HIDRA
HIDRA, (Hierarchical Information Distributed Resource Architecture) is a comprehensive method for storing, retrieving, updating, and processing information in a distributed Enterprise Management System (EMS). It is a unique database architecture with attributes of relational, object oriented and XML data structures.
Managing Complex Data Relationships
HIDRA was designed to respond to the fact that real world data relationships can be very complex. For example, the relationships between organizations and companies and their subsidiaries may change frequently. In addition, individuals within these organizations may function in multiple capacities and may be linked to multiple organizations.
HIDRA was developed specifically to manage these complex data structures and all the interrelations between data elements. Unlike a conventional relational database, HIDRA permits re-use of data without restriction. In other words, once data is entered into the HIDRA system, it can be linked to any number of locations, but it is stored only once.
HIDRA combines the features of the relational model with structural aspects of XML. For example, you can use XML to define an address element and then re-use that same address element as the content of several other elements. Although that concept is impractical to represent in a conventional ERD, it is inherent to the structure of a Document Type Definition (DTD). One of the core elements of the HIDRA system is its ability to represent the allowed linkages via a DTD-like mechanism.
XML as the Lingua Franca
HIDRA is not XML, but XML is a means of representing data that resides in a HIDRA database. XML is used as an interchange mechanism for both importation of datasets and as a ‘lingua franca’ for exporting data for multiple uses. Using XML provides the opportunity to integrate more and more commonly available tools in order to perform quality control measures and provide post-processing utilities for alternate output formats.
HIDRA is now the preferred architecture for many of ATLIS's solutions. In fact, many of the applications described throughout this section are HIDRA derivatives. A more detailed description of HIDRA is available in the Features section.
HIDRA Features include:
- Easy access for the on-going management of the data.
- A means to facilitate and expedite the production of printed deliverables
- Automation of the sorting and indexing process.
- Access to the data for timely extraction of marketing data, reports and other by-products.
- Export of HTML and XML versions of the printed deliverables for use on a website or other electronic deliverables.
- Streamlining of the ability to generate new products.
- Facilitation of the reuse of data between products.
- Easy-to-use export methods using industry standards for information exchange to allow the data to be used in other applications.
- Almost "real-time" availability of useful data to the marketing staff.
- A shortening of the production time span required, thus enhancing the timeliness of the printed products.
