System Types by Data Structure Flashcards
Define “expert system (knowledge-based system)”.
A computer program that contains subject-specific knowledge derived from experts. The system consists of a set of rules that are used to analyze information provided the user of the system. Based on the information provided, the system recommends a course of action.
Define “drill down”.
Concept associated with data warehouses. The ability to move from summary information to more granular information (i.e., viewing an accounts receivable customer balance and drilling down to the invoices and payments which resulted in that balance).
Describe a flat file system.
Early information technology systems used flat file technology. Flat files are characterized by independent programs and data sets, high degrees of data redundancy, and difficulty in achieving cross-functional reporting.
Define “knowledge base (or knowledgebase)”.
A component of a knowledge management system. A special type of database designed for retrieval of knowledge. It provides the means to collect and organize the information and develop relationships among information components.
Describe the concept of knowledge management (KM).
Attempts to ensure that the right information is available at the right time to the right user. A variety of practices attempt to electronically capture and disseminate information throughout the organization. Knowledge management practices seek specific outcomes, including shared intelligence, improved performance, competitive advantage, and more innovation.
Define “data mart”.
A specialized version of a data warehouse that contains data that is pre-configured to meet the needs of specific departments. Companies often support multiple data marts within their organization.
Define “ slicing and dicing” as it relates to data warehouses.
The ability to view a single data item in multiple dimensions; for example, the sale of VCRs might be viewed by product, by region, by time period, by company, etc.
