Association patterns

Abstract

Association patterns describe the semantics of common types of associations that arise in database applications. The patterns are defined using UML class diagrams and Object Relationship Notation (ORN). Their purpose is to impart packaged expertise to the database modeler resulting in more correct and precise models. Their usage also leads to more economically implemented and reliable database systems when ORN is supported by the DBMS. This paper gives a very brief introduction to association patterns.