Meta Data Repository Design Activities

The activities for meta data repository design do not need to be performed linearly. Figure 10.7 indicates which activities can be performed concurrently. The list below briefly describes the activities associated with Step 10, Meta Data Repository Design.

1. Design the meta data repository database.

   If the decision is made to build a meta data repository rather than to license (buy) one, design the meta data repository database. Choose between an E-R design and an OO design, and create (or enhance) the physical meta model (database design). Generate the DDL for the database structures. Develop the meta data repository database maintenance procedures, such as backup and recovery, and create plans for versioning and archiving.

2. Install and test the meta data repository product.

   If the decision is made to license a meta data repository rather than to build one, evaluate the meta data repository products as well as their vendors. Products and vendors with the highest scorecard ratings should go on the short list (top two choices) from which the final product will be selected. Install and test the meta data repository product.

3. Design the meta data migration process.

   Identify all tools and DBMSs from which business meta data and technical meta data will have to be extracted. Determine the import, export, and API capabilities of those tools and DBMSs as well as of your meta data repository product if you licensed one. Design the meta data migration programs, including the tool interfaces, and write the programming specifications.

4. Design the meta data application.

   Unless you licensed a meta data repository product, design the meta data application, which includes access interfaces, Web features, reports , and an online help function. Once the reporting medium (e.g., Portable Document Format [PDF], Hypertext Markup Language [HTML]) has been selected, prepare the programming specifications for the various types of application programs.

Figure 10.7. Meta Data Repository Design Activities