Does an enterprise data model represent a high-level conceptual view (entities and relationships), rather than being a strictly relational (table/column) model?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Incorrect

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
An enterprise data model (EDM) is a conceptual, business-oriented model describing major entity types and their relationships across the enterprise. It is not the same thing as a physical or fully relational schema. This item distinguishes conceptual modeling from relational implementation.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • EDM is typically expressed using entity–relationship notation or a similar conceptual diagram.
  • Relational models translate concepts into tables, columns, keys, and constraints.
  • The original statement asserts the EDM “is a relational model,” which is a category error.


Concept / Approach:
Conceptual → Logical → Physical. The enterprise model lives primarily at the conceptual level. The relational model appears at the logical/physical levels when implementing in a DBMS. Thus, equating an EDM with a relational model is incorrect, even though the EDM will eventually be elaborated into relational structures.



Step-by-Step Solution:

Identify scope: cross-enterprise, business concepts (EDM).Contrast with relational artifacts: tables/columns/keys.Note transformation path: conceptual → relational design.Conclude the statement is false as written.


Verification / Alternative check:
Methodologies (e.g., top-down data architecture) explicitly separate enterprise conceptual models from DB-specific relational schemas.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • Correct/“depends on tool” both ignore the conceptual vs. relational distinction.
  • Organization size does not change definitions.


Common Pitfalls:
Jumping to physical design too early; mistaking ERDs at enterprise scope for physical table designs.



Final Answer:
Incorrect

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