In metadata, the term data element is an atomic unit of data that has precise meaning or precise semantics. A data element has:
- An identification such as a data element name
- A clear data element definition
- One or more representation terms
- Optional enumerated values Code (metadata)
- A list of synonyms to data elements in other metadata registries Synonym ring
Data elements usage can be discovered by inspection of software applications or application through a process of manual or automated Application Discovery and Understanding. Once data elements are discovered they can be registered in a metadata registry.
In telecommunications, the term data element has the following components:
- A named unit of data that, in some contexts, is considered indivisible and in other contexts may consist of data items.
- A named identifier of each of the entities and their attributes that are represented in a database.
- A basic unit of information built on standard structures having a unique meaning and distinct units or values.
- In electronic record-keeping, a combination of characters or bytes referring to one separate item of information, such as name, address, or age.
In the areas of databases and data systems more generally a data element is a concept forming part of a data model. As an element of data representation, a collection of data elements forms a data structure.Beynon-Davies P. (2004). Database Systems 3rd Edition. Palgrave, Basingstoke, UK
In practice
See also
- Application Discovery and Understanding
- Data element definition
- Data dictionary
- Data hierarchy
- ISO/IEC 11179 metadata registry specification
- Metadata
- Representation term
- Universal Data Element Framework
- Data collection system
External links
- Federal XML Developer's Guide
- ISO/IEC 11179 Standards (see ISO/IEC 11179-3:2003 clause 3.3.36)
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