Extending Object-Oriented Database Concepts to Support a Wider Range of Applications

This paper primarily addresses the issue of what we really mean by `Object-Oriented Databases'. It is argued that the conventional view of an object-oriented database (OODB) - with the main object-oriented features consisting of object identity, classification, specialisation, composition and encapsulation - is rather basic and has limited applications. In order to more adequately support both non-traditional database applications and traditional ones, and provide continuing support into the future, a broader view is essential. Features, such as explicit relationships, version management, arbitrary collections, and multimedia support, should be available as standard. Examples are provided to illustrate applications which require these enhanced features.