A major criteria for choosing the right database must allow for the idiosyncrasies of a full range of technologies, from legacy systems to the newer object-orientated development techniques. This is the view of David McWilliam, chairman of BCS Computer Software.
"Much has been made of the virtues of today`s relational databases", says McWilliam, "but the so-called efficiencies enforced by the relational purists can limit rather than enable cost-effective and functionally efficient software conversion and development."
Relational theory, commonly applied by relational database administrators, insists on the application of the first normal form (1NF) rule in order to maximise the efficiencies of relational rules. In so doing, there is a proliferation of tables or relational files with multiple foreign keys or indexes. The result is that queries to the database necessitate the joining of numerous tables to get the answers. This is inefficient and degrades performance.
McWilliam points out that by extending relational theory, databases such as Universe offer more flexible design options. Universe design does not insist on the application of the 1NF rule. With its system of nested tables, it still takes advantage of relational database advantages such as the protection of data integrity, but its design flexibility allows developers to span both old and new technologies. This allows an enterprise to leverage investment in legacy systems as well as take advantage of emerging technologies. This is achieved because:
. Conversion of inherently fast proprietary legacy system databases such as IMS or IDMS is straightforward. The same rules that were hardwired in the legacy system are maintained, meaning the rules need minimal redesign and access is still efficient.
. Any enterprise data governed by hierarchical relationships has those rules maintained through direct conversion. Product codes with sub-categories within major categories are an example of this. These map more logically and are more easily understood on a nested database. However, with the added advantages of relational rules, other types of relationships can be added if needed.
. Object-oriented (OO) tools can be easily used with Universe. OO is the preferred method for new development on the open enterprise wide platforms, including the Web. 1NF relational databases are unsuitable as they demand the analysis of the object into atomic components to identify the relationships and internal rules. This defeats the whole purpose of object development that is encapsulation of data and methods in the object. Extended relational database design, in contrast, does not insist on the decomposition of the object to store it, while at the same time it offers the data consistency of the relational database.
McWilliam says that as a developer of insurance solutions, BCS has to enhance and convert legacy systems as well as develop new systems. "BCS has, like many other longstanding organisations, had to weather the major advances in technology without losing the rich base of rules in legacy systems. Universe has allowed us to manage and integrate our development , providing the best from both worlds with none of their limitations."
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