Easing the transition between attribute-value databases and conventional databases for scientific data

Proc AMIA Symp. 2001:483-7.

Abstract

We have previously developed and described a modeling and development framework called EAV/CR, which is appropriate for designing databases containing highly heterogeneous and evolving data, as in the case of scientific databases for rapidly advancing domains. The use of EAV/CR has been hampered by the lack of generic tools for non-procedurally transferring data into or out of legacy systems or analytical packages: the transfer task is complicated by the different representation of EAV vs. conventional data, which is not addressed by commercial data-transfer programs. We have therefore created such a tool, which works with a wide variety of data sources that are accessible via Microsoft OLE DB technology. The data transfer tool requires minimal programmer intervention to set up, and no programming to use on a regular basis. Current limitations of the tool are also noted.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Database Management Systems*
  • Databases as Topic / organization & administration*
  • Systems Integration
  • User-Computer Interface