Distributed Database System (DDBS) Design, Research Paper Example

Three critical issues that are associated with distributed database design include the following:

• Data Allocation
• Fragmentation
• Replication

In a distributed database the characteristic feature involves storage devices that lack universal processing unit such as the CPU. The distributed database is controlled by database management distributed system (O’Brien & Marakas, 2008). In the distributed database, data allocation involves the place of data storage and the most important consideration in this regard is a site equipped with “optimal” distribution. Data allocation is a crucial issue in design thus maximum effort must be accorded to the process. Data allocation heavily influences the quality of ultimate solution as well as the system’s operational efficiency. Data allocation in diverse sites across the network also plays a critical role in the performance of the system of distributed database

Fragmentation comprises of three types namely horizontal, vertical as well as hybrid leading to sub-relations that are also called fragments and of which, vertical fragmentation is the most common. The resultant fragments are consequently stored in different sites. The arrangements of fragments are designed in a manner that they enhance reconstruction of relation from fragments then scattering the fragments in different locations across the network (O’Brien & Marakas, 2008).

Replication is a critical element in the architecture of distributed database. The importance of replication in this regard is attributed to its role in the definition of database architecture and determination of availability and consistency of data in the scheme (Özsu & Valduriez, 2011).  The intended objectives of replication consist of reference locality, enhanced reliability as well as availability and performance, reasonable storage capacities and minimal communication costs.

References

O’Brien, J. & Marakas, G.M.(2008) Management Information Systems. NY: McGraw-Hill Irwin.

Özsu M. T. & Valduriez, P., (2011). Principles of Distributed Databases, 3^rd edition, Springer.