A data dictionary contains standard definitions for the different data elements in a solution. It captures the common understanding of the meanings of data elements between stakeholders and solution teams.
Data dictionaries capture the data elements, primitive data elements, and composite elements. The differences between these three dimensions are best described through an example:
|
Primitive data elements |
Data element 1 |
Data element 2 |
Data element 3 |
|
Name (the name referenced by data elements) |
First name |
Middle name |
Last name |
|
Alias (alternative names referenced by stakeholders) |
Given name |
Middle name |
Family name |
|
Values/meanings (a description of the data element) |
A minimum of 2 characters and a maximum of 20 characters |
Optional, can be omitted |
A minimum of 2 characters and a maximum of 30 characters |
|
Description (a definition) |
First name |
Middle name |
Surname |
Composite element: Customer name = first name + middle name + surname
It is important to share and collaborate with stakeholders when developing the data dictionary so that the meaning of the information is agreed upon and validated.