Distributed Architectures

Modularity in Databases

It is convenient for both individual users and communities of users to be able to structure their information space into modular databases which serve both as context spaces and units of reusability. Both data and metadata may then be shared across databases by a connection mechanism which provides a form of dynamic client-server relationship.

Schema and Data Distribution

The OMS Database Development Suite provides a general model of database connectivity for the OMS environment. A database may connect to one or more other databases, thereby enabling remote data and metadata to be viewed, processed and copied within the local database in such a way that consistency of the user working space is maintained. Further, the objects of the remote database may be extended locally with attributes, methods and additional classifications. Operation of a database is not dependent on connection to a server database. During connection,a client may request that certain server objects be replicated locally. This facility enables the client to continue working with the server objects after disconnection and thus supports mobile working.

Opportunistic Information Sharing

In recent years, mobile and personal database have become a popular alternative to the traditional client/server paradigm. In personal databases a user can store and manage its own information without shipping it to a central server. Access rights and trust can be managed locally as the user can decide which information is to be shared and which is to be kept private. In mobile or peer-to-peer environments, personal database share data opportunistic, i.e. whenever a connection to another database is available.