content and
meaning is the same regardless of which fact table is joined.
dimension, degenerate
A dimension where there are no valid dimensional attributes other than a unique identifier in a one-
to-one relationship with a fact table.
dimension, junk
A dimension that consists of multiple loosely-related codes and indicators collected into one table in
order to reduce the number of keys and indexes needed in a star schema.
dimension, mini
A dimension that includes attributes of another dimension that change over time more frequently
than is desired. This sometimes greatly enhances load performance by concentrating the write
operations to a small subset of attributes.
dimension, type 0
A dimension where no updates occur. All rows stay as they were when initially written to the table.
dimension, type 1
A dimension in which all attributes are type 1, so all attributes are overwritten with new data.
dimension, type 2
A dimension in which all attributes are type 2, so any attribute that changes for the business key
requires generation of a new row.
dimension, type 2A
Similar to a type 2 dimension, a type 2A writes a new row for any change in the data for the row and
is time-date stamped. However, the old row is retired to a history table; it is not left in the current
table. So in effect, the type 2A table resembles a type 1 in its contents. However, it can be joined to
the history table to get a full type 2 view.
dimension, type 3
A dimension in which all attributes are type 3, so that any attribute that changes for the business key
will require copying attribute values to other attributes before the original attributes are overwritten.
dimension, type 4
A dimension table where the data is physically split into two tables, one with the current value rows,
and the other with only historical value rows.
dimension, type 6
A dimension table which combines the attributes of types 1, 2 and 3 (1+2+3=6).
dimensional aggregate
A computed value derived from the calculation of a fact measure at the intersection of one or more
dimensions at non-granular levels.
dimensional model
A specialized type of physical data model particular to a retrieval-only database design, commonly
used in Data Warehouses and data marts, where de-normalized fact tables are linked to dimension
tables. Star schemas and snowflake schemas are examples of dimensional models.
directory
1. Generally, information heavily optimized for searching and reading.
2. In data storage, a table, index or folder containing addresses and locations of data or relationships
between data objects.
3. In operating systems, a synonym for a folder in Windows and other operating systems, used to
organize stored files and other folders.
4. A type of meta-data store that limits the meta-data to the location or source of data in the enterprise.
(DAMA-DMBOK 1st edition, pg. 282.)
dirty data
Data with a high degree of inaccuracy, incompleteness, inconsistency, or that fail some edit criteria.
disaggregation
The breakdown of computations usually within a common branch of a hierarchy, to a more detailed
level for which detailed measures can be attributed.
disambiguate
Verb. To clarify the meaning of a term by selecting between alternate interpretations.
disambiguation
The process of identifying attributes to differentiate or clarify between alternate interpretations.
disaster recovery
A protocol and associated execution to recover lost computing-system usage (applications, data, and
data transactions) committed up to the moment of system loss.
disparate
Adjective. Fundamentally dissimilar in kind, or containing or including dissimilar or unlike attributes.
Opposite of similar.
disparate data
Data that are essentially not alike, or are distinctly different in kind, quality, or character. They are
unequal and cannot be readily integrated to meet the business information demand. They are low
quality, defective, discordant, ambiguous, heterogeneous data. (Brackett 2011)
distance cartogram
SEE chart, distance cartogram.
distributed database
SEE database, distributed.
Distributed Relational Database Architecture (DRDA)
An IBM architecture for coordinating data across multiple relational Database Management Systems.
document
1. Generally, any information delivery vehicle, paper or electronic.
2. In data management, the content and structure in an electronic file.
3. In document or record management, a paper object in the real world, which may include signatures.
document management
The storage, inventory, and control of electronic and paper documents. (DAMA-DMBOK Guide,
1st edition, pg. 239.)
Copyright © 2011 by DAMA International. All rights reserved. page 106
documentation
Descriptive text and images used to define or describe an object, design, specification, instructions,
or procedure.
domain
1. Generally, a set of things that have a common definition, such as the set of possible values for an
attribute, or the population of an entity.
2. In data modeling, a type of attribute with common properties and purposes, such as key, code, date,
indicator, amount, name, or description.
3. In an ontology, a constraint limiting the classes that can use a property.
domain chaos
A characteristic of multiple attributes using a domain where the domain of valid values used are not
internally consistent from attribute to attribute, or are not applied consistently. Example: a unit of
measure code domain where one attribute uses the code to show quantity on hand as “doz”, and
another shows reorder point quantity in numerals.
domain constraint
SEE constraint, domain.
domain key
SEE key, business.
domain study
The study of a domain of values for a data item, to determine if that item is similar to another item
and a candidate for integration or merging.
dot.com
Internet-based companies that rely on digital technology and the use of the Web as the primary
communication and interaction media.
drill anywhere
The ability to “drill down” to any dimension without having to follow predefined drill paths.
drill down
A method of exploring detailed data that was used in creating a summary level of data. Drill down
levels depend on the granularity of data within a dimension.
drill through
An OLAP function often used to imply the ability to navigate from dimensionally aggregated data to
relational transaction source data. Typically, the transaction set returned is constrained by multiple
filters in accordance with the starting dimensional aggregate.
drill up
Data analysis performed on a data set with applied mathematical functions, associated with fewer
dimensions, higher levels of hierarchy in one or more dimensions, or both.
Dublin Core
A standard core ontology for meta-data about documents, originating in Dublin Ohio and managed
by the Dublin Core Metadata Initiative.
dummy key
SEE key, surrogate.
duplex
Adjective. Describes a system that has communication paths in both directions between two parties.
DW 2.0
DW 2.0 - Advanced Data Warehouse architecture that includes the life cycle of data in the Data
Warehouse, the integration of unstructured data, and enterprise metadata.
dynamic SQL
Dynamically constructed SQL queries that are not pre-processed, and whose access paths are
determined at run time prior to execution.
E
e-business
Simply doing business electronically, usually over the Internet. The two main types of e-business are
business-to-consumer (B2C) and business-to-business (B2B).
e-commerce
Consumers doing business with a commercial enterprise directly through computers and without
other human intermediaries. SEE ALSO Business-to-Consumer; e-business.
edge
In graph theory, a connection between two nodes in a graph. Also known as an arc.
element
1. SEE component.
2. For use with data, SEE data attribute.
emulation
The process of providing results of one system using another different system, such that the results
are identical even if the processes are not.
encapsulation
1. A method of communication protocol design which separates network functions from underlying
structures.
2. In object-oriented design, the combination of structure (data and values) and operations (processes;
program code) associated with an object. The processes use the data to act on objects.
encryption
The conversion of a recognizably meaningful character stream to an unrecognizable character stream
by means of a cipher code, in order to secure data and prevent unauthorized access of personally
identifiable information, and/or company confidential information.
encyclopedia/tool encyclopedia
A non-definable meta-data store used by an application development tool.
Engineers as Builders
Zachman Framework row name, matches Technology Physics.
Copyright © 2011 by DAMA International. All rights reserved. page 111
enterprise
The scope of an organization as defined by that organization based on a purpose or point of view.
An enterprise may be a business, not-for-profit, government agency, or educational institution. An
enterprise has a purpose, goals, and objectives.
enterprise architecture
SEE architecture, enterprise.
enterprise BI portal
A web-based approach to distributing business information, consolidating Business Intelligence
objects (reports, documents, spreadsheets, data cubes, etc.) and making them easily accessible,
subject to security authorization, to non- technical users via standard browser technology.
enterprise data
Data that is shared across more than one function within an enterprise, or is created and used by one
function but still considered essential to the enterprise.
enterprise model
The collection of enterprise data models, enterprise process models, and any other model addressing
the entire enterprise in scope. The complete set of enterprise models is commonly called the
enterprise architecture.
enterprise reporting
1. The process of producing reports using unified views of enterprise data.
2. A category of software tools used to produce reports; a term for what were simply known as
reporting tools.
enterprise storage
Storage designed for large-scale, high availability environments.
entity
1. Any concrete or abstract thing that exists, did exist, or might exist, including associations among
these things e.g. a person, object, event, idea, process, etc.
2. In mathematics, is a single existent, such as an employee John J. Smith. (Brackett 2011)
entity extraction
The process of scanning unstructured documents to find identifiable entities, based on contextual
clues.
entity generalization
SEE generalization, entity.
entity hierarchy
The set of connected parent-child relationships of which an entity is a connected part. SEE ALSO
hierarchy.
entity instance
1. Generally, the existence of a thing or the happening of an event.
2. In data modeling, a single specimen or member of an entity type population. SEE ALSO object.
entity lifecycle
The phases and distinct states through which an entity moves through time. A state transition
diagram documents the entity lifecycle.
entity occurrence
SEE entity instance.
entity set
In mathematics, is a group of like entities, such as Employee. (Brackett 2011)
entity type
A population of entity instances which conform to the same data definition or schema, often
synonymous with object type or class. An entity type represents a class of objects in the users'
universe of discourse, their world represented in a data model. They may be persons, places, things,
abstract concepts, events, etc. of interest to the enterprise. (Everest 2010)
entity, business
Something of interest to an organization. It may be concrete or an abstract concept. May be
represented by a data entity in a data model. (Everest 2010) SEE ALSO entity type.
entity, event
Discrete occurrences that are noted by time stamps or other ordering attributes.
entity, kernel
An entity that is at the top of a hierarchy, the basic high-level entity.
entity, reference
An entity that classifies something else, or that something else refers to for clarity.
entropy
The measurement of uncertainty in an outcome, or randomness in a system.
environment
1. In the computer technology context, it refers to the conditions surrounding data, such as databases,
data formats, servers, network, and any other components that affect the data.
2. In a business context, the influencing factors on business performance.
environmental element
An aspect of an organization and its business processes defined in the DAMA-DMBOK Functional
Framework. The seven environmental elements are Goals & Principles, Activities, Deliverables,
Roles & Responsibilities, Practices & Techniques, Technology, and Organization & Culture.
epistemology
A branch of philosophy that studies the nature of truth and knowledge.
equivalence
A relationship where each side implies or replaces the other; interchangeable.
ergonomics
The study of how technology affects the health of the human body. Also known as biotechnology.
error
1. An incorrectly stated, inaccurate, or no longer valid fact.
2. An incorrect action taken in a process, usually resulting in a defect.
error rate
1. The frequency with which errors occur in transactions. Also called the failure rate.
2. In data quality, the percentage of data that is incorrect, inaccurate, or no longer true. Also called the
data defect rate.
essential
Adjective. Required, critical.
estimate
The particular value yielded by an estimator or an estimate process in a given set of circumstances.
Ethernet
A local area network protocol developed by Xerox in cooperation with DEC and Intel. Ethernet uses
a bus topology and supports transfer rates of 10 Mbps. The Ethernet specification served as the basis
for the IEEE 802.3 standard, which specifies the physical and lower software layers.
ethics
In general, a social system's rules of behavior with which all members of that social system are
expected to comply. Contrast with morals. SEE ALSO professional ethics.
evaluational data
Subject oriented, integrated, time variant, non-volatile collections of data in support of management's
decision-making process. They are used to evaluate the business and usually contain summary data
with some capability to drill down to detail data. (Brackett 2011)
event
The occurrence of some action of interest to the enterprise, usually characterized at a point in time.
For a period of time, recognizing that a process may span a duration of time, the start and stop of the
process would be the events. SEE ALSO transaction.
event analysis
A process of analyzing notifications and taking action based on the notification content.
event data
Data about business events (often system transactions) that have historic significance, or are needed
for analysis by other systems. Event data is atomic data that may be aggregated.
event entity
SEE entity, event.
event tree
SEE chart, event tree.
Exabyte (Eb)
One thousand Petabytes.
EXCEPT
A SQL set operator that returns one tabular SELECT answer sets with consistent column structures
from two answer sets where rows in the 'left' table do not have matches in the 'right' table using the
join conditions.
exclusivity
Characteristic of a relationship that expresses “at most one.”
expert system
An artificial intelligence system driven by rules based on the skills and experience of one or more
experts in a given field, so the system processes information the same way an expert person does.
Expert systems are deterministic, versus neural networks, which are non-deterministic.
explicit
Adjective. Describes a formal expression of knowledge.
extensional
Adjective. Defined by a specific and finite list of values, not by conformity to any rule or requirement.
Opposite of intensional.
Extract-Transform-Load (ETL)
1. Generally, an approach to data integration from multiple source databases to integrated target
databases (Operational Data Stores, Data Warehouses, or Data Marts).
2. Commonly, a software product or tool that extracts data from a data source, converts data to a new
format, and loads the data to a target database. SEE ALSO data integration.
extranet
An internal network or intranet opened to selected business partners. Suppliers, distributors, and
other authorized users can connect to a company’s network over the Internet or through private
networks.
extrinsic
Adjective. Describes a property that is nonspecific and unessential to a thing or event.
F
facet taxonomy
SEE taxonomy, facet.
fact
1. A verifiably true data point.
2. In dimensional modeling, an attribute that can be measured.
fact table
In dimensional modeling, a central table that contains numerical measures and keys relating facts to
dimension tables. Fact tables contain data that describes specific events or transactions (such as bank
transactions) or results from mathematical functions applied to the events or transactions (such as
the net summary of a day’s transactions against a single account).
failure rate
The frequency with which errors occur in transactions. SEE ALSO defect rate.
Copyright © 2011 by DAMA International. All rights reserved. page 121
failure transparency
The extent to which errors and recoveries within a distributed system are invisible to users and
applications.
failure tree
SEE chart, fault tree.
false negative
An incorrect result, which fails to detect a condition or return a result that is actually present.
false positive
An incorrect result, which detects a condition or returns a result that is not actually present.
fault tree
SEE chart, fault tree.
federated database
A set of databases that are documented and then interconnected to operate as one database, even
when those databases are on different platforms. A person desiring data goes to the federation and
gets the data they need without knowing where those data reside. (Brackett 2011)
field
The physical container for values of an attribute.
file
A collection of information either on paper, or electronically in the form of data fields (or more
complex structures) which describe a set of entities possessing some common characteristics or
attributes; a collection of zero or more records which may have an arbitrarily complex structure (flat,
hierarchical, etc.).
filter
A saved set of selective criteria specifying a subset of data in a database.
financial consolidation
The process of combining and aggregating data from different financial systems to create integrated
financial analytic views and comprehensive financial statements compliant with accounting and
financial reporting standards.
financial integrity
Compliant and reliable financial data, achieved through quality integrated systems and processes,
strong internal control, validations to ensure accuracy and conformance with accounting and
reporting standards.
firewall
A combination of specialized hardware and software set up to monitor traffic between an internal
network and an external network (i.e. the Internet). Its primary purpose if for security and is designed
to keep unauthorized outsiders from tampering with or accessing information on a networked
computer system.
fishbone diagram
SEE chart, cause-and-effect diagram.
flag
An attribute of a cell in a data set representing qualitative information about the value of that cell,
either positive or negative. SEE ALSO indicator.
flat file
A file in which all the attribute fields are atomic, that is, single valued. SEE table. SEE ALSO
database, relational.
flat taxonomy
SEE taxonomy, flat.
flatten
Verb. In a hierarchical data structure, to absorb all child records into their parent records (flattening
up) or copying a parent record into each of its children (flattening down). In flattening up, each child
type must be given a different name in the parent record, so that the parent record becomes a flat file
with atomic fields. For example, in a hierarchical structure you may have a nested repeating group
called address with a type attribute on each address instance (i.e., home, school, vacation, summer
cabin). When flattened, each of the repeating attributes must be named differently, such as home
street, summer street, etc. This is a technique to convert a hierarchical structure into a single flat file
or relation that can be implemented more easily in a relational DBMS.
floating point
A system for using significant digits and exponents to represent numbers too large or small to display
using the existing format or display criteria.
folksonomy
A system of classification that originates from collaboration of users to categorize (tag) and organize
information; a usage-generated taxonomy.
fork
A graphical symbol used to represent manyness in the multiplicity characteristic of a relationship,
preferred because it visually and intuitively communicates manyness. First proposed by Gordon
Everest in a 1976 paper. Also called inverted arrow, chicken feet, crow's foot, or trident.
format
1. The specifications for layout or display of information, such as in a document or on a disk.
2. Verb. To apply display or configuration specifications to a document or data set.
3. DCMI element in element set Instantiation: physical characteristics of a resource. SEE ALSO Dublin
Core Metadata Initiative.
forward engineering
The process of generating physical structures from concepts and logical descriptions. SEE ALSO
reverse engineering.
framework
1. Generally, a basic skeletal structure.
2. Conceptually, a classification scheme used to better understand a topic; a defined and documented
paradigm, used as a lens to view a complex problem.
3. In software development, a reusable object-oriented design, including a library of reusable classes and
other components, along with standards for designing additional components and how they interact.
fraud detection
The process of detecting patterns, trends, or correlations in consumer or corporate behavior that
might indicate that fraudulent activity is taking place; e.g., identifying potential or existing fraud
through analysis and comparison of standard and aberrant behaviors. SEE ALSO data mining.
frequency distribution
A tabulation of values output from a function given a set of inputs.
full duplex
Adjective. Describes a system that allows communication between two endpoints simultaneously. SEE
ALSO half duplex; simplex.
full join
SEE join, outer.
function
1. Generally, the acts, operations, and duties expected of a person or thing.
2. In process design, a high-level process consisting of a group of closely related lower-level activities
that together contribute to the overall purpose and health of an organization or person.
3. In mathematics, a transformation that operates on one or more independent variables, and produces
a value for the dependent variable. Generally written as D=Fn(I). SEE ALSO dependency,
functional.
function point
A unit of measurement expressing business functionality provided to a user by an information
system, calculated using data from past projects.
functional decomposition
SEE chart, functional decomposition.
functional requirement
SEE requirement, functional.
funnel chart
SEE chart, funnel.
fuzzy matching
A technique of decomposing words into component parts and comparing the parts to find an
acceptable level of correspondence.
G
Gantt chart
SEE chart, Gantt.
gap analysis
An assessment of a system in comparison with another system or a set of requirements, listing those
items that are not common between them.
gateway
A software product that allows SQL-based applications to access relational and non-relational data
sources.
gateway exchange
An organized set of bilateral exchanges, in which several data and meta-data sending organizations or
individuals agree to exchange the collected information with each other in a single, known format,
and according to a single, known process.
generalization
The process of recognizing commonalities, and combining similar types of entities or objects into a
less specialized type based on common attributes and behaviors, creating a supertype for two or
more specialized subtypes. Contrast with specialization.
generalization, attribute
The process of evaluating attributes in multiple related entities for commonalities and possibly
moving specialized attributes from a child or subtype entity to a parent or supertype entity where the
specialization applies to more than one of the children.
generalization, entity
The process of evaluating multiple entities in a set for commonalities and then possibly combining
some of those entities into one larger entity that covers the topics represented by the subsumed
entities.
generalization, relationship
The process of evaluating multiple relationships between entities in a set into fewer relationships.
Usually necessary after other generalization activities have taken place, which carry the relationships
of the specialized entities into the generalized entities. For example, two 1:M relationships between
two entities, each having a different parent, can be generalized into a M:N relationship.
geodetic data
Data used in navigation and surveying to translate positions to a position on a planet.
geomatics
The discipline of gathering, storing, processing, and delivering of geospatial data. The use of
geospatial technology to survey and capture geospatial measurements.
geospacial
Adjective. Pertaining to data about locations on, in, above, or below a planet's surface.
geospatial data
Data pertaining to locations and regions on the earth, generally expressed as latitude and longitude
(and sometimes altitude); can be located and reasoned about in terms of area.
Gigabyte (Gb)
A billion bytes of storage; a thousand Megabytes.
global index
SEE index, global.
glossary
1. Generally, a dictionary covering a limited subject area.
2. In Meta-data Management, a glossary may be an extract of business meta-data (terms and their
meanings) from a meta-data repository.
goal
A desired state or statement of general direction for long-term improvement. SEE ALSO objective.
governance
1. Generally, the exercise of authority and control over a process, organization, or geopolitical area.
2. In data management, the process of setting, controlling, administering, and monitoring conformance
with policy. SEE ALSO data governance.
grammar
The rules by which the syntact components of a language (whether linear or graphical) are assembled
into meaningful sentences, command statements, or graphical structures based on semiotics.
graph
1. Generally, a set of homogeneous nodes (vertices) and edges (arcs) between pairs of nodes.
2. In Business Intelligence, a visual representation using references to a set of axes to illustrate the
relationship between functions or sets of quantities. SEE ALSO chart.
graph theory
The study of mathematical structures used to model relations between items within a data set.
Gregorian calendar
Internationally accepted civil calendar used in the western world, with additional rules regarding
application of leap days, and other minor adjustments.
grid computing
A web-based operation allowing companies to share computing resources on demand.
H
half duplex
Adjective. Describes a system that allows communication between two endpoints where only one may
transmit at a time. SEE ALSO simplex; full duplex.
Hamming code
A class of binary linear codes used for parity calculation that can detect up to two simultaneous bit
errors, rather than just odd numbers of errors. Named for Richard Hamming. Used in computer
memory (RAM) and telecommunications for validating data transmission.
hash partitioning
SEE partitioning, hash.
heat map
SEE chart, heat map.
help desk
SEE call center.
heterogeneous
Adjective. Describes multiple members in a set that have differences in nature or structure. Opposite
of homogeneous.
heuristics
“Rules of thumb” and approximation methods for obtaining a goal, a high quality solution, or
improved performance. It sacrifices completeness to increase efficiency, as some potential solutions
would not be practicable or acceptable due to their 'rareness' or 'complexity'. This method may not
always find the best solution, but it will find an acceptable solution within a reasonable timeframe for
problems that will require almost infinite or longer than acceptable times to compute.
hexadecimal
A numbering system using a base of 16, using letters A through F to represent 10 through 15
decimal. A byte is generally 8 binary digits, so that 1 hexadecimal representation represents 4 binary
digits. Core dumps are expressed in hexadecimal for example.
hierarchical database
SEE database, hierarchical.
hierarchical relationship
SEE relationship, hierarchical.
hierarchical structure
SEE structure, hierarchical
hierarchical taxonomy
SEE taxonomy, hierarchical.
hierarchy
1. Generally, a classification structure arranged in levels of detail from the broadest to the most detailed
level. Each level of the classification is defined in terms of the categories at the next lower level of
the classification.
2. In dimensional modeling and dimensional databases, the organization of a dimension’s members
based on parent-child relationships, typically where a parent member represents the consolidation of
child members.
high availability
A protocol and associated execution that ensures a certain relative degree of computing-system
operational continuity in any down-time event.
histogram
A chart that shows quantities of data points that occur within various numeric ranges.
historical database
SEE database, historical.
historical revisionism
The reinterpretation of historical data based on new data, validated or invalidated assumptions about
the data, or different perspectives on the environment that generated the data.
homogeneous
Adjective. Describes multiple members in a set that have no differences in nature or structure.
Opposite of heterogeneous.
homogeneous nodes
A set of nodes conforming to the same definition (or of the same type).
homonym
A term that has the same or nearly same spelling or sound as another term, but has a different
meaning. Contrast with synonym.
horizontal abstraction
SEE abstraction, horizontal.
horizontal partitioning
SEE partitioning, horizontal.
host-driven
Adjective. Describes a processing method in which the host computer controls the session. A host-
driven session typically includes terminal emulation, front ending, or client/server types of
connections. The host determines what is displayed on the desktop, receives user input from the
desktop, and determines how the application responds to the input.
hot backup
SEE backup, hot.
householding
Consolidating related names and addresses into groups.
How
Zachman Framework column name, matches Process Transformations.
human interface
An interface from a system to a human that enables the human to interact with and receive
information from that system. SEE ALSO interface.
hype-cycle chart
SEE chart, hype-cycle.
hyperbolic tree
SEE chart, hyperbolic tree.
hypercube
An OLAP product that stores all data in a single data cube which has all the application dimensions
applied to it.
hyperlink
A one-way reference from one electronic document to another. Most frequently implemented as
navigational links from one web page to another.
hypertext
Electronically stored text data organized into documents and logical sections that can be accessed
randomly via hyperlinks as well as sequentially.
I
iceberg diagram
SEE chart, iceberg diagram.
IDentifier (ID)
1. The label (value, name, handle, ...) used to unambiguously refer to individual instances of a
population. It is represented by a key in the records or relations of a database. There must be a 1:1
relationship between the values of the key, and the members of the population in the user world.
Identifiers define keys (primary keys, candidate keys).
2. A class word assigned to attributes or columns containing unique identity values for that instance or
row.
3. DCMI element in element set Instantiation: a unique reference to a resource. SEE ALSO Dublin
Core Metadata Initiative.
identifying relationship
SEE relationship, identifying.
image
A class word, abbreviated usually to img.
image management
The process of managing image files stored electronically.
impact analysis
Identifying the potential consequences of changing an object to its related objects.
implementation
Installing and converting to use of a software application.
inaccurate
Adjective. Not complying with a standard, model, or rule. Having defects or errors.
inconsistent
Adjective. Having disagreement or disparity among things or parts of things. Having internal
contradictions.
increment
A portion of a complete implementation, considered as its own discrete project, but part of an
overall implementation program.
incremental implementation
SEE Phased Implementation.
incremental load
Data propagation to a target database limited to the data that has changed in the source database
since the last load.
index
1. Generally, a cross-reference created to find something that matches some selection criteria.
2. In data management, a data structure which cross references a set of values from the same domain to
the places (records or rows) where each value appears, generally within a single file (SEE join index).
An index is usually ordered according to the values in the domain. In general, an index can have
multiple references (or pointers) for each value, unless the index is on an identifier, in which case
there is a one-to-one relationship between the values and the record identifiers. An index is used to
improve retrieval performance on a file; it does not add any new information to the database.
3. Verb. To create a cross-reference list.
index, bitmap
An indexing technique in which a separate structure stores the references to the data as bit arrays.
index, block
Describes an index where every key relates to a block in a data file, using the lowest search key in the
block.
index, b-tree
A binary search tree index that stores index pointers in block partitions according to the values
themselves. It simulates a binary search tree and uses corresponding search methods to give
performance of the order of Log(base2)N, rather than N as in conventional indexes.
index, clustered
An indexing technique in which the actual data is physically stored in the order of the index values,
rather than having the index in a separate structure pointing to the data rows. Only one clustered
index may exist on an object at a time.
index, covering
An index where the values of the data are stored in the index, allowing data retrieval from the index
itself, instead of the data object.
index, dense
Describes an index where every row in the indexed structure relates to a value in the index.
index, global
A type of index that either is related to a non-partitioned table, or is not partitioned even though the
underlying table is partitioned.
index, inverted
An index structure that stores locations of keywords within a set of files, and possibly the location
within the file, rather than a list of possible values, in order to provide speedy searches for words or
phrases. Mostly used for content searches through multiple files, such as a search for the term
“DAMA” within several web pages or documents.
index, local
A type of partitioned index where the index block corresponds to one and only one data block.
index, non-clustered
An indexing technique in which the actual data is stored in random order, not physically in the order
of the index. Files can have multiple non-clustered indexes, and each non-clustered index will take up
space as an object.
index, reverse
An indexing technique in which the value being indexed is reversed (reversing the characters or
reversing the digits) before being sorted. This is especially useful for indexing sequence numbers,
where the most significant digit rarely changes, but the least significant digit always does.
index, sparse
Describes an index where every possible value in the indexed object relates to a pointer in the index,
and few of those values actually appear in the indexed file or object, so that the index is mostly
empty. See also index, block.
index, unique
An index on an identifier, or attribute(s) defined as unique, in which case there can only be one
pointer for each value entry in the index.
indicator
1. An attribute type that is considered to be binary: On or Off, True or False, Yes or No.
2. A class word, abbreviated usually to ind.
induction
In data management, the process of creating categories from instances.
inference
Reasoning from known propositions.
inferential model
A model in which some of the data is inferred by actual data points.
information
1. Generally, understanding concerning any objects such as facts, events, things, processes, or ideas,
including concepts that, within a certain context and timeframe, have a particular meaning.
2. The interpretation of data based on its context, including the
a) the business meaning of data elements and related terms,
b) the format in which the data is presented,
c) the timeframe represented by the data, and
d) the relevance of the data to a given usage.
(DAMA-DMBOK Guide, 1st edition, pg. 2.)
information architecture
SEE architecture, information.
information asset
Data in any form or media placed into meaningful context for users, collected in relation to business
or research activity.
information chaos
Chaos in information that may be relevant and timely, but is interpreted incorrectly, inconsistently, or
incompletely.
information consumer
A person or group that receives data and uses it to create information. A more descriptive term for a
data consumer, since the consumer creates and uses information by interpreting data in context.
information directory
A collection of the meta-data that relates to Data Warehouse and Business Intelligence systems
within an organization, providing some context to the meta-data to make it usable and searchable by
business professionals in natural language terms. The directory includes business meta-data including
definitions, domains, examples, relationships, functions, rules, advisories, and equivalents in other
environments. It also may include technical meta-data about datatypes, lengths, number of distinct
values, transformation rules, and replication schedules.
information mapping
A technique of dividing and categorizing information for ease of comprehension and recall.
information model
A model showing information structure, usually at a conceptual or logical level.
information overload
The state where the rate or amount of input to a system or person outstrips the capacity or speed of
processing that input successfully.
information policy
A statement of principles and guidelines for information management.
information stewardship
SEE data stewardship.
information warehouse
IBM's approach to data warehousing that supports the implementation of either central, functional,
or decentralized warehouses. It may provide information, but it does not contain information by
itself. SEE ALSO Data Warehouse.
infrastructure
The underlying foundation of a system or organization. SEE ALSO infrastructure, IT.
infrastructure, IT
1. The complete set of hardware, operating system, and software products implemented in support of
the application software of an enterprise.
2. The IT organization responsible for design, implementation, maintenance, operation, and support of
the IT infrastructure.
inheritance
1. Generally, to receive by succession.
2. In data modeling, the sharing of the attributes and behaviors of parent class (supertype entity).
in-memory architecture
SEE architecture, in-memory.
inner join
SEE join, inner.
inner query
SEE subquery.
INSERT
A SQL statement (command) that specifies addition of rows of data in a relational database.
installation
Moving a software product or application into a production computing environment.
instance
1. An individual member of a population, such as a value in the domain of values for an attribute, or an
individual entity record in a file. (Everest 2010) SEE ALSO entity instance; attribute; object.
2. A set of facts describing an actual entity occurrence at a point in time or during a period of time. The
data about an occurrence may vary in different instances.
instantiate
Verb. To create an instance of a software object or database row/record.
instantiation
1. An instance of a software object or database row/record.
2. The name of a DCMI element set (Date, Format, Identifier, Language). SEE ALSO Dublin Core
Metadata Initiative.
institutional mandate
Set of rules or other formal set of instructions assigning responsibility as well as the authority to an
organization for the collection, processing, and dissemination of information
intangible asset
SEE asset, intangible.
integer
A natural whole number (positive or negative) or zero. From the Latin integer for “intact, untouched”.
Contrast with real number.
integrate
Verb. To form or blend into a whole; to unite with something else; to incorporate into a larger unit;
to bring into common organization. (Brackett 2011)
integration
1. The unified state of multiple components into one whole, complex system.
2. The process of unifying multiple components into one complex system.
integration test
SEE test, integration.
intellectual capital
SEE intellectual property.
intelligence
1. Verb. The ability to understand and apply to practice.
2. In common use, a collection of data about something or someone.
intelligent agent
A software routine that waits in the background and performs an action when a specified event
occurs. For example, agents could transmit a summary file on the first day of the month or monitor
incoming data and alert the user when certain transactions have arrived.
intelligent key
SEE key, intelligent.
intensional
Adjective. Describes a set of valid values defined by conformity to rules. Each time the rules are
executed, the result set may be different from the time before. For instance, the set of customers
with overdue balances is an intensional set. SEE ALSO domain; extensional; Master Data
Management.
intensional set
A set where membership is defined by explicit rule(s) applied to members of a larger set. The
operands of the rule would be attributes of the (entity) instance being considered for membership.
Opposite of extensional set.
interactive query
A query formed through the interaction between a human and the (computer) system. The system
can assist the user in formulating a query. The query may then be executed (usually is) or stored for
later execution.
interdependency
1. The degree to which a set of attributes influence each other's values.
2. In data quality, the degree to which one attribute or row influences the values of other attributes or
rows.
interface
The connection to and means of communication between people and systems, or between different
systems.
internet archive
A non-profit digital library offering free access to uploaded books, music, and archived web pages.
internet bookmark
The address to an Internet site that has been saved with a name or a tag.
internet tagging
The process of adding attributes to sites on the internet in order to enable grouping or filtering.
Internet, The
The global set of computers linked over public networks addressing each other through DNSs and
URL addresses, using HTTP for their primary access protocol and HTML to display information.
interoperability
The ability of various types of computers and programs to work together and share data across
different platforms.
interpolation
The use of a formula to estimate an intermediate data value.
interpretive language
A computer language that compiles source instructions one at a time as needed at run time.
interrogative
1. Generally, a question; a sentence that generates a reply.
2. In language, a part of speech that is used to show a question: Who, What, When, Where, How, Why
are all interrogatives.
3. Adjective. Of or relating to questions.
INTERSECT
A SQL set operator that intersects two tabular SELECT answer sets with consistent column
structures into one answer set table where only rows that match using the join conditions are
included.
intersection entity
SEE data entity, associative.
interval number
A numeric scale in which the numbers have no arithmetic zero point or origin. Thus, it is only
meaningful to add and subtract them, not multiply or divide. We cannot say that 60 degrees is twice
as hot as 30 degrees. Examples are date, time, and temperature, except for Kelvin, which does have a
meaningful absolute zero.
intranet
A subset of the Internet used internally by an organization. Unlike the larger Internet, intranets are
private and accessible only from within the organization. The use of Internet technologies over a
private network.
intrinsic
Adjective. Describes a property which is specific and essential to, and inseparable from, only one thing
or event, and which is independent of any other property.
Inventory Configuration
Zachman Framework cell name, intersection of What/Inventory Sets and Component
Assemblies/Technicians as Implementers.
Inventory Definition
Zachman Framework cell name, intersection of What/Inventory Sets and Business
Concepts/Executive Leaders as Owners.
Inventory Identification
Zachman Framework cell name, intersection of What/Inventory Sets and Scope Contexts/Strategists
as Theorists.
Inventory Instantiation
Zachman Framework cell name, intersection of What/Inventory Sets and Operations Instance
Classes/Workers as Participants.
Inventory Representation
Zachman Framework cell name, intersection of What/Inventory Sets and System Logic/Architects
as Designers.
Inventory Sets
Zachman Framework column name, matches What.
Inventory Specification
Zachman Framework cell name, intersection of What/Inventory Sets and Technology
Physics/Engineers as Builders.
inverted index
SEE index, inverted.
inverted list
An index structure that stores locations to records in a database file by mapping the contents of the
database file itself as a list.
Ishikawa diagram
SEE chart, cause-and-effect diagram.
ISO 9000
International standards for quality management, specifying guidelines and procedures for
documenting and managing business processes, and providing a system for third-party certification
to verify those procedures are followed in actual practice.
ISO/IEC 11179
International ISO/IEC Standard on meta-data registries addressing the semantics of data, the
representation of data, and the registration of the descriptions of data.
isodemographic map
SEE chart, area cartogram.
IT governance
The process of making decisions about IT investments, the IT application portfolio, and the IT
project portfolio. (DAMA-DMBOK Guide, 1st edition, pg. 38.)
IT infrastructure
SEE infrastructure, IT.
IT portfolio management
1. The budgeting, funding, issue and risk management, and overall tracking mechanism for all IT
projects and programs.
2. The formal process for managing IT assets including application software, infrastructure software
and hardware, internal staff, and external consulting, and how they support business processes and
strategies, outside of program or project management.
IT Steering Committee
The governing body of senior executives responsible for aligning IT goals, objectives, strategy,
architecture and projects with enterprise goals, objectives and strategy, for oversight of IT functions
and projects, including project prioritization and funding.
iterative
Adjective. Describes an approach to building something by repeating a procedure.
J
jargon
Words in a dialect intended to keep nonmembers from knowing what is happening.
Java
A cross-platform source object-oriented programming language that allows applications to be
distributed over networks and the Internet.
job
A series of scripts or programs that run at a predefined schedule without manual intervention for the
manipulation, movement, transformation, archiving or backing up a set of data.
join
In relational databases, an operation in which the data from two sets is combined into a larger result
set based on common or matching data values in each set.
join index
An index in which the values appear in two (or more) different files (or tables). It can then be used
for the rapid production of the join between the two on that domain without searching either of the
joined files, and without pre-storing the join. (Everest 2010)
join, inner
A form of join where only rows with the join conditions matching are returned. Where A.JC = B.JC,
only return rows where each row in A matches a row in B, and vice versa.
join, left
A form of table join where rows from the table on the left side of the join conditions are returned,
regardless of whether there is a match in the other table. Where A.JC = B.JC, return all rows in A
plus rows in B where B's join conditions match A's join conditions.
join, outer
A form of table join where data from both tables is included regardless of whether there is a match
to a row in the other table. Where A.JC = B.JC, returns all rows in A plus all rows in B, matching
where A's join conditions match B's join conditions.
join, right
A form of table join where rows from the table on the right side of the join conditions are returned,
regardless of whether there is a match in the other table. Where A.JC = B.JC, return all rows in B
plus rows in A where A's join conditions match B's join conditions.
journal
1. Generally, a written record of observations and experiences.
2. In data management, a file that contains database activity details for rollback and recovery. SEE
ALSO log.
Julian calendar
A solar calendar that established the months and years, with a leap day every four years. Was
supplanted by the Gregorian calendar in AD 1582.
Julian date
The date expressed as a simple number, used by astronomers and historians due to the simple math
involved. The Julian calendar started on January 1, 4713 BCE at noon. The Julian date for noon on
CE 2011 February 20 is JD 2455613.000000.
junction entity
SEE data entity, associative.
junk dimension
SEE dimension, junk.
just-in-time
Information delivered at the time it will be used, not before and not after.
K
Kagi chart
SEE chart, Kagi.
kaizen
The Japanese word for “continuous improvement”.
kernel entity
SEE entity, kernel.
key
1. A data item or combination of data items designated to uniquely identify a particular entity instance
or table row. SEE ALSO identifier.
2. Adjective. Critically important.
key constraint
SEE constraint, key.
key, candidate
A key that can uniquely identify occurrences of an entity. Each occurrence must have a different key
value, and every attribute in the key is needed to uniquely identify each occurrence. Such identifiers
are “candidates” to become a primary key, and candidate keys not selected as the primary key are
considered alternate keys.
key, composite
A key that is made up of more than one attribute.
key, hash
A number based on the hash value of a string.
key, intelligent
A key value that has some meaning assigned to the values other than just as a link to rows in other
tables. For example, the key of a CALENDAR_DIM could be of the format “CCYYMMDD” in
order to enable truncation of the key for partitioning into time-based segments.
key, partial
A portion of a key, in which each value of the partial key may identify more than one unique instance
(record) in the file or data set.
key, secondary
A key whose value identifies a set of occurrences in a data structure that share common
characteristics. Access by secondary keys may return multiple occurrences, where access by a primary
key is assured to find no more than one occurrence.
key, superkey
A set of attributes in a dataset such that there are no repeated value sets. Each combination of the
values in the attributes in a superkey are unique.
keyword
A term found in a document, indexed to enable document search and location.
Kilobyte (Kb)
A thousand bytes of storage.
knowledge
1. Generally, expertise; familiarity gained through experience or association; cognizance, the fact or
condition of knowing something; the acquaintance with or the understanding of something; the fact
or condition of being aware of something, of apprehending truth or fact.
2. Understanding; awareness, cognizance, and the recognition of a situation and familiarity with its
complexity. Understanding of the significance of information; information in perspective, integrated
into a viewpoint based on the recognition of patterns (such as trends and causes) based on other
information and experience. (DAMA-DMBOK Guide, 1st edition, pg. 3.)
knowledge base
A database of rules, usually expressed in an if/then format, used in an expert system.
knowledge worker
Anyone who works for a living by understanding information. A type of information consumer.
Knowledge workers seek to gain expertise though the understanding of information, and then apply
that expertise by making informed and aware decisions and actions.
knowledge, explicit
Knowledge that is easily codified, shared, documented, and explained.
knowledge, tacit
Knowledge that is based on experience and not easy to share, document, or explain.
L
label
A title or tag applied to a data attribute that concisely describes the entity or attribute type and/or
content for ease of sorting, filtering, or scanning for relevance.
language
1. A system of communication using sounds (spoken language) or symbols (written language).
2. DCMI element in element set Instantiation: the terminology set used to describe a resource. SEE
ALSO Dublin Core Metadata Initiative.
latency
The measure of time between two events, such as the initiation and completion of an event, or the
read on one system and the write to another system.
layer
A group of functionally related components within an architecture representing a level of abstraction
different from other layers within the architecture.
layer chart
SEE chart, layer.
learning curve
The average time it takes a person to learn how to use or master a tool or technique.
left join
SEE join, left.
legacy data
Data that comes from production files and databases that stand outside of, or came from a previous
form of, the organization’s data architecture.
legacy system
An application implemented outside of, or from a prior version of, an organization’s application
architecture. Usually an older application that may be slated for eventual replacement. Legacy systems
are often frustrating because they are difficult to change, few people know exactly what they do and
how they do it, and/or the technology on which they are dependent is becoming obsolete and
unsupportable.
level
A group of codes that are characterized by homogeneous coding, and where the parent of each code
in the group is at the same higher level of the hierarchy.
leverage
Taking full advantage of a resource to effectively achieve a desired outcome.
lexicon
1. In general, a glossary or dictionary.
2. In data management, a computer-readable data dictionary of attributes.
liability
A possession and responsibility for current economic costs, such as a debt; the opposite of an asset.
lie factor
In charts, a ratio of the size of a graphical representation of an item or effect to the size of the effect
within the data itself. The lie factor describes how far off the graphic representation shown is in
respect to the actual data driving the chart.
lifecycle
1. The set of valid states of an object, arranged in sequence from “birth” to “death.” Usually depicted in
a state transition diagram.
2. A shorthand reference for the software development lifecycle (SDLC).
lifecycle diagram
SEE chart, lifecycle diagram.
line chart
SEE chart, line.
lineage
The relationship path from a start point to a finish point.
lineage, data
The path that a data attribute travels between systems, and the alterations made during that journey.
lineage, meta-data
The path that meta-data travels between the source systems and the meta-data repository.
linear
Relating to a line, or with a progression that strongly resembles a line.
list partitioning
SEE partitioning, list.
literal
1. A constant value provided for a variable.
2. Adjective. Describes conformance with strict meaning.
local index
SEE index, local.
location transparency
A mechanism that keeps the specific physical address of an object from a user. The physical location
is resolved within the system so that operations can be performed without knowledge of the actual
physical location.
lock
A means of preventing access to data while a process is updating that data.
lock contention
Occurs when a one process requests and is denied a lock to a resource because it is held by another
process.
lock granularity
The level of data that is involved in a lock. Lock granularity can be at any level of physical data:
database, block, set of tables, row, or column level, and include any amount of data contained within
those objects.
log
In data management, a collection of records that describe the sequence of events that occur during
DBMS execution, recorded for use in database recovery in the event of a DBMS failure. SEE ALSO
journal.
log shipping
The process of sending transaction log backups to other servers for reapplying the logs to replicate
the state of a system.
logistic regression
A modeling technique where unknown values are predicted by known values of other valuables
where the dependent variable is binary type. SEE ALSO predictive modeling.
Logistics
The management of flows of goods, information, resources, etc. in a logical progression between
points of origin, consumption, and destruction.
log-write-ahead
A process of writing data where modifications are written to a log before being applied to the stored
data at rest.
loose coupling
An arrangement whereby components can be easily attached and detached, enabling easier
configuration changes. SEE ALSO design.
M
Machine-Readable Cataloging (MARC)
A standard for representation and communication of bibliographic and related information in
machine-readable form, created by the U.S. Library of Congress.
macro
A stored sequence of commands or instructions which, when invoked, will execute a series of
commands or keypresses. Commonly used to automate repetitive tasks within applications such as
word or number processors.
Magic Quadrant
SEE chart, Magic Quadrant.
magnetic north
The point on the earth's surface at which the magnetic field points vertically down from the northern
hemisphere. Not the same as true north.
mainframe
A centralized computer architecture, once dominant but still widely used and supporting a very large
number of applications.
majority classifier
A modeling technique that includes rules that result in non-outlier data directly into the model
calculations. SEE ALSO predictive modeling.
manageability
1. The possibility of something being controllable and supportable.
2. Describes the ability to create and maintain an effective environment. (DAMA-DMBOK Guide, 1st
edition, pg. 134.)
managed availability
The ability to deliver consistent, predictable access to data whenever users need it.
managed replication
Planning for and control of replicated data, ensuring there is a master record and that copies of that
record are consistent, and that minimal redundant and non-productive replication occurs.
mandatory
1. Adjective. Required, not optional. A dependency must be fulfilled.
2. In SQL, and many DBMSs, mandatory equates to “NOT NULL” or “NOT NULLABLE”
constraints.
mandatory relationship
SEE relationship, mandatory.
Many-to-one (M:1)
The reverse of one-to-zero-or-Many or one-to-one-or-Many.
map
Verb. To associate mathematically every member in a given set with at least one member of another
set.
mapping
A list of source and target entities and attributes linked by a set of instructions.
marimekko chart
SEE chart, marimekko.
Mario chart
SEE chart, waterfall.
market segmentation
The process of identifying groups of potential customers with similar needs and/or characteristics
who are likely to exhibit similar purchase behavior.
market share
A company’s sales expressed as a percentage of the sales for the total industry.
markup
Verb. To annotate documents by inserting tags to offset and identify sections.
markup language
A set of symbols or rules that describe format, structure, or display of a document or file separate
from the actual contents.
mashup
A combination of application outputs, content objects, or data attributes that create new structures
from the parts.
mashup, content
Content that collects from multiple external sources to create a new object.
mashup, data
A display of non-integrated data attributes from multiple sources that can be combined to form new
display objects.
mass customization
The definition and delivery of customized products and services on a wide-scale and cost-effective
basis, typically by leveraging information technology. A concept defined and developed by Joseph
Pine of IBM.
master data
The data that provides the context for business activity data in the form of common and abstract
concepts that relate to the activity. It includes the details (definitions and identifiers) of internal and
external objects involved in business transactions, such as customers, products, employees, vendors,
and controlled domains (code values).
master file
An old term for database, used before relational databases were commonplace. Now used as a
concept in Master Data Management regarding the official version of master data.
matching
The process of comparing rows in data sets to determine which rows describe the same thing and are
therefore either complimentary or redundant. SEE ALSO similarity analysis.
match-link rule
SEE rule, match-link.
match-merge rule
SEE rule, match-merge.
materialized view
A view that is actually stored as a separate object in order to optimize performance.
matrix
A set of arrays of the same type, where each array is seen as a dimension. Matrices are used to analyze
and document the linkages and relationships between the occurrences of one dimension with the
occurrences of the other dimensions. SEE ALSO array; scalar.
maturity model
A structured collection of characteristics of effective processes at progressive levels of quality and
effectiveness. A maturity model provides a common language and a shared vision for process
improvement, a standard for benchmarking, and a framework for prioritizing actions. A maturity
model assumes a natural evolutionary path for organizational process improvement.
mean
The result of dividing the sum of all values within a set by the count of all values included.
median
The center-most value in an ordered set of values. If the set quantity is even, then the average of the
two center-most values.
Megabyte (Mb)
A million bytes of storage; a thousand Kilobytes.
member
An individual instance of a population.
membership
The state of belonging to a set.
message
An electronic request or reply expressed in data. Messages can be expressed in the form of XML
documents.
message broker
A software intermediary function that dispatches messages to the correct sites.
meta muck
An environment created when meta-data exists in multiple products and repositories (DBMS
catalogs, DBMS dictionaries, CASE tool encyclopedias, BI information directories).
meta-data architecture
SEE architecture, meta-data.
meta-data integration
The process of joining differing attributes in multiple meta-data repositories to allow for easier
access.
meta-data repository
1. Generally, any structured database of meta-data, often in support of a particular tool.
2. Specifically, an integrated database of meta-data, considered the official representation of meta-data
in an enterprise. A repository contains business and technical meta-data from multiple sources. It
may be updated in real time or in batch.
meta-data synchronization
The process of consolidating and relating data attributes with the same or similar meaning from
different systems.
meta-data, administrative
Meta-data that records lifecycle attributes of a resource, including acquisition, access rules, locations,
version control/differentiations, lineage, and archival/destruction.
meta-data, business
The names and business definitions of entities and tables, attributes and columns, and defined
domain data values that establish the consistent shared meaning of data. Non-technical meta-data of
interest to business professionals, ideally defined by business data stewards. Business meta-data
includes the names and definitions of business entities and their data attributes in a conceptual or
logical data model, as well as the equivalent business definitions for tables and columns in a physical
data model or implemented database. Business meta-data also includes the descriptions of business
relationships between business entities, the business rules that govern those relationships, the logical
business names and definitions of domain values (code values), and the descriptions of rules
governing use of these code values.
meta-data, descriptive
Meta-data that characterizes and catalogs the actual resource.
meta-data, preservation
Meta-data that describes the physical condition of stored resources, and changes to that physical
condition over time (such as copying to different media).
meta-data, process
Meta-data is that defines and describes the characteristics of other systems (processes, business rules,
programs, jobs, tools, etc.).
meta-data, structural
Meta-data that describes resources at atomic levels, and at higher levels including how the atomic
data attributes are related.
meta-data, technical
The physical characteristics of data found in a database, including physical names, datatypes, lengths,
precision and scale of numeric data attributes, statistics, source locations (lineage), and code values. It
may also include data about programs and other technology.
meta-data, usage
Meta-data that represents how the resource is accessed, processed, and output.
metamodel
1. Generally, a model that specifies one or more other models.
2. In Meta-data Management, a model of a meta-data system or a data model for a meta-data repository.
method
1. Generally, a formalized system of principles, practices, and procedural methods used to build
systems, perform a process, or solve a problem, including organizational arrangements, deliverables,
and time lines.
2. In object-oriented design and programming, a function bound to a class as part of its overall
behavior, executed in response to a message.
methodology
The study of methods.
metric
1. Generally, a unit of measure selected used to monitor and control a process.
2. In Business Intelligence, a calculated value based on measurements used to monitor and control a
process or business activity. Most metrics are ratios comparing one measurement to another.
metro map
SEE chart, metro map.
microdata
SEE atomic data.
middleware
Software that allows applications to interact across hardware and network environments.
milestone
Used in project management, marking the end of a task or set of tasks, usually accompanied by some
sort of event or a record of approval.
MINUS
SEE EXCEPT.
MIP-o-suction
The consumption of a high percentage of CPU cycles by a database query.
misclassification
Erroneous classification of a subject into a category in which the subject does not belong
mode
The value occurring most frequently in a range of values.
model
An abstract representation of how something is built (or is to be built), or how something works (or
is observed as working).
model management
The storage and configuration management of models (including change control).
model, conceptual
A model of any kind that is independent of implementation and usage context, consisting solely of
basic entities and relationships at a high level.
model, contextual
Generally, a very high-level block diagram listing the main terms and definitions for a business or
system.
Model-View-Controller (MVC)
An application design paradigm for object-oriented applications that separates the underlying
“model” of business objects from the “view” presentation interface objects and the “controller”
events that users perform. By overlaying the controller functions on the view, it creates the illusion of
direct manipulation.
morals
In general, a person's internal rules of behavior. Contrast with ethics. SEE ALSO professional ethics.
Motivation Configuration
Zachman Framework cell name, intersection of Why/Motivation Reasons and Component
Assemblies/Technicians as Implementers.
Motivation Definition
Zachman Framework cell name, intersection of Why/Motivation Reasons and Business
Concepts/Executive Leaders as Owners.
Motivation Identification
Zachman Framework cell name, intersection of Why/Motivation Reasons and Scope
Contexts/Strategists as Theorists.
Motivation Instantiation
Zachman Framework cell name, intersection of Why/Motivation Reasons and Operations Instance
Classes/Workers as Participants.
motivation model
In architecture, describes reasons for establishing organized business plans, their attributes, priorities,
and inter-relationships.
Motivation Reasons
Zachman Framework column name, matches Why.
Motivation Representation
Zachman Framework cell name, intersection of Why/Motivation Reasons and System
Logic/Architects as Designers.
Motivation Specification
Zachman Framework cell name, intersection of Why/Motivation Reasons and Technology
Physics/Engineers as Builders.
multi-dimensional
1. Adjective. In physics and mathematics, describes an item that has a greater-than-two minimum
number of coordinates necessary to specify it.
2. Adjective. In data analysis, describes a data attribute that must be described by two or more distinct
parameters.
multi-dimensional array
A group of data cells arranged by the dimensions of the data. For example, a spreadsheet exemplifies
a two-dimensional array with the data cells arranged in rows and columns, each being a dimension. A
three-dimensional array can be visualized as a cube with each dimension forming a side of the cube,
including any slice parallel with that side. Higher dimensional arrays have no physical metaphor, but
they organize the data in the way users think of their enterprise. Typical enterprise dimensions are
time, measures, products, services, geographical regions, etc.
multimedia storage
Storage devices for multimedia files that also contain applications to display or play the multimedia
files.
multiplicity
Characteristic of a relationship as either at most one (exclusive) or more than one. (Everest 2010)
multi-tier architecture
SEE architecture, multi-tier.
multi-valued attribute
SEE data attribute, multi-valued.
multi-valued dependency
SEE dependency, multi-valued.
multi-variable model
A model showing evaluation based on multiple variables.
munge
To transform data such that the original data is unrecognizable without knowing the transformation
rules and sequence, which is unpredictable or inconsistent. Sometimes accomplished with
substitution of characters in order to obfuscate the original data. Occasionally explained as “modify
until not guessed easily”.
N
naïve Bayes classifier
A modeling technique where each attribute describes a class independent of any other attributes that
also describe that class. SEE ALSO predictive modeling.
name
1. Generally, the designation of an object by a linguistic expression.
2. In data modeling, a class word, abbreviated usually to nm.
namespace
A defined domain within which a name is guaranteed to be unique and findable. A reusable reference
glossary of XML attributes found at a URL address. Entity and attribute names used in XML
documents can be easily qualified by associating them with namespaces identified by URL references.
naming convention
SEE naming standard.
naming standard
A pattern of assigning names, words, or parts of words to objects, often intended to convey meta-
information that promotes consistency and ease-of-use while avoiding conflicts.
N-ary
Adjective. Relating to N (some number) of entities in a relationship, the number of attributes or
columns in an entity table, the number of arguments or operands that a function requires, or more
specifically, the number of objects in a predicate in ORM.
natural key
SEE key, business.
nearline storage
Data that is not on line but is capable of being accessed and placed on line within 15 seconds of the
access request. Archived data may be kept in nearline storage. SEE ALSO archive.
nested query
SEE subquery.
nested relation
An attribute of a relation, itself representing a relation. In a relational DBMS, a column that contains
a table in each row.
network
1. Visually, a graph of nodes and connections where more than one entry point for each node is
allowed.
2. In architecture, a topological arrangement of hardware and connections to allow communication
between nodes and access to shared data and software.
Network Configuration
Zachman Framework cell name, intersection of Where/Network Nodes and Component
Assemblies/Technicians as Implementers.
network database
SEE database, network.
Network Definition
Zachman Framework cell name, intersection of Where/Network Nodes and Business
Concepts/Executive Leaders as Owners.
Network Identification
Zachman Framework cell name, intersection of Where/Network Nodes and Scope
Contexts/Strategists as Theorists.
Network Instantiation
Zachman Framework cell name, intersection of Where/Network Nodes and Operations Instance
Classes/Workers as Participants.
network node
1. An addressable device or connection point attached to a network.
2. Zachman Framework column name, matches Where.
Network Representation
Zachman Framework cell name, intersection of Where/Network Nodes and System
Logic/Architects as Designers.
Network Specification
Zachman Framework cell name, intersection of Where/Network Nodes and Technology
Physics/Engineers as Builders.
network taxonomy
SEE taxonomy, network.
niche marketing
A marketing segmentation strategy in which the firm focuses on serving one segment of the market.
Similar to segmented marketing, but a niche is a small distinguishable segment that can be uniquely
served.
node
In graph theory, a generic representation of something in a graph; could be a type (representing a
population), or an individual instance. Usually represented by some icon (e.g., box, circle) in the
diagram.
noise
Unwanted sound or data included with or around wanted sound or data.
nomenclature
A systematic naming of things or a system of names or terms for things. In classification,
nomenclature involves a systemic naming of categories or items.
nominal number
A number system that has no arithmetic or ordering significance, hence can only be compared as
match or no match. Other operators are meaningless - multiply, divide, add, subtract, comparative
(<, =,...), or Boolean. This is probably the most commonly occurring type of numerical data in
database. Examples include account numbers. Often used as codes for particular characteristics or
values in the real world.
non-clustered index
SEE index, non-clustered.
non-functional requirement
SEE requirement, non-functional.
non-identifying relationship
SEE relationship, non-identifying.
non-information
A set of data in context that is not relevant or timely to the recipient. (Brackett 2011)
non-tabular data
SEE data, non-tabular.
normal distribution
A mathematical distribution of points around an axis that represents the mean of the data set values,
which resembles a bell (low at both ends and high in the middle).
Copyright © 2011 by DAMA International. All rights reserved. page 175
normal form
A characteristic of a file or table that indicates that it satisfies one or more of the rules of
normalization. Not all rules must be satisfied in order. SEE ALSO normalize.
normalize
1. Verb. Generally, to impose standards or regulations, or bring to a desired state.
2. Verb. In data modeling, to apply rules to a record-based data structure to reduce redundancy, such
that each data attribute is stored
a) as few times as necessary, and
b) with its determinant as the identifier.
The rules of normalization are applied only within a record or table, and cannot be applied until an
identifier is first designated for the table. Even though the rules of normalization are numbered, there
is no necessary ordering -- they can be applied in any order, and some may be satisfied while others
are not. For example, a record may have no transitive dependencies (thus not violating the condition
for 3NF) but may have a partial dependency (thus failing 2NF).
normative model
A model that describes how a system should work according to assumptions or pre-defined
standards.
noun
A type of word that describes a person, a place, a thing, or an idea. One of the syntactic components
used to construct sentences according to a grammar.
n-tier architecture
SEE architecture, multi-tier.
null
The absence of any value. A null value tells you the value does not exist. It does not denote why the
value is missing. Placing a zero or blank in the row would not reflect the accurate state of the row,
because zero and blank are values. In ASCII, null is hex 00, blank is hex 20, and zero is hex 30. In
EBCDIC, null is hex 00, blank is hex 40, and zero is hex F0. SQL supports the notion of null values
as a way to search for missing data.
null hypothesis
1. Generally, the prediction that an observed result is not due to any inherent systemic cause.
2. In data analysis, the prediction that one variable has no association with and responds independently
of another variable.
number
A class word, abbreviated usually to num.
O
obfuscate
1. Generally, to conceal through confusion.
2. In data security, the process of permanently scrambling or replacing data with unrelated values in
order to conceal the original data permanently. Used to remove sensitive information from data
when being transferred to unsecure systems.
object
1. In the real world, a person, place, thing, or concept. SEE ALSO entity; instance.
2. In an object-oriented design, an instance of a class or a population of objects or events.
3. In an object-oriented program relating to object type, the code in memory that describes the
attributes and allowable behavior of a business object, interface object or control object.
object class
1. Generally, a set of ideas, abstractions, or things in the real world that can be identified with explicit
boundaries and meaning, and whose properties and behavior follow the same rules.
2. Specifically, the definition of a set of objects that conforms to that definition.
3. In an object-oriented design, a collection of objects (instances) that conform to the same definition
of structure and behaviors.
object model
1. A collection of objects or classes.
2. The description of an object's properties.
objective
A specific, quantified target of achievement against which progress towards attainment can be
measured. Achieving an objective contributes to achievement of a more general goal. A good
objective is “SMART” (simple, measurable, attainable, realistic, and timely).
objectivity
The practice of not including personal biases or preferences during an evaluation; evaluating on the
agreed-to standards and facts alone.
Object-Oriented (OO)
1. Adjective. Generally, a form of design organized around objects (instances) where objects can be built
(re)using other similar objects. For efficiency, the notion of object class was added to define a set of
objects only once. SEE ALSO object.
2. Adjective. In data management, a style of software development (analysis, design, programming and
testing) organized around classes of objects in which the code encapsulates the data. Object-oriented
approaches promote data hiding, cohesion, class inheritance, and reuse.
occurrence
1. Generally, an event; the fact that an event happened.
2. In data management, a physical record, row or document representing an entity instance.
occurrence group
In the data resource, a set of entities in mathematics. (Brackett 2011)
occurrence of record
A specific record selected from a set of redundant records as the authoritative record, into which
data from the other records can be consolidated.
octal
A numbering system using a base of 8.
one-to-Many (1:M)
SEE one-to-zero-or-Many; one-to-one-or-Many.
one-to-one (1:1)
The characteristic of a relationship in which a member of population A must be related to only one
member of population B, and vice versa. SEE ALSO cardinality; relationship.
one-to-one-or-Many (1:1..M)
The characteristic of a relationship in which a member of population A must be related to one or
more members of population B, but not vice versa. SEE ALSO cardinality; relationship.
one-to-zero-or-Many (1:0..M)
The characteristic of a relationship in which a member of population A may be related to one or
more members of population B, but not vice versa. SEE ALSO cardinality; relationship.
OnLine Analytical Processing, Real Time (RTOLAP) Alternate form: Real Time OLAP
A version of OnLine Analytical Processing where data is stored in RAM memory rather than on disk,
and calculations are performed on-the-fly, rather than stored. RTOLAP has a limitation of size since
all data must be stored in RAM, and therefore space is at a premium; calculation results are therefore
not stored.
ontology
1. Generally, the grammar rules for usage of a controlled vocabulary to create meaningful expressions
within a domain or subject area.
2. In data management, a semantic data model defining structure and meaning, typically used to model
non-tabular data. SEE ALSO schema.
open architecture
SEE architecture, open.
open data
A philosophy and practice requiring that some data be freely available to everyone, without
restrictions from copyright, patents, or other mechanisms of control.
open source
Software code that is freely available - meaning the customer can download it, install it, begin using it,
or customize it without paying.
OpenCourseWare (OCW)
The process of making course materials from learning institutions available on the Internet.
operational activity
In the DAMA-DMBOK Functional Framework, a service and support activity performed on an on-
going basis. SEE ALSO activity group.
operational data
SEE data, operational.
operational database
SEE database, operational.
operational DBA
SEE DataBase Administrator, operational.
operational performance
Measurable outcomes relative to stated enterprise-wide operational goals.
operational system
Application that runs the business on a day-to-day basis using real time data (typically OLTP
databases).
optimize
To configure a system to perform more in accordance with some expected measurement than
another configuration.
optional
1. Adjective. Generally, not required. Opposite of mandatory.
2. Adjective. Characteristic of an attribute, where a value is not required by an entity constraint (NULLs
allowed in SQL).
3. Adjective. Characteristic of a relationship in which an entity or object instance need not relate to any
member of the other entity type population, i.e., can be an orphan.
optional relationship
SEE relationship, optional.
order
1. Generally, the sequence of items or events in time or ranked by some quality, such as importance.
2. In data services, a message sent which trigger the delivery of required data. There are three types of
orders: select order, transform order, and propagate order.
ordinal number
A number that signifies sequence within a set, or a rank, solely for comparison or matching. Does
not signify quantity, and cannot be meaningfully added or subtracted.
organization
In general, an arrangement of people dedicated to common goals, who control the organization's
performance, and have a clear delineation of what is included in the organization.
organization chart
SEE chart, organization.
Organization Configuration
Zachman Framework cell name, intersection of Who/Organization Groups and Component
Assemblies/Technicians as Implementers.
Organization Definition
Zachman Framework cell name, intersection of Who/Organization Groups and Business
Concepts/Executive Leaders as Owners.
Organization Groups
Zachman Framework column name, matches Who.
Organization Identification
Zachman Framework cell name, intersection of Who/Organization Groups and Scope
Contexts/Strategists as Theorists.
Organization Instantiation
Zachman Framework cell name, intersection of Who/Organization Groups and Operations Instance
Classes/Workers as Participants.
Organization Representation
Zachman Framework cell name, intersection of Who/Organization Groups and System
Logic/Architects as Designers.
Organization Specification
Zachman Framework cell name, intersection of Who/Organization Groups and Technology
Physics/Engineers as Builders.
organizational intelligence
The collected data of the enterprise about itself and its environment, in current context.
organizational knowledge
Information that is of significance to the organization, is combined with experience and
understanding, and is retained. It is information in context with respect to understanding what is
relevant and significant to a business issue or business topic-what is meaningful to the business.
(Brackett 2011)
organizational model
A model showing the organization of a particular system or company.
orthogonal
Adjective. Literally, to be at right angles. Typically refers to characteristics that are as independent of
each other as possible. For example, data and processes are considered orthogonal to each other.
outer join
SEE join, outer.
outlier
A data instance that is extremely deviated from the mean of the rest of the data set.
outrigger dimension
SEE table, outrigger.
outrigger entity
SEE table, outrigger.
outrigger table
SEE table, outrigger.
outsourcing
The process of arranging services to be done by an external party, to replace the need for an internal
party to perform those services.
P
package
1. In software, a pre-developed application software product available for purchase.
2. In object-oriented software, a unit of deployment, usually consisting of many related object-oriented
classes.
paging
1. The process of splitting data sets into finite blocks (pages) for optimal storage performance.
2. The process of retrieving and/or swapping parts of data sets (pages) as they are required.
paradigm
An example of pattern that represents an acquired way of thinking about something that consciously
and/or unconsciously shapes thought and action.
parallelism
The ability to perform multiple functions in parallel.
paralysis by analysis
A process of ongoing analysis and modeling to make sure everything is complete and correct. People
want to analyze a situation to the nth degree, working the problem forever, before moving ahead.
(Brackett 2011)
parameter
In data management, a data attribute provided as input to a system or process.
Pareto diagram
SEE chart, Pareto.
parity
A single bit that represents the count of the preceding bits that equal 1 in value. Used to check data
transmission - if the parity bit says there were an odd number of 1 values, and the data shows an
even number of 1 values, then there is an error in transmission.
parse
To analyze a sequence using pre-determined rules to determine content or value.
partial key
SEE key, partial.
partition
1. Verb. In general, to split into parts according to some rule or condition.
2. Verb. To logically and/or physically segregate data in a single table into multiple files each containing
groups of similar rows that are more easily maintained or accessed. Relational DBMSs typically
provide this functionality. Partitioning of data aids in performance and utility processing.
3. One segment of a dataset identified by a specific condition.
partitioning condition
An attribute or expression used to differentiate parts of data sets.
partitioning, composite
A method of partitioning a table horizontally using one partitioning method first, and then
partitioning the resulting set using another partitioning method. Common types are range-list and
range-hash.
partitioning, hash
A method of partitioning a table horizontally where the partitions are identified by a hash value
derived from one or more columns in the table.
partitioning, horizontal
A method of partitioning that divides a single logical table into multiple physical tables based on the
row values of the primary key column. All columns generally appear in each table, but each table
contains a subset of the logical table's rows (either discrete or overlapping subsets). Employed when
there is a regular need to access, or to isolate, a readily identifiable subset of the rows to meet
security, distribution, and performance optimization needs. Note: It is only horizontal because of the
convention used to represent a table, namely, columns across the top, and rows down.
partitioning, list
A method of partitioning a table horizontally where the partitions are identified by presence of a
column's value in a list of possible values.
partitioning, range
A method of partitioning a table horizontally where the partitions are identified by the upper and
lower bounds of one or more columns in the table.
partitioning, vertical
A method of partitioning that segregates the columns of a single logical table into multiple physical
tables. All logical rows may appear in each new table, but each new table contains a subset of the
original table's columns. Some columns may be redundant across tables, and will necessarily be so for
primary key columns. Vertical partitioning is employed when there is a regular need to access, or to
isolate, a readily identifiable subset of the “parent” table's columns. This technique may be effective
to meet security, distribution, and usability requirements. Note: It is only vertical because of the
convention used to represent a table, namely, attributes across the top, and entity instances down.
SEE ALSO table, outrigger.
password
A string of characters used to help authenticate a user logging into a system.
path
A series of one or more arcs between nodes in a graph.
performance
Measurable outcomes relative to stated goals.
performance accountability
Assuming responsibility for achieving objectives and disclosing present and future variances against
those objectives.
performance alert
Notification via email, portal or wireless device of a key trend or business event that is associated
with an objective.
performance charting
SEE chart, performance charting.
performance scorecarding
A strategic management process designed to translate an organization’s mission statement and overall
business strategy into specific, quantifiable objectives and to monitor the organization’s performance
in terms of achieving those objectives.
performance test
SEE test, performance.
period
1. Generally, the interval of single repetition of a varying quantity or a motion, or phenomenon that
repeats itself regularly.
2. Specifically, a quantity of time.
periodicity
Refers to the frequency of compilation of the data (e.g., a time series could be available at annual
frequency but the underlying data are compiled monthly, thus have a monthly periodicity).
persistence
A state or status that lasts beyond the process that created it.
persistent data
Data that outlasts the execution of a particular program, stored in the records of the enterprise and
available for reuse.
perspectives chart
SEE chart, perspectives.
pervasive computing
A ubiquitous, wireless, always-on, networked world.
Petabyte (Pb)
One thousand Terabytes.
petri net
SEE chart, petri net.
Copyright © 2011 by DAMA International. All rights reserved. page 191
physical schema
SEE schema, database.
pie chart
SEE chart, pie.
pivot
Verb. To rotate the view of data. Used in multi-dimensional analysis with OLAP tools, but can also
be performed in spreadsheet applications.
pivot table
A multi-dimensional modeling scheme (specifically found in Microsoft Excel and many Business
Intelligence tools).
plan
1. Verb. In general, to define goals and objectives and to devise approaches and activities to realize or
achieve these goals.
2. Verb. In information services, to define mission and purpose statements, goals, objectives, critical
success factors, strategy, architecture, programs, and projects for an enterprise, and then to assess
and analyze to guide decisions. Often considered the first phase in the software development
lifecycle, although occurring before project initiation.
3. An organized set of goals, objectives and activities.
plan-do-check-act
A circular process for continuous improvement. Also called the Shewhart cycle after its developer,
W. A. Shewhart.
planning activity
In the DAMA-DMBOK Functional Framework, an activity that sets the strategic and tactical course
for other data management activities. Planning activities may be performed on a recurring basis. SEE
ALSO activity group.
platform
Any base of technologies on which other technologies or processes are built and operated to provide
interoperability, simplify implementation, streamline deployment and promote maintenance of
solutions. The platform resource consists of hardware and system software.
pointer
A data type that serves specifically only to refer to another data point's storage address.
Poisson distribution
A distribution curve where the tail on one side is longer and thinner than the other.
policy
A statement of a selected course of action and high-level description of desired behavior to achieve a
set of goals.
polymorphism
1. In object oriented design, the implementation of subclasses of a parent class so that identical requests
sent to different child classes are handled differently without the caller knowing.
2. A collection of things (instances) which are considered part of the same set, called a type.
population
1. In general, a collection of things (instances) which are considered part of the same set, called a type.
2. The process of loading and replicating multiple rows of data into a relational database on a one-time
or recurring basis. SEE ALSO data loading; data replication.
population cartogram
SEE chart, area cartogram.
portal
A website designed to be the “front door” through which a user accesses links to relevant sites.
Typically, a portal site has a catalog of sites, a search engine or both. A portal site may also offer e-
mail and other services to entice people to use that site as the main point of entry or portal to the
web.
portfolio
A collection of assets, liabilities and/or issues to manage.
portfolio diagram
SEE chart, portfolio.
Copyright © 2011 by DAMA International. All rights reserved. page 193
portfolio management
SEE IT portfolio management.
practice
A repeatedly performed, customary way of doing something.
precision
The level of detail of a data attribute, usually expressed as the number of numeric places to the right
of a decimal point. SEE ALSO scale.
predicate
1. Generally, a statement that can be evaluated as true or false. For example, WHERE clauses of SQL
SELECT statements define predicate logic for qualifying rows. SEE ALSO arity.
2. In Object Role Models, a labeled relationship on one or more objects. Depending on the number of
objects, a predicate may be unary, binary, ternary, etc.
prediction
The estimation of future results or other data set results based on existing data.
predictive analysis
Methods of directed and undirected knowledge discovery, relying on statistical algorithms, neural
networks and optimization research to predict and recommend actions based on discovering,
verifying and applying patterns in data to predict the behavior of customers, products, services,
market dynamics and other critical business activity.
predictive analytics
An area of statistical analysis that deals with extracting information from data and using it to predict
future trends and behavior patterns
predictive modeling
The process of estimating the probability of a specified outcome given an input data set.
preservation meta-data
SEE meta-data, preservation.
primary deliverable
One of the DAMA Functional Framework Environmental Elements. The information and physical
databases and documents created as interim and final outputs of each function. Some deliverables are
essential, some are generally recommended, and others are optional depending on circumstances.
(DAMA-DMBOK Guide, 1st edition, pg. 13.)
prime word
A word used in the name of an attribute to identify its domain (logical datatype). SEE ALSO class
word.
primitive
1. Adjective. In general, simple, unsophisticated, and/or uncomplicated.
2. In data modeling, an entity or class that has no supertypes. There is disagreement over whether there
are just a few semantic primitives from which all other entities can be considered subtypes, or not.
principle
Formally, a fundamental law, doctrine, premise, or assumption. Informally, a rule or code of conduct.
privacy
In data security, the need for access control and usage monitoring. (DAMA-DMBOK 1st edition, pg.
296.)
private
Adjective. Unavailable for observation at all, or only to a limited set of observers. SEE ALSO
confidentiality. Opposite of public.
probabilistic matching
A type of matching that relies on statistical analysis of a sample data set to project results on the full
data set. (DAMA-DMBOK Guide, 1st edition, pg. 310.)
procedural DBA
SEE DataBase Administrator, procedural.
procedure
1. Generally, a series of low-level steps or tasks in a process followed in a defined and repeatable order.
2. In data management, a set of instructions for human users of computer systems that augment the
automated work flow.
process
Generally, an action (or set of related actions in a value chain) occurring to accomplish something.
Functions, activities, procedures, steps and tasks are subtypes of process. The execution or carrying
out of a process constitutes behavior. Not the same as a functionally similar grouping of actions; the
actions have to have a logical progression or relationship.
process architecture
SEE architecture, process.
process class
SEE class, process.
Process Configuration
Zachman Framework cell name, intersection of How/Process Transformations and Component
Assemblies/Technicians as Implementers.
process control
The systematic evaluation of the performance of a process, taking corrective action if performance is
not acceptable.
Process Definition
Zachman Framework cell name, intersection of How/Process Transformations and Business
Concepts/Executive Leaders as Owners.
process flow
SEE chart, process flow.
process framework
Specifies methods for business and systems planning, analysis, and design processes. (DAMA-
DMBOK Guide, 1st edition, pg. 67.)
Process Identification
Zachman Framework cell name, intersection of How/Process Transformations and Scope
Contexts/Strategists as Theorists.
Process Instantiation
Zachman Framework cell name, intersection of How/Process Transformations and Operations
Instance Classes/Workers as Participants.
process management
The analysis, control, and improvement of a business process and its inter-related steps.
process owner
The person responsible for process definition, execution and control.
Process Representation
Zachman Framework cell name, intersection of How/Process Transformations and System
Logic/Architects as Designers.
Process Specification
1. The definition or specification of how a process is to be carried out. A computer program is a
process specification, to be carried out by the computer (the processor).
2. Zachman Framework cell name, intersection of How/Process Transformations and Technology
Physics/Engineers as Builders.
Process Transformations
Zachman Framework column name, matches How.
product
Generally, something produced. The output or result of a process. Something tangible, as opposed to
a service. Synonymous with an output, result or deliverable.
product architecture
SEE architecture, product.
Copyright © 2011 by DAMA International. All rights reserved. page 197
profession
1. An occupational calling (vocation) requiring specialized knowledge
2. The body of persons engaged in that vocation.
professional certification
A designation earned by a person verifying that the individual has the knowledge, skills or abilities
that qualify him/her to perform a job. While licensing is required by law, certification is generally
voluntary. Professional certifications are awarded by certification body, usually a professional
organization. People become certified through training and/or passing an exam. Individuals often
advertise their status by appending the abbreviation for the designation to their name. SEE ALSO
profession.
professional development
Training, mentoring and continuing education in a professional field of study to attain, maintain and
extend one’s mastery of professional skills. SEE ALSO profession.
professional ethics
Principles of standards of conduct with which all members of that profession are expected to
comply. SEE ALSO ethics; morals.
program
A set of projects that address a common set of goals and objectives; a long-term initiative made up of
several parallel or incremental projects.
Program Evaluation and Review Technique (PERT) Alternate form: pert chart
A model for project or process management to evaluate tasks involved in the project or process in
order to find the shortest duration possible.
program management
The planning, supervision and control of a program.
project
An effort with a defined purposes, start and finish.
project management
The planning, supervision and control of a project.
project specification
A detailed description of a proposed effort.
Proof-Of-Concept (POC)
A minimal implementation or execution of a process that serves as a sample sufficient to prove the
success of the whole implementation or process.
propagated data
Data that is transferred from a data source to one or more target environments according to
propagation rules normally based on transaction logic. SEE ALSO data replication.
property
An attribute or a relationship of an object.
protocol
A set of conventions that govern the communications between processes. Protocol specifies the
format and content of messages to be exchanged.
prototype
1. An artifact in iterative development. A prototype may be disposable or the base for further
incremental development.
2. Verb. To create a test artifact for the sole purpose of determining whether the design is feasible or
will be successful given environmental restraints.
provenance
Originally from the French provenir, meaning to come from. It represents the origin or source of
something, the history of ownership, the location of an object. The term is used mostly for art work,
but is now used in a wide range of fields, including science and computing. (Brackett 2011)
psychographics
Used in Customer Relationship Management, a segment of a population delineated by certain shared
preferences, activities, or attitudes.
public
Adjective. Available for observation by everyone and anyone. Opposite of private.
public disclosure
The act of making information or data readily accessible and available to all interested individuals and
institutions.
public domain
Works that have no copyright restrictions on them, are freely available, and usable without
restriction.
publish/subscribe
SEE subscribe and publish.
publisher
1. The entity or organization that makes something available for common use.
2. DCMI element in element set Intellectual Property: an entity that provides accessibility to a resource.
SEE ALSO Dublin Core Metadata Initiative.
purge
1. Verb. Generally, to remove, cleanse, or empty.
2. Verb. In data management, to permanently delete data. SEE ALSO archive.
Q
qualitative
Adjective. Cannot be measured in terms of objective quantitative values according to generally
accepted scales, and is instead measured using individual, subjective, scales. Contrast with
quantitative.
quality
1. The degree to which a set of inherent characteristics fulfills requirements. Quality is a multi-faceted
concept. The dimensions of quality that are considered most important depend on user perspectives,
needs and priorities, which vary across groups of users.
2. Adjective. In common use, of or having superior or high quality, or being perceived as superior,
without specific qualification.
3. A peculiar and essential character, the degree of some characteristic meeting expectations. Quality is
defined through four virtues -- clarity, elegance, simplicity, and value.
quantitative
Adjective. Can be measured in physical terms according to generally accepted scales of quantity,
amount, or range. Contrast with qualitative.
quantity
A class word, abbreviated usually to qty.
query
1. Generally, a request.
2. In data management, a statement written and issued against a database for decision support. It may
be an ad hoc query or a reusable standard query that populates an existing report format.
Colloquially, any SELECT SQL statement.
3. Verb. To request data from a database.
query governor
A facility that terminates a database query when it has exceeded a predefined threshold of elapsed
time, used computing resources or estimated cost.
query tool
Software that allows a user to create and direct specific questions to a database. These tools provide
the means for pulling the desired information from a database. They are typically SQL-based tools
and allow a user to define data in end-user language.
R
radar chart
SEE chart, radar.
RAID 0
Block striping without parity or mirroring. A method of data storage configuration consisting of
writing blocks of data across different data storage devices with no redundancy so that no two
contiguous blocks of data are written to the same storage device. This method allows contiguous
blocks to be accessed simultaneously, improving I/O performance. If one device fails, the data is
lost. This method is best suited for volatile storage where speed is more important than failure
prevention. SEE ALSO Redundant Array of Independent Disks.
RAID 0+1
Striped sets in a mirrored set. A second striped set is created to mirror the original striped set. If
devices fail within one mirrored set, data can be recovered from the other mirror, but if devices fail
within both mirrored sets, the data may be lost. SEE ALSO Redundant Array of Independent Disks.
RAID 1
Mirroring without parity or striping. A method of data storage configuration consisting of
simultaneous writes over mirrored data storage devices. If one device fails, all data can be recovered
from the other. SEE ALSO Redundant Array of Independent Disks.
RAID 3
Byte-level striping with parity disks. A method of data storage configuration where the disk rotation
is synchronized and the bytes and parity are distributed across the disks such that sequential bytes
can be read at once with multiple spindles, resulting in fast reads. If one device fails, it is possible to
reconstruct the data from the parity data written to other disks. SEE ALSO Redundant Array of
Independent Disks.
RAID 4
Block striping with a parity disk. A method of data storage configuration where sequential blocks are
stored on different disks, and parity is calculated and stored on another disk. May have performance
bottlenecks due to the parity being limited to one disk. If one device fails, it is possible to reconstruct
the data from the parity data written to other disks. SEE ALSO Redundant Array of Independent
Disks.
RAID 5
Block striping with striped parity. A method of data storage configuration where sequential blocks
are stored on different disks, and parity values for those blocks are striped along with the data. If one
device fails, the data can be reconstructed from the parity data written to other storage devices. SEE
ALSO Redundant Array of Independent Disks.
RAID 6
Block striping with double distributed parity. A method of data storage configuration where
sequential blocks are stored on different disks, and parity is calculated and stored twice on different
disks. If up to two devices fail, the data can be reconstructed from the parity data written to other
storage devices. SEE ALSO Redundant Array of Independent Disks.
range
A restricted set of attribute values, defined by a pair of minimum and maximum, or start and end,
values.
range partitioning
SEE partitioning, range.
rate
A class word, abbreviated usually to rt.
readiness assessment
A process of reviewing environmental, resource and work effort measurements in order to predict
success of an implementation.
real number
A number that contains no imaginary components, of unspecified precision. Almost always displayed
with decimal points. Contrast with integer.
reasonableness
Expectations within specific operational contexts. (DAMA-DMBOK Guide, 1st edition, pg. 297.)
record
1. Generally, evidence of an organization's activities. These activities can be events, transactions,
contracts, correspondence, policies, decisions, procedures, operations, personnel files, and financial
statements. Records can be physical documents, electronic files and messages, or database contents.
2. In data management, the physical representation of data about an instance. A collection of fields
about an instance generally representing the information pertaining to an instance of a member of
the type population.
recoverability
The ability to reestablish service after interruption, and correct errors caused by unforeseen events or
component failures. (DAMA-DMBOK Guide, 1st edition, pg. 134.)
recovery
1. Generally, the restoration of something to its status before an event or at a point in time.
2. In data management, the restoration of a database to its state as of a different point in time, typically
in the wake of a hardware or software failure.
recovery, backward
Consists of restoring a snapshot backup copy of the database (a valid snapshot copy of the data as of
a point in time), followed by the re-execution of logged change activity since the backup copy was
made. This method essentially reverses (rolls back) all changes after the snapshot was taken, and re-
executes from that point forward.
recovery, roll-forward
Consists of restoring a full backup copy of the database, followed by re-execution of logged change
activity since the backup copy was made. This method essentially starts over from a full copy of the
database, and re-executes from that point forward.
recursive
1. Adjective. A process that can be infinitely repeated using one instance of the execution of the process
as the input of the next instance of execution. A process calling itself.
2. Sometimes used to refer to a relationship in a data structure. SEE ALSO relationship, reflexive.
recursive relationship
SEE relationship, recursive.
redundancy
The storage of multiple copies of logically identical data. Physically, the data may or may not be
identical across systems, and it is not known which is most current or accurate.
redundancy control
Management of a distributed data environment to limit excessive copying, update, and transmission
costs associated with multiple copies of the same data. Data replication is a strategy for redundancy
control with the intention to improve performance. SEE ALSO managed replication.
Redundant Array of Independent Disks (RAID)
A technology for configuring a logical data storage device across multiple physical devices to improve
performance, availability or both. The primary goal is fault tolerance as in most configurations data
can be recovered after a device failure and in some cases, without interruption. SEE ALSO RAID 0;
RAID 1; RAID 10; RAID 0+1; RAID 2; RAID 3; RAID 4; RAID 5; RAID 6.
reference data
1. Generally, any data used to organize or categorize other data, or for relating data to information both
within and beyond the boundaries of the enterprise. Usually consists of codes and descriptions or
definitions.
2. In financial services, refers to both reference and master data together.
reference entity
SEE entity, reference.
referential integrity
1. In data management, constraints that govern the relationship of an occurrence of one entity to one
or more occurrences of another entity. These constraints may be automatically enforced by the
DBMS. For instance, every purchase order must have one and only one customer. If the relationship
is represented using a foreign key, then the foreign key is said to reference a file or entity table where
the identifier is from the same domain. Having referential integrity means that IF a value exists in the
foreign key of the referencing file, then it must exist as a valid identifier in the referenced file or table.
2. The condition that exists when all intended references from data in one column of a table to data in
another column in the same or a different table are valid. (DAMA-DMBOK 1st edition, pg. 297.)
reflexive relationship
SEE relationship, reflexive.
refresh
A process of taking a snapshot of data from one environment and moving it to another
environment, overlaying old data with the new data each time.
registry
1. Generally, a permanent collection of data related to some topic or collected through some process.
2. In Meta-data Management, an application which stores meta-data for querying, and which can be
used by any other application in the network with sufficient access privileges.
regression
Using one data set to predict the results of a second.
regression analysis
A statistical technique which seeks to find a line which best fits through a set of data as plotted on a
graph, seeking to find the cleanest path which deviates the least from any instance within the set.
regulatory compliance
The act of meeting the requirements of government legislation or self-regulating industry
organizational mandates. For instance, public companies are required to provide specific financial
reporting and disclosure. Regulators in the U.S. include the securities authorities (the SEC), tax
authorities (the IRS) and banking authorities (the FDIC).
relation
1. Generally, the manner in which two objects may be associated, ordered, connected, or otherwise
grouped, using inherent attributes.
2. In data management, a physical structure (a flat file, inverted list, linked list, bitmap, hash table, b-
tree, etc.) consisting of a set of one or more columns and zero or more rows. The relation is between
the row category and column category.
3. DCMI element in element set Content: a relationship between any two resources or a resource and
another instance of that same resource. SEE ALSO Dublin Core Metadata Initiative.
relational database
SEE database, relational.
relationship
1. Generally, an instance of a connection between two or more things.
2. In data management, a link between two entities describing the business rules governing how the two
entities interact in the real world, including their cardinality and dependency. Typically described
using Verb parts of speech.
relationship cardinality
SEE cardinality.
relationship generalization
SEE generalization, relationship.
relationship notation
In data modeling, the particular graphical representation of a relationship and its characteristics. Most
frequently, a relationship is represented by an arc drawn between two related things, with additional
notations to reflect its characteristics. For example, the multiplicity characteristic of many (more than
one) could be represented by a fork, an arrow, a double headed arrow, an asterisk, or the letter M.
relationship, attributed
In data modeling, a relationship between two entity types which itself has attributes. If the
relationship is M:M, then the attributes on the relationship cannot logically be stored in either of the
related entities.
relationship, binary
In data modeling, a relationship that involves two entity types or object types. The relationship could
be defined on a single entity type, in which case it is called a reflexive relationship. In such a
relationship, the members play different roles in the relationship, for example, a boss-employee
relationship where all bosses are employees. Some have called a reflexive relationship unary because
it involves a single population, but that is incorrect. It is still binary, with the members playing two
different roles in the relationship.
relationship, contingent
In data modeling, a relationship where an instance of one entity is required, but an instance of the
other entity is not required. Example: A product may not have any orders, but each order must have
at least one product.
relationship, hierarchical
In data modeling, a one-to-many relationship between two entity types (which could be the same
entity type, SEE relationship, reflexive), in which the entity type on the many side of the relationship
is dependent upon the entity type on the one side; sometimes called a parent-child relationship. An
instance of the child must relate to one and only one instance of the parent entity type.
relationship, identifying
In data modeling, a relationship where the child instance cannot be uniquely identified without
knowing the parent instance or the identifier (key) of the parent instance in
that relationship.
relationship, mandatory
In data modeling, a relationship where the both instances are required to be present. Example: An
account must have an account holder. Each account holder must have at least one account.
relationship, non-identifying
In data modeling, a relationship where the child instance can be uniquely identified without knowing
the parent instance or the identifier (key) of the parent instance in that relationship.
relationship, optional
In data modeling, a relation instance where not all instances of either entity participate in the
relationship. Example: A company location may not have assigned orders (a data center), and orders
may not have assigned company locations (for a service done over the phone).
relationship, recursive
1. In data modeling, a relationship within processes in which a process calls itself during execution.
Sometimes used to refer to a reflexive relationship in a data structure.
2. SEE relationship, recursive.
relationship, reflexive
In data modeling, a relationship in a data structure in which individual instances are related to other
instances of the same type, i.e., in the same file or table. For example, in an employee table, an
employee could be related to some other employee who is their boss. Sometimes (erroneously) called
a recursive relationship, which instead applies to a process calling itself.
relationship, ternary
In data modeling, a relationship that involves three entity types or object types. If only two of the
participating entity types are required to uniquely identify instances of the relationship, then it would
also be an attributed, binary, many-to-many relationship. For example, Employee, Skill, and
Proficiency Level. For each Employee-Skill combination (a M:N relationship), if there can only be at
most one Proficiency Level, then it can be viewed as a binary relationship between Employee and
Skill, and Proficiency Level would be an attribute of the binary relationship.
release management
The process responsible for planning, scheduling and controlling the movement of Releases to test
and live environments. The primary objective of Release Management is to ensure that the integrity
of the live environment is protected and that the correct components are released. SEE ALSO ITIL.
reliability
1. Generally, closeness of the initial estimated value to the subsequent estimated value.
2. In data management, the ability for a technology component (server, application, database, etc.) or
group of components to consistently perform its functions within stated timeframes.
repeating group
A group of data items that together describe something; an attribute with multiple values within an
instance of its parent entity. When related to some other entity in a “something-to-many”
relationship, and stored in the related entity type, it becomes a “sub-entity” within that “parent”
entity. (Everest 2010) Also called a nested relation.
replication
1. Generally, the process of making copies of something.
2. In data management, the copying of data from a data source to one or more target environments
based on rules.
replication transparency
In data management, the state when data is replicated but users cannot see which one of the
duplicated systems is fulfilling the data request.
reporting
An automated business process or related functionality that provides a detailed, formal account of
relevant or requested information.
repository
1. SEE meta-data repository.
2. Loosely used, any database or file (not recommended for use).
repository environment
SEE meta-data repository; managed meta-data environment.
requirement
1. A customer expectation of a product or service. May be formal or informal, stated or unstated,
needed or desired.
2. A formal statement of need for data, functionality or other characteristic.
requirement specification
The formal documentation of requirements, typically using standardized formats and templates,
often stored in a requirements database for further analysis and validation/testing/verification.
requirement, business
Requirements stated in business terms or ordinary language what must be delivered or accomplished
in order to return value.
requirement, functional
A description of expected behavior of a system given a defined set of inputs or events.
requirement, non-functional
A description of expected operation of a system separate independent of any specific tasks or
functions, and may not be measureable in the same terms as other requirements. Includes reliability,
efficiency, portability, etc.
requirements analysis
The elicitation, specification and modeling of requirements.
reserved word
A term that has meaning outside of a computer language, and therefore may not be used for other
than its defined purpose.
responsibility
1. Accountability for performance of a function, activity or task by a role.
2. In object-oriented design, synonymous with a method.
retention
1. Generally, the process of keeping something in place.
2. In data management, the length of time that data is stored or archived before purging.
reverse engineering
The process of deriving a draft physical model representing an implemented system (application
and/or database) from automated scanning of the implemented application and database objects, as a
first step towards redesign.
reverse index
SEE index, reverse.
rich picture
SEE chart, rich picture.
right join
SEE join, right.
rights
1. Generally, the entitlements or freedoms that may or may not be acted upon by an entity.
2. In database management, the permissions to perform CRUD activities assigned to a user or role.
3. DCMI element in element set Intellectual Property: rules regarding access to and through a resource.
SEE ALSO Dublin Core Metadata Initiative.
risk assessment
A process to identify potential situations that could cause change to an effort from both internal and
external forces, assign severity and priority ranks in order to determine overall risk, managing a
situation or project to mitigate or minimize the occurrence of risk, and if the risk materializes, to
minimize loss or damage.
risk management
Managing a situation or project so that minimum loss or damage will result if a risk identified by a
risk assessment materializes.
roadmap
Defines the actions required to move from current to future (target) state. Similar to a high-level
project plan.
role
1. Generally, a label assigned to a set of connected behaviors, rights and obligations.
2. In data modeling, the way in which entities of one type relate to entities of another type in a
relationship. SEE ALSO Object Role Model.
3. In data security, a name used to refer to the logical set of related responsibilities assignable to a
person or organization, and to parties with these assigned responsibilities.
role class
SEE class, role.
roll up query
Queries that summarize data at a level higher than the previous level of detail.
rollback
To undo the database statements performed prior to a commit of the transaction.
roll-forward recovery
SEE recovery, roll-forward.
rolling forecast
A forecasting method that shifts planning away from historic budgeting and forecasting and moves it
toward a continuous predictive modeling method. It requires access to relevant information from
multiple data sources as well as business processes throughout the enterprise. Rolling forecasts can
be updated continuously throughout the year to improve accountability.
root cause
The underlying fundamental cause of a problem. Also known as the basic problem, as opposed to a
symptom.
rooted
A graph in which one node is designated as the root node (starting point) for a search.
rose diagram
SEE chart, polar area.
row
A set of column values describing one logical instance in a relational database table. Technically
called a tuple in relational calculus. Equivalent to a record in a flat file.
rubber-banding
The movement of a line or object with one point held fixed and the rest of the object stretches or
compresses around that point as other points are moved.
rule
A statement that applies logic or an algorithm to information values to determine a resulting output
or action, or to constrain the data relation or its valid values.
rule, authorization
Criteria used to determine whether or not a person or software agent has permission to access data
or perform a process.
rule, business
1. Generally, a formally stated constraint governing the characteristics or behavior of an object or
entity, or the relationship between objects or entities, used to control the complexity of the activities
of an enterprise.
2. In data quality, constraints that can be used to validate the contents of a database. The defined
characteristics of a database actually constitute business rules, such characteristics as
dependency/optionality, multiplicity/exclusivity, and value set constraints.
rule, match-link
In data analysis, a rule that identifies and cross-references records that appear to relate to a master
record, without updating the content of the cross-referenced record. (DAMA-DMBOK Guide, 1st
edition, pg. 186.)
rule, match-merge
In data analysis, a rule that matches records and merges the data from these records into a single,
unified, reconciled, and comprehensive record. (DAMA-DMBOK Guide, 1st edition, pg. 186.
S
Sales Intelligence (SI)
Technologies, applications, and practices for the collection, integration, analysis, and presentation of
information to help salespeople keep up to date with clients, prospect data and drive business. In
addition to providing metrics for win-loss and sales confidence , SI can present contextually relevant
customer and product information.
sample
1. Generally, a limited part or subsection of something intended to represent the qualities of the whole.
2. In data analysis, a selected subset of data from a population, used to better understand the entire
population. Samples should be representative of the entire population.
3. Verb. To select a subset of data to test in order to deduce patterns, which then can be compared to
the whole for accuracy. Sampling typically has shorter processing windows, and therefore can be
tested more often until a pattern is defined.
satisficing
Verb. To choose the first sensible solution, rather than examining all alternate solutions before
deciding. Combines the ideas of “satisfy” and “suffice”.
scalability
The ability to scale to support larger or smaller volumes of data and more or less users. The ability to
increase or decrease size or capability in cost-effective increments with minimal impact on the unit
cost of business and the procurement of additional services.
scalar
A data attribute of zero dimensions; a constant value. SEE ALSO array; matrix.
scale
1. Generally, an expression of size, volume or scope; magnitude, expressed as a ratio of the
representation to the actual size.
2. Verb. In architecture, to change in size or capability according with requirements with minimal effort
or resource impact.
3. In a numeric figures, the number of places to the left of the decimal place. SEE ALSO precision.
scatter diagram
SEE chart, scatter plot.
scenario modeling
The design of a dynamic process or financial model to support “what if” analysis, predicting
outcomes when variables are changed.
schema
1. Generally, a diagrammatic representation of the structure, framework, or population of instances of
something.
2. In data management, a data structure.
3. In some database software, a synonym for an instance of a DBMS.
4. In XML, the set of allowable XML tags, usually expressed in DTD or XSD.
schema diagram
A data model diagram that expresses the structure of a data model in graphical terms, depicting types,
but not including any actual or sample data values, i.e., instances. (Everest 2010)
schema, database
The stored physical database definition derived from a set of DDL statements. The database schema
contains all the information that defines the logical database and its physical storage.
schema, snowflake
A variation of a star schema in which the dimension tables are normalized, to remove all transitive
dependencies.
schema, star
A set of relational tables representing multi-dimensional data, comprised of a single, central fact table
surrounded by a single level of de-normalized dimension tables. Star schemas implement dimensional
data structures with de-normalized dimensions. Snowflake schemas are an alternative to star
schemas, containing at least one dimension normalized at least one level. The star schema and
processes for managing them were invented by Ralph Kimball and first implemented in Red Brick,
since purchased by Informix, and then IBM.
schema, XML
A set of XML tag definitions used to define and document XML applications.
scope
1. Generally, the boundary within which something has control, power, or obligation.
2. In project management, the definition of the business or technology impacted by a project's intended
work.
Scope Contexts
Zachman Framework row name, matches Strategists as Theorists.
scorecard
An Business Intelligence application that helps manage an organization’s performance by reporting a
standard set of performance measurements against objectives, internal targets and industry
benchmarks. SEE ALSO Balanced ScoreCard.
scrum
An iterative, incremental methodology for project management often seen in agile software
development, a type of software engineering.
search engine
An information retrieval system designed to search data sets and return results based on input
criteria.
secondary key
SEE key, alternate.
securability
The ability to provide differing access to individuals according to the classification of data and the
user’s business function, regardless of the variations.
security
The prevention of unauthorized access to a database and its data, and to applications that have
authorized access to databases.
SELECT
A SQL statement (command) that specifies data retrieval operations for rows of data in a relational
database.
selection criteria
1. Generally, the features and characteristics used to narrow choices within a larger field. For example,
when evaluating product alternatives.
2. In data queries, the data values used to select records to form a subset of instances/records/rows of
a file or table, expressed as a Boolean expression.
semantic
Adjective. Having to do with meaning, usually of words and/or symbols (the syntax). Part of semiotic
theory.
semantic equivalence
The degree to which data stored in multiple places is semantically equal in value. For example, one
database might use the code value F to designate female gender, another might use the code value 1
to designate female gender; these code values are semantically equal, because they stand for the same
thing. The measure of semantic equivalence is the percentage of records appearing in both databases
whose values are semantically equal.
semantic layer
A representation of data using business terms to enable ease of understanding and use.
semantic mapping
An association of meaning to entities and attributes. SEE ALSO meta-data, business.
semantic network
SEE chart, semantic network.
semantics
The study of the meaning behind the syntax (signs and symbols) of a language or graphical
expression of something. The semantics can only be understood through the syntax. The syntax is
like the encoded representation of the semantics. SEE ALSO syntax.
semiotic theory
A theory describing the relation between signs and symbols, and their interpretation. It consists of
syntax, semantics, and pragmatics. (Brackett 2011)
semiotics
The branch of linguistics concerned with signs, symbols, syntax, and semantics, and their use in
communication.
sequence
1. Generally, the order of things, or an ordering of things, often numbered.
2. In data management, a database object that generates numbers in order.
sequence chart
SEE chart, sequence.
server
1. A software service that provides standard functions for clients in response to standard messages
from clients.
2. The physical computer hardware from which services are provided.
service
A software component invoked via a message. The message may come from outside the service’s
environment, and the results returned by the service may be delivered outside the service’s
environment (to the requesting component on a different platform).
serviceability
The ability to determine the existence of problems, diagnose their causes, and repair and/or solve the
problems. (DAMA-DMBOK Guide, 1st edition, pg. 134.)
set theory
The branch of mathematics that studies collections of objects, and the manipulation of those sets.
Shewhart cycle
The “plan-do-check-act” cycle of continuous improvement developed by Walter Shewhart and
popularized by W. Edwards Deming. Also known as the Deming Cycle.
shredding
The parsing of an XML document into constituent parts to be stored atomically in a relational
database.
sigma
1. A Greek letter (∑) that stands for the sum of a group of numbers.
2. In statistics, a shorthand term for standard deviation. The Greek letter omicron (ό) is used to stand
for the standard deviation of an entire population and the lower case English letter (s) is used to
stand for the standard deviation of a sample set. SEE ALSO six sigma.
signal-to-noise ratio
The ratio of meaningful data to nonsense within a data stream.
similarity analysis
A process in which the degree of similarity between any two records are scored, most often based on
weighted approximate matching between a set of attribute values in the two records. If the score is
above a specified threshold, the two records are a match and most likely represent the same entity.
(DAMA-DMBOK Guide, 1st edition, pg. 310.)
simplex
Adjective. Describes a system that allows communication between two endpoints in only one
direction. SEE ALSO half duplex; full duplex.
simulation model
A model that shows the expected operation of a system based solely on the model.
simultaneous update
A process of automatically searching for other objects that may need updating based on the update
of one object.
single-variable model
A model showing evaluation based on one variable.
sink
In data flow diagrams, where data leaves the data flow, without any definition of the target. SEE
ALSO source.
situational awareness
The perception of an environment's state and conditions at a point in time.
six sigma
1. Generally, a rigorous and disciplined statistical analysis methodology to measure and improve a
company’s operational performance, practices and systems.
2. In many organizations, simply a measure of quality near perfection.
3. In data quality, a level of quality in which six standard deviations of a population fall within the upper
and lower control limits of quality, allowing no more than 3.4 defects per million parts or
transactions.
slice
A subset of a multi-dimensional array corresponding to a single value for one or more members of
the dimensions not in the subset. (DAMA-DMBOK Guide, 1st edition, pg. 236.) SEE ALSO dice.
snaky chart
SEE chart, snaky.
snapshot
The state of an object, a system, or a collection of attributes regarding a state at a particular point in
time.
snapshot fact
SEE fact table, snapshot.
snowflake schema
SEE schema, snowflake.
snowflake table
SEE table, snowflake.
software
Computer programs, including operating systems, utilities, tools, Database Management Systems and
application programs. Software is intellectual property that imposes semantic meaning on input from
humans and devices.
software engineering
SEE Systems Development LifeCycle.
sound
A class word, abbreviated usually to snd.
soundex
An algorithm developed to index sounds in order to sort or search text with like sounds.
source
1. In data management, a specific data set, meta-data set, database, or meta-data repository from where
data or meta-data are available.
2. In data flow diagrams, where data enters the data flow. SEE ALSO sink.
3. DCMI element in element set Content: the origination of a resource. SEE ALSO Dublin Core
Metadata Initiative.
source code
Human-readable procedural or declarative programming statements that can be compiled into
equivalent machine-readable code.
source database
SEE database, source.
SPARQL endpoint
A SPARQL endpoint enables users (human or other) to query a knowledge base via the SPARQL
language. Results are typically returned in one or more machine-processable formats. Therefore, a
SPARQL endpoint is mostly conceived as a machine-friendly interface towards a knowledge base.
Both the formulation of the queries and the human-readable presentation of the results should
typically be implemented by the calling software, and not be done manually by human users.
sparse index
SEE index, sparse.
specialization
The process of dividing an entity or object class into subtypes based on differing attributes,
relationships and behaviors. The resulting subtypes inherit the characteristics of their more
generalized supertype. Contrast with generalization.
specification
The formal documentation of requirements, data definitions and design descriptions to direct further
development.
spectrogram
SEE chart, spectrogram.
spider
SEE web crawler.
spider chart
SEE chart, radar.
sponsorship
To support or aid, but not lead, another in an effort.
spread
The extent of variation in a set of items. SEE ALSO standard deviation.
spreadmart
A concept describing the use of spreadsheets to approximate Business Intelligence applications. Due
to the limitations of spreadsheet applications, multiple redundant applications are developed, and
spread across an organization, making it difficult to impose standards and formal support.
spreadsheet
A two-dimensional format for representing and storing information having columns and rows. A
spreadsheet can be used to store a relational table or flat file, assuming the columns have headings
and the rows represent entity instances. NOTE: Every flat file or table can be represented in a
spreadsheet, but not every spreadsheet is a relational table, even though it consists of columns and
rows.
SQL compliant
Conformity to current ANSI or ISO standards for SQL specifications.
staging area
SEE data staging area.
stakeholder
An organization, person, process, or system that can be affected by a change to a system or process.
stakeholder map
SEE chart, stakeholder map.
standard
A model or example established by authority, custom or general consent, used in measurement and
comparison of quality, value, quantity or extent.
standard deviation
A widely used measure of variability that measures the spread in a set of items; the square root of the
variance from the mean; a percent of items in a set fall within a range of the mean plus or minus a
standard deviation. SEE ALSO sigma; six sigma.
standard query
A stored, reusable SQL query that can be issued with or without modification as dynamic SQL to the
database. Frequently users provide different parameter values to variables in the standard query to
deliver different result sets.
star schema
SEE schema, star.
state
1. Generally, the way something is at a point in time as described by its attributes. State is something
that is, as opposed to something that happens. Opposite of behavior.
2. In modeling, a stage in the lifecycle of an entity or object class. Transition to a state is triggered by an
event. A state is represented by a status code attribute value.
3. Part of a state transition diagram, which is data-centric, versus a data flow diagram, which is process-
centric.
state diagram
SEE state transition diagram.
static query
A stored, precompiled SQL query, optimized for access against a particular database design.
statistical analysis
The examination of data to see patterns of probability or effects from causes.
steward
Originally from the old English term sty ward; a person who was the ward of the sty. These people
watched over the stock and were responsible for the welfare of the stock, particularly at night when
the risks to the welfare of the stock were high. (Brackett 2011)
stewardship
The careful, responsible management of something entrusted to one’s care on behalf of others. SEE
ALSO data stewardship.
stochastic
Adjective. Involving some chance, randomness, or uncertainty. For example, stochastic analysis.
stop-lighting
A technique using colored circles to identify the content of a data attribute. The colors are defined by
a set of predefined thresholds. SEE ALSO scorecard.
stored procedure
A precompiled code routine stored within a Database Management System.
Strategists as Theorists
Zachman Framework row name, matches Scope Contexts.
strategy
A set of decisions that set a direction and define an approach to solving a problem or achieving a
goal.
strategy canvas
SEE chart, parallel coordinates.
strategy map
SEE chart, strategy map.
structural meta-data
SEE meta-data, structural.
structure
A hierarchical classification for identifying relationships between categories.
structure, hierarchical
A data structure made up of hierarchical relationships between entity types. A hierarchical structure is
not a tree structure since the parent entity type and child entity type in any hierarchical relationship
need not be from the same population (not homogeneous).
structured
Adjective. Arranged in a definite pattern of organization; manner of construction; the arrangement of
particles or parts in a substrate or body, arrangement or interrelation of parts as dominated by the
general character of the whole; the aggregate of attributes of an entity in their relationships to each
other, the composition of conscious experience with its attributes and their combination. (Brackett
2011)
structured data
SEE data, structured.
style sheet
A set of structured hints to be applied to a family of documents to create a particular type of display.
subject
1. A topic or central idea.
2. DCMI element in element set Content: the area of focus of a resource. SEE ALSO Dublin Core
Metadata Initiative.
subject area
1. Generally, a discipline or branch of knowledge.
2. In data modeling, a group of related entities or tables, logically grouped for presentation and analysis
as a view to part of a data model.
subquery
A query called within another query.
subtype
A specialized subset of occurrences of a more general entity type, having one or more additional
attributes or relationships not inherent to other occurrences of the entity. SEE also supertype;
generalization; specialization; primitive.
summarization table
Tables created along commonly used access dimensions to speed query performance, although the
redundancies increase the amount of data in the warehouse. SEE ALSO aggregate data.
super
Adjective. Over and above, higher in quantity, quality, or degree; exceeding a norm, in excessive degree
or intensity, surpassing all or most others of its kind; situated or placed above, on, or at the top of;
having the ingredient present in a large or unusual large proportion; constituting a more inclusive
category than that specified; superior in status, title, or position. (Brackett 2011)
superkey
See key, superkey.
supertype
A more generalized entity of which some occurrences belong to a more specialized subtype. SEE
ALSO subtype; generalization; specialization; primitive.
supply chain
The optimal flow of product from site of production through intermediate locations to the site of
final use.
surrogate key
SEE key, surrogate.
symmetric encryption
SEE encryption, private key.
synchronous
Adjective. Describes a style of communication in which the requestor waits for a reply.
synonym
1. A term that has the same or nearly same value as another term, but has a different label. Contrast
with homonym.
2. In a database, an object that serves to refer to another object, encapsulating rights or protecting
ownership.
syntax
The rules governing the encoded representation of a set of semantics, using certain constructs,
notations, and grammar. SEE ALSO semantics.
synthesis
Verb. To put together; the combination of parts or individual items to form a whole; the production
of a substance by the union of components, or groups to form a whole. (Brackett 2011) SEE ALSO
analysis.
system
An interacting and interdependent group of component items forming a unified whole to achieve a
common purpose.
System Logic
Zachman Framework row name, matches Architects as Designers.
system of record
A system that stores the 'official' version of a data attribute.
system test
SEE test, system.
systems analyst
An IT or business professional responsible for identifying, understanding and specifying business
information requirements and system functional requirements, defining business process models,
participating in data modeling and information value chain analysis, defining test strategies and test
plans to verify requirements. Systems analysts also serve as liaisons between IT and business units
and as facilitators for organizational and cultural change. SEE ALSO business analyst; business
systems analyst.
systems thinking
The ‘fifth discipline” of a learning organization, which sees problems in the context of the whole
system, applications in the context of the entire value chain, and data as a shared, reusable enterprise
resource. SEE ALSO knowledge management.
T
table
In data management, a cluster of data attributes; a collection of data values associated with a
population of entities, each of which is described by the same set of attributes. A cluster of one or
more columns to represent information about the entities. Each attribute must be atomic (single
valued). SEE ALSO flat file; relation.
table scan
The process of examining all rows of data in a table sequentially.
table think
When the data modeler thinks first of tables when developing a data model for a user domain. At the
outset, everything must be represented in tables. As a consequence, they sometimes incorrectly
include data items in a table such that it violates the rules of normalization. NOTE: fact oriented
modeling schemes such as ORM do not model in terms of tables, rather just objects (encompassing
both entities and attributes) and relationships, hence avoiding the need for normalization at all.
(Everest 2010)
table, bridge
1. A term coined by Ralph Kimball to describe a Data Warehouse table with a multi-part key whose
purpose is to capture a many-to-many relationship that cannot be accommodated by the natural grain
of a single fact table or dimension table. Similar to an associative table, but specific to dimensional
modeling.
2. A table that serves to link two dimension tables with a many-to-many relationship that cannot be
resolved through a fact table. (DAMA-DMBOK Guide, 1st edition, pg. 215.) A table that captures
parent-child relationships within a variable-depth or ragged hierarchy to enable more efficient
traversal. (DAMA-DMBOK Guide, 1st edition, pg. 216.)
table, outrigger
In a snowflake schema data mart, a second-level dimension table linked to a primary level dimension
table and not to any fact table.
table, snowflake
A table that is a de-normalized hierarchical component of another dimension table.
tabular data
SEE data, tabular.
tacit knowledge
The knowledge that a person retains in their mind. It is relatively hard to transfer to others and to
disseminate widely. Also known as implicit knowledge. (Brackett 2011)
tag
Delimiters in a markup language than also contain information. Matched tags are used in pairs,
preceding and following text.
tangible asset
SEE asset, tangible.
target database
SEE database, target.
taxonomy
1. Generally, a collection of controlled vocabulary terms organized into a structure of parent-child
relationships. Each term is in at least one relationship with another term in the taxonomy. Each
parent's relationship with all of its children are of only one type (whole-part, genus-species, or type-
instance). The addition of associative relationships creates a thesaurus.
2. In content management, a vocabulary (the list of terms in a dialect of an organization or community)
organized into a hierarchy, generally to find terms easily.
3. The hierarchical structure for outlining topics. The Dewey Decimal System is an example of a
taxonomy. (DAMA-DMBOK Guide, 1st edition, pg. 80.)
taxonomy, facet
A taxonomy with a relationship between the center nodes and all other nodes. Facets are attributes of
the object in the center. An example is meta-data, where each attribute (creator, title, access rights,
key words, version, etc.) is a facet of a content object. (DAMA-DMBOK Guide, 1st edition, pg. 249.)
taxonomy, flat
A taxonomy with no relationship between equal categories. An example is a list of countries.
(DAMA-DMBOK Guide, 1st edition, pg. 249.)
taxonomy, hierarchical
A taxonomy with a tree structure of at least two levels and with bi-directional relationships. An
example is geography, from continent to address. (DAMA-DMBOK Guide, 1st edition, pg. 249.)
taxonomy, network
A taxonomy with both hierarchical and facet categories. Any two nodes in a network taxonomy link
based on their associations. An example is a thesaurus. (DAMA-DMBOK Guide, 1st edition, pg.
249.)
technical architecture
SEE architecture, technology.
technical meta-data
SEE meta-data, technical.
Technicians as Implementers
Zachman Framework row name, matches Component Assemblies.
technology
1. The application of knowledge to sustaining life, improving performance or productivity, conserving
resources or increasing human comfort.
2. One of the DAMA Functional Framework Environmental Elements. Categories of supporting
technology (primarily software tools), standards and protocols, product selection criteria and
common learning curves. (DAMA-DMBOK Guide, 1st edition, pg. 13.)
technology architecture
SEE architecture, technology.
Technology Physics
Zachman Framework row name, matches Engineers as Builders.
technology roadmap
SEE chart, technology roadmap.
template
A pre-existing form or outline that serves as a pattern guideline for creating a document,
specification or software object.
temple diagram
SEE chart, temple diagram.
Copyright © 2011 by DAMA International. All rights reserved. page 236
Terabyte (Tb)
A trillion bytes of storage; a thousand Gigabytes.
terminology analysis
The process of gathering terms in common use which will become the basis of a conceptual model
or vocabulary.
ternary
Adjective. Consisting of three components or values.
ternary relationship
SEE relationship, ternary.
test
Generally, a validation process that compares in an organized fashion the functionality or content of
a thing or process against pre-established requirements for that thing or process.
test data
A data set that has been specifically created to enable testing of some process using the data set as a
standard input.
test, beta
The process of testing a beta release.
test, integration
A validation process that evaluates functionality between individual components or modules.
test, performance
A validation process that evaluates the time of system performance during specific activities
compared to expected performance parameters.
test, regression
Retesting existing code using passed test cases to verify that nothing changed.
test, system
A validation process that evaluates hardware and/or software on a complete integrated platform to
evaluate compliance with requirements.
test, unit
A validation process that evaluates functionality of individual code sets or modules independent of
any other code set or module, using a defined set of data.
text
A class word, abbreviated usually to txt.
text mining
The process of evaluating unstructured text for patterns, extract actionable data and sentiment via
semantic analysis, statistical methods, etc.
thesaurus
A controlled vocabulary with both parent-child and associative relationships defined. SEE ALSO
taxonomy.
thrashing
A situation where a large amount of resources are involved in doing minimal amounts of work,
mostly due to collisions or contention for resources in database access.
three-tier architecture
SEE architecture, three-tier.
tier
A level of separation of computing responsibility. Originally, computer architecture was monolithic
with all processing occurring on the same machine. Over time, two-tier and three-tier systems
separated processing for user interfaces, application logic and data persistence. Current architecture is
n-tiered.
time
A class word, abbreviated usually to tm.
time series
A sequence of data points that can be related to points in time in some pattern of intervals.
time, transaction
The time period where a data value is stored in a database.
time, valid
The time period where a data value represents a true status in the real world.
time box
1. A period of time in which a task may be completed.
2. In project management, a technique for separating parts of a project schedule in order to distribute
work as well as management of that work.
timeline chart
SEE chart, timeline.
timeliness
1. The degree to which available data meets the currency requirements of information consumers.
2. The length of time between data availability and the event or phenomenon they describe.
time-variant
A system that has a dependence on time for the content of output.
Timing Configuration
Zachman Framework cell name, intersection of When/Timing Periods and Component
Assemblies/Technicians as Implementers.
Timing Definition
Zachman Framework cell name, intersection of When/Timing Periods and Business
Concepts/Executive Leaders as Owners.
Timing Identification
Zachman Framework cell name, intersection of When/Timing Periods and Scope
Contexts/Strategists as Theorists.
Timing Instantiation
Zachman Framework cell name, intersection of When/Timing Periods and Operations Instance
Classes/Workers as Participants.
Timing Periods
Zachman Framework column name, matches When.
Timing Representation
Zachman Framework cell name, intersection of When/Timing Periods and System Logic/Architects
as Designers.
Timing Specification
Zachman Framework cell name, intersection of When/Timing Periods and Technology
Physics/Engineers as Builders.
tipping point
A term coined by Malcolm Gladwell describing the point at which a previously rare phenomenon
begins to occur at an epidemic rate.
title
1. An identification assigned to an object.
2. DCMI element in element set Content: the name of a resource. SEE ALSO Dublin Core Metadata
Initiative.
token
1. A discrete collection of identifying information.
2. In operating systems, a container for security information about a user.
topology
The spatial layout and interconnections of any network.
traceable
Adjective. Capable of being related to steps in a process.
traffic
In a networked system, the number of packets traversing a network segment.
training set
A collection of data whose purpose is to be analyzed to discover patterns that can then be applied to
other data sets.
transaction
1. A business transaction is an event involving the exchange of products, money and/or data.
2. A system transaction is a unit of work including one or more actions performed together or not at
all, usually in support of a business transaction.
3. A database transaction is a complete atomic unit of work; a set of statements to perform CRUD
operations on data, in which the Database Management System must either complete performance of
all the statements, or none of the statements. As the process continues, it requests locks on various
database objects, according to the concurrent update protocols, deadlock handling scheme, and
backup scheme. Any database updates performed are held in limbo until the END transaction
statement is encountered. At that point, the system checks the integrity rules to ensure that the
database remains in a valid state relative to its definition. If the check shows no errors, the updates
are made permanent, and all locks on data are released. Otherwise, no changes are applied and the
system is reset to the transaction starting point.
transaction fact
SEE fact table, transaction.
transaction time
SEE time, transaction.
transactional system
An information system designed to store and record day-to-day business information, often
structured around events, business processes or business activities. These systems are optimized for
storing large volumes of data and processing a high volume of requests for small amounts of data,
but not for analyzing or aggregating data.
transformers
In data management, rules applied to change data.
transient data
Data that does not exist past the execution of a particular program.
transitive dependency
SEE dependency, transitive.
transitivity
In logic, a relationship where if A and B, and B and C, then A and C.
Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) and the Internet Protocol (IP) (TCP/IP)
A set of standard protocols used to organize data sent across a network.
tree
A graph in which child nodes do not have more than one parent. SEE ALSO chart; graph; structure,
tree.
tree structure
SEE structure, tree.
trend
A long-term movement in an ordered series, say a time series, which may be regarded (together with
the oscillation and random component) as generating the observed values.
trigger
A software routine guaranteed to execute when an event occurs. Often a trigger will monitor changes
to data values. A trigger includes a monitoring procedure, a set or range of values to check data
integrity, and one or more procedures invoked in response, which may update other data or fulfill a
data subscription.
true north
The direction from any location that points toward the geographic North Pole. Not the same as
magnetic north.
tuple
The formal mathematical term for a row in a relational table or record instance in a flat file.
two-key encryption
SEE encryption, public key.
two-phase commit
A transaction processing protocol that first ensures the transaction holds locks on all records
involved before committing any updates.
two-stage sampling
A sampling method that combines samples from a set of common groups, then takes samples from
the result.
type
1. Generally, a subdivision or category.
2. In data management, a population of instances defined by a common schema.
3. DCMI element in element set Content: the classification of a resource. SEE ALSO Dublin Core
Metadata Initiative.
type 0
SEE dimension, type 0.
type 1
SEE data attribute, type 1; dimension, type 1.
type 2
SEE data attribute, type 2; dimension, type 2.
type 3
SEE data attribute, type 3; dimension, type 3.
type 4
SEE dimension, type 4.
type 6
SEE dimension, type 6.
U
unary
1. Adjective. Consisting of only one component or value.
2. In Object Role Models, describes a predicate consisting of a single object.
undo
Verb. To rollback or undo a transaction prior to any commit of that transaction.
Unicode
A character set rich enough to represent languages such as Chinese.
UNION
A SQL set operator that concatenates two tabular SELECT answer sets with consistent column
structures into one distinct answer set table.
UNION ALL
A SQL set operator that concatenates two tabular SELECT answer sets with consistent column
structures into one answer set table, including all duplicates.
unique identifier
A redundant synonym of identifier. Identifiers are unique by definition. SEE identifier.
unique index
SEE index, unique.
uniqueness
The quality of having no entity existing more than once within a data set.
unit of recovery
An operation within a unit of work that might need to be undone.
unit of work
A set of operations performing a logical outcome in which either all changes are successfully
performed, or none are performed.
unit test
SEE test, unit.
unstructured
Adjective. Not structured, having few formal requirements, or not having a patterned organization.
(Brackett 2011)
unstructured data
SEE data, unstructured.
UPDATE
1. Generally, any change to a database, which may also include inserting and deleting data.
2. In SQL, the change of attribute values for one or more existing rows defined by predicate logic. A
SQL statement (command) that specifies replacement of data in a relational database.
uplift modeling
A modeling technique that shows the change in probability of an outcome caused by events or
actions. SEE ALSO predictive modeling.
usage meta-data
SEE meta-data, usage.
use case
1. Generally, a description of behavior given specific input.
2. In Systems Development LifeCycle, the context for process or workflow scenarios.
3. In object-oriented analysis, a work flow scenario defined in order to identify objects, their data and
their methods (process steps).
user
A person or role recognized and authorized to access a particular application. The user’s identity is
what confers security authorization. The term has many inappropriate connotations and should be
avoided in favor of role-based terms such as business professional, knowledge worker, data producer,
or data consumer.
user hostile
Adjective. A colloquial way of describing a user interface that is non-intuitive and/or difficult to use.
utility analysis
A method of estimating monetary value of benefit realized by an improvement in worker
productivity.
V
valid time
SEE time, valid.
validation
Determining and confirming that something satisfies or conforms to defined rules, business rules,
integrity constraints, defined standards, etc. The system cannot perform any validating unless it first
has a definition of the way things should be
validity
The degree to which data conforms to domain values and defined business rules. (Larry English,
Information Quality, pg. 142)
value
1. Generally, the amount or extent of a measurement of space, time or quantity.
2. In data modeling, a data abstraction assigned to a single attribute representing a fact, which may be
represented by an encoding of the value.
3. Commonly, the relative worth, usefulness, desirability, or importance of something, expressed
numerically, sometimes using monetary values.
value chain
An end-to-end set of activities in support of customer needs, usually beginning with a customer
request and ending with customer receipt of benefits. Also called value stream. SEE ALSO
information value chain analysis; process.
variance
The amount of difference or distance between an expected result and an observed result.
vee diagram
SEE chart, vee diagram.
Venn diagram
SEE chart, Venn diagram.
veracity
The degree to which something is believed to be true.
verb
1. In language, a word describing a process or activity that occurs, has occurred, or will occur.
2. In data modeling, a predicate that implies a relationship between two (or more) objects or entities. It
can be used to form an elementary fact sentence. (Everest 2010)
version
A specific modification of a basic object that shares the same identifier with other modified forms of
the object. Supplementary version numbers or effective dates are often needed to uniquely identify
an instance.
versioning
The unique identification and storage of multiple versions of an object.
vertical abstraction
SEE abstraction, vertical.
vertical partitioning
SEE partitioning, vertical.
view
A presentation of a set of data from one or more physical tables as one logical table. A view can
include some or all the rows and columns from each contributing table, and can be defined as the
result table from a SELECT statement.
visualization, compound
The use of multiple types of visualization formats in one display.
visualization, concept
Visual representation of qualitative concepts.
visualization, data
Visual representation of quantitative data in schematic form.
visualization, information
An interactive visual representation of data by transformation into an image that can be then
manipulated.
visualization, metaphor
The positioning of information graphically using a secondary related framework to convey insight.
visualization, strategy
Use of complementary visual representations to enable development and communication of a
strategy.
vocabulary
A collection of terms and concepts that have not necessarily been screened for duplication and
ambiguity. SEE ALSO controlled vocabulary.
vocabulary management
A way to improve the effectiveness of information storage and retrieval systems, Web navigation
systems, and other environments that seek to both identify and locate desired content via some sort
of description using language. The primary purpose of vocabulary control is to achieve consistency in
the description of content objects and to facilitate retrieval. (ANSI/NISO Z39.19-2005)
volatile
1. Adjective. Subject to sharp, frequent, or regular changes.
2. Adjective. Transient, not persistent.
W
wallet share
The percentage of a customer’s requirements that are filled by a particular brand of product or
service.
warehouse
SEE Data Warehouse.
waterfall chart
SEE chart, waterfall.
web crawler Alternate forms: ant, automatic indexer, bot, web spider, web robot, web scutter
A program that browses the internet looking for publicly available resources that can be added to a
database for future searching applications, for automation of simple monitoring and maintenance
tasks, or for harvesting of specific types of data, such as email addresses.
web services
Platform-neutral, vendor-independent protocols that enable distributed processing to be performed
using XML and Web-based technologies. Sometimes instantiated as remote procedure calls in which
the request is an XML document.
What
Zachman Framework column name, matches Inventory Sets.
What-You-See-Is-What-You-Get (WYSIWYG)
A term describing the situation where a representation or recreation of a thing resembles the original
to a close degree.
When
Zachman Framework column name, matches Timing Periods.
Where
Zachman Framework column name, matches Network Nodes.
Who
Zachman Framework column name, matches Organization Groups.
Why
Zachman Framework column name, matches Motivation Reasons.
wisdom
Knowledge in context; knowledge accumulated and applied in the course of actions. Deep
understanding, keen discernment and a capacity for sound judgment.
WordNet
An open source semantic lexicon for the English language. It groups English words into sets of
synonyms called synsets, provides short, general definitions, and records the various semantic
relations between these synonym sets. The purpose is twofold: to produce a combination of
dictionary and thesaurus that is more intuitively usable, and to support automatic text analysis and
artificial intelligence applications. The database and software tools can be downloaded and used
freely, and the database can also be browsed online. WordNet was created and is being maintained at
Princeton University under the direction of psychology professor George A. Miller. Development
began in 1985.
Workers as Participants
Zachman Framework row name, matches Operations Instance Classes.
workflow
A predefined sequence of activities that complete a process.
X
XML for Analysis (XML/A)
A set of XML message interfaces using SOAP to define the data access interaction between a client
application and an analytical data provider (OLAP and data mining) over the Internet. The jointly
published XML/A specification allows developers, vendors and others to query analytical data
providers in a standard way. The goal is to provide an open, standard access application program
interface for OLAP providers and consumers
XML schema
SEE schema, XML.
XPath
A shorthand term for XML Path Language, used to address parts of an XML document, with basic
facilities for manipulation of strings and numbers.
XQuery
A query language for retrieving data from an XML document or XML database.
XSD
The schema language for XML, expressed in XML, equivalent to Document Type Definition in older
SGML-family markup languages.
Y
Year 2000 (Y2K)
Used in reference to application maintenance projects enabling legacy systems to support processing
in the new millennium by eliminating ambiguity about century years in dates. This ambiguity was due
to hard coded expressions for the year in software and in databases as 2 digits (e.g. 1950 was
expressed as 50). At the turn of the millennium, accurate calculations would not be possible without
proper full 4 digit references.
Z
Zachman Framework for Enterprise Architecture
In 2003, John Zachman updated his Zachman Framework for Information Systems to classify
descriptive representations contributing to an enterprise architecture. This framework is also
represented by a matrix.
Each of the six columns contains a basic interrogative and what it represents in a functioning
enterprise:
What - Data; Who - People;
How - Function; When - Time;
Where - Network; Why - Motivation.
Each of the five rows represent a perspective:
Planner - Scope (Contextual); Builder - Technology Model (Physical);
Owner - Business Model (Conceptual); Sub-Contractor - Detailed Representation
Designer - System Model (Logical); (Out-of-Context).
The sixth row represents the Functioning Enterprise itself and the actual physical manifestation of
the end product. In addition, each of the thirty cells within the matrix has a name.
zero-or-one-to-one (0..1:1)
The characteristic of a relationship in which a member of population A may be related to only one
member of population B, and a member of population B may not be related to a member of
population A. For example, a person (B) and a date of death (A). SEE ALSO cardinality.
zero-or-one-to-one-or-Many (0..1:1..M)
The characteristic of a relationship in which a member of population A may be related to one or
more members of population B, and a member of population B may not be related to a member of
population A, or may only be related to one member of population A. SEE ALSO cardinality.
zero-or-one-to-zero-or-Many (0..1:0..M)
The characteristic of a relationship in which a member of population A may be related to none, one,
or multiple members of population B, and a member of population B may not be related to a
member of population A, or may only be related to one member of population A. For example, a
person (B) and a doctor (A). A person may not have a doctor, and a doctor may have zero, one or
more people as patients. SEE ALSO cardinality.
zero-to-Many (0:M)
SEE zero-or-one-to-one-or-Many; zero-or-one-to-zero-or-Many.