Data mapping is a process, used in data warehousing, in which various different data models are linked and connected to each other by the use of a defined set of methods or rules which are preset and have been formulated in order to characterize the data in a fixed definition. There exist certain sets of standards, depending on the domain values of the data model in question which is followed in this process of data linking and it’s benefits . There are several models which can be used to achieve this process.

Hierarchical Data Mapping

A hierarchical database model is a model of data organization in which the data is arranged into a tree like structure based on certain hierarchy that has been previously set depending on the data values and needs. The data in this format is stored as records that are connected to one another via links. A record is an actually nothing but a collection of fields where each field contains only one value. The entity type of a record defines which fields the record contains. It is recognized that this is actually the first database model which created by IBM in the 1960s.

How it works

In the hierarchical database model, a record corresponds to a row, or a tuple while on the other hand, in a relational database model an entity type corresponds to a table or a relation. The hierarchical database model mandates that the one below, also known as the record has only one parent, which is the data it is linked to, whereas each parent record can have two or even more child records. The data in this format flows like a tree, from top to the bottom, or from one side to another, but never in the opposite direction, and hence, it is unidirectional. In order to retrieve the necessary data from a hierarchical database the whole data tree needs to be traversed starting right from the root node itself.

Let us take the example of a company. It follows a hierarchy with roles, where in the most influence and power is held by the top posts like director, followed by the assistant director, manager, assistant manager, trainee, intern etc. Under the aegis of one director there can be multiple assistant directors, of which each can be placed of multiple managers and so on. The flow of power here goes only in one direction since the lower ranking employees report to the higher-ranking ones and never the other way around.

Where is it used?

In the current scenario hierarchical databases are widely used in a number of various fields which require a systematic structured data model. It finds itself of great use in several scenarios, especially in applications which require extremely high performance as well as availability that is important in sectors such as banking and telecommunications. One of the most popular commercial hierarchical databases in use is IMS. Another interesting example which can be cited where the of hierarchical databases is extremely crucial is in Windows Registry in the Microsoft Windows operating system. Without the use of hierarchical database mapping, it would be virtually impossible to manage certain types of data scenarios and hence, it is such a popular choice of large corporations.

Whether you are running a big corporation or not, hierarchical data mapping can of great use, if you choose a good data mapping software for your business needs. It works by allowing business analysts to easily aggregate data, they can make Business Intelligence reports faster, leading to increased revenue, better productivity, and a competitive advantage.