Data Modeling With the UML
Channel: DATAVERSITY
Date: 2013-04-25

The UML is a popular modeling notation for programmers, but it is little used by database developers. One reason is technical - the UML creators ignored databases. Another reason is that few UML tools support database design.

Despite the flaws, the UML is effective for high-level conceptual data modeling. The UML notation avoids confusing database details, making it easier for business experts to understand data models. In addition, the suppression of details promotes deep thinking, such as the use of abstract patterns.

The UML has multiple notations, of which one - the class model - pertains to databases. This talk explains the UML class model by comparison to the IE database notation.

This session will deliver the following benefits to attendees:

* A candid assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of the UML for conceptual data modeling
* Explanation of the UML by comparison to a popular database design notation (IE)
* An approach for using the UML and IE notations together, taking advantage of each notation's strengths
* Compelling examples that highlight the similarities and differences between the UML and IE notations