SUPER - Visual Interaction with an Object-based ER Model

SUPER is a project aiming at the specification and development of a consistent set of visual user interfaces covering all phases of the database lifecycle. In this paper we discuss the basic principles which, in our opinion, should underline a global approach to visual interaction with advanced data models. Visual interaction in SUPER environment is based on direct manipulation of objects and functions, providing users with maximum flexibility during schema definition as well as query formulation. Graphical interactions are easy to manage, and take advantage of the support of a simple but powerful modelling paradigm. Visual data manipulation is assertional and objectbased. The environment offers multiple interaction styles, well-suited for various categories of users. Interaction styles are consistent over the various functions and editors. To support the discussion, SUPER schema and query editors are analyzed, focusing on functionalities, and the underlying design choices, rather than..

Database Visual Environments Based On Advanced Data Models

We present the SUPER environment, an integrated CASE tool whose components cover all phases of user interaction with a database. The SUPER environment is based on ERC+, an object based extension of the ER model. The proposed architecture can be suitable for all visual environments based on direct manipulation and high-level data models. The architecture is open and built on a generic kernel, providing basic functionalities and independent form any specific tool. We retained the toolbox approach for the development of the environment, as it appropriately supports both data models and direct manipulation interfaces implementation. In particular, in the paper we present SUPER existing tools: the design and query editors. We focus on functionalities and underlying design choices rather than how they operate. These interfaces provide users with flexibility, simple graphical interactions and consistency of interaction styles over the various tools. Keywords: Database visual environments, CA..