Explain what a data dictionary is, making sure to include definitions of the ter

Question

Explain what a data dictionary is, making sure to include definitions of the terms data element and record in your explanation. Provide examples of each of these terms as you include them.

Explanation / Answer

A data dictionary, or metadata repository, as defined in the IBM Dictionary of Computing, is a "centralized repository of information about data such as meaning, relationships to other data, origin, usage, and format."[1] The term may have one of several closely related meanings pertaining to databases and database management systems (DBMS): >>a document describing a database or collection of databases >>an integral component of a DBMS that is required to determine its structure >>a piece of middleware that extends or supplants the native data dictionary of a DBMS. The term Data Dictionary and Data Repository are used to indicate a more general software utility than a catalogue. A Catalogue is closely coupled with the DBMS Software; it provides the information stored in it to user and the DBA, but it is mainly accessed by the various software modules of the DBMS itself, such as DDL and DML compilers, the query optimiser, the transaction processor, report generators, and the constraint enforcer. On the other hand, a Data Dictionary is a data structure that stores meta-data, i.e., data about data. The Software package for a stand-alone Data Dictionary or Data Repository may interact with the software modules of the DBMS, but it is mainly used by the Designers, Users and Administrators of a computer system for information resource management. These systems are used to maintain information on system hardware and software configuration, documentation, application and users as well as other information relevant to system administration.

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