Other models

Since their introduction in the late 60s, relational databases have become the most commonly used data storage method. While other models have been proposed, none have replaced relational databases as the predominant model. Despite this, there are limitations with relational databases and they are not suitable for all situations.
This topic covers:

  • Advanced database applications: looks at the requirements of advanced database applications
  • Data warehousing and distributed databases: two different data storage systems

 

Advanced database applications

e-reserve
Advanced Database Applications

The next reading looks at a selection of adavnced database applications that cannot be easily satisfied by relational databases.

As you read, concentrate on on identifiying situations that suit and do not suit relational databases.

 

Data warehousing and distributed databases

Textbook reading
Data warehousing
Ch9 pp 409-455

Data warehouses are designed for a very different purpose to relational databases and so have a very different architecture. Conversely a distributed database often looks to extend the capabilities of a relational database and so builds on the underlying database architecture.

Textbook reading
Distributed databases
Ch12 pp 547-551


As you read about these two technologies concentrate on:

  • identifying how these technologies differ from simple relational databases
  • identifying how a business such as a bank might be able to use the technology
  • gaining an overview of the technology rather than remembering all the details
    and terms

 

Getting your hands dirty


Other models

  1. The World Wide Web contains a vast amount of information about data warehousing and is, in fact, a data warehouse itself. Viewing the Web form the perspective of a data warehouse
    1. describe and identify the various data warehouse components and
    2. identify why the Web is an atypical warehouse
  2. An international bank has offices in major centres around the world. The Head Office is situated in London. Discuss
    1. 2 or 3 queries that the data warehouse could answer that can’t be answered by a typical operational system
    2. the potential benefits of implementing a data warehouse for the business
    3. the potential disadvantages
  3. For the international bank described above, what would be the advantages and disadvantages of a distributed database?