A Systematic and Practical Approach to the Definition of Data

In methods and standards for the exchange of information, whether via transmissions over data communications networks or via shared databases, relatively little attention has been given to methods for exactly defining the meaning of the information being exchanged. In complex information systems, it is important to define the unambiguous meaning of data elements out of the context of particular messages, database records, or applications in .which they currently appear. To help solve these problems a methodology for formal definition of data elements using standardized terminology was developed within N. V. Philips Gloeilampenfabrieken, Eindhoven. The method is complementary to present-day naming of data items, is based on sound theory of data analysis and can be used to define data elements both in intercompany messages as well as in local systems and databases.