Setting Up a Multi-Modeling Environment › Multi-Model Structures

Multi-Model Structures

The multi‑model structure is a modeling environment that allows multiple models to exist in development and production environments. You can copy object definitions from among participating models. And you can create a multi‑model structure made up of:

• A standards model, which is the foundation for all new models in the environment. This model contains any system-wide standards, such as structure files, field types, and header/footer designs. This model is used to create all other models.
• A core model, which contains the database relations of the complete database.
• Application models, which contain database relations for a particular application plus functions. Many environments may not need application models. The application models may be integrated into a production model.

In a multi‑model structure, object definitions are intended to be shared. The structure can be treated as one model and eventually consolidated. In some environments, database changes to the design may be prevented in the core model.