Application of an analytical model to evaluate storage structures

Abstract

The File Design Analyzer is a software package which evaluates well-known database storage structures and access methods in terms of secondary storage processing time and storage overhead required to service a set of user applications. It implements a first-order analytical model to specifically evaluate sequential, indexed sequential, direct access, inverted, multilist, and network storage structures. Interaction with the package is available in conversational mode, enabling the experienced analyst to conduct on-line sensitivity analysis.The paper describes three extensions of a conceptual model and system into a practical tool for evaluation of existing or proposed database designs: batched transactions, multi-access interference due to shared secondary storage, and variable record size. Case studies of real systems illustrate the potential of the File Design Analyzer to provide insight regarding the optimal choice of physical parameters within a specified storage structure and to effectively compare alternative storage structures for a particular set of applications.