Meta-data dictionary: a system for data administration

Abstract

In an organization operating a large computer center, information exists on different media, magnetic and manual, and consists of many different data items, files, and databases. In such an environment it is of utmost importance to build and maintain an organizational data dictionary containing business terminology definitions as well as data structures and systems cross references. Such a dictionary functions as an auxiliary tool for both users and system analysts in defining new systems. The dictionary contains data needed by business functions in the organization and its representation in real life as well as in computer files. A description is presented of a dictionary which is currently being implemented.<>