Data Model Template

Software Developers and IT Architects use data models to explore data-oriented structures. Data models can be used for different purposes, from high-level conceptual models to physical data models.

This Data Model template can be used to describe how data is represented and accessed in an IT system. Data models are used to describe database models, the design of information systems, and how data is exchanged.

What is a Data Model?

A data model describes how data is represented and accessed. Data models formally define data elements and relationships among data elements for a domain of interest.Data models help determine the meaning of data. Typical applications of data models include database models, design of information systems, and enabling exchange of data. Usually data models are specified in a data modeling language.

The Role of Data Models

Data models support data and IT systems by providing the definition and format of data. If this is done consistently across systems then compatibility of data can be achieved. If the same data structures are used to store and access data then different applications can share data.

1. Business rules are often fixed in the structure of a data model. This means that small changes in the way business is conducted lead to large changes in computer systems and interfaces. More about business rules here.

2. Entity types are often not identified or incorrectly identified. This can lead to replication of data, data structure, and functionality, together with the attendant costs of that duplication in development and maintenance.

3. Data models for different systems are arbitrarily different. The result of this is that complex interfaces are required between systems that share data. These interfaces can account for between 25-70% of the cost of current systems.

4. Data cannot be shared electronically with customers and suppliers, because the structure and meaning of data has not been standardized. For example, engineering design data and drawings for process plant are still sometimes exchanged on paper.

A data model can be sometimes referred to as a Data Structure, especially in the context of programming languages. Data models are often complemented by function models, especially in the context of enterprise models.

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