Naming and Defining Entities and Attributes › Attribute Definitions

Attribute Definitions

As with entities, it is important to define all attributes clearly. The same rules apply. By comparing an attribute to a definition, you should be able to tell if it fits. However, you should be aware of incomplete definitions.

Example:

account-open-date

The date on which the ACCOUNT was opened. A further definition of what “opened” means is needed before the definition is clear and complete.

Attribute definitions generally should have the same basic structure as entity definitions, including a description, examples, and comments. The definitions should also contain, whenever possible, validation rules that specify which facts are accepted as valid values for that attribute.