Object-oriented database systems

TLDR

Object‑oriented database research is defined by its objectives and positioned relative to other database subfields. The paper outlines the author’s vision of the current state of object‑oriented database research. The author identifies key characteristics of object‑oriented systems—encapsulation, identity, classes, inheritance, overriding, late binding—distinguishes them from relational systems, and lists open research issues. The study highlights both advantages and drawbacks of object‑oriented database systems compared to relational databases.

Abstract

This paper describes my vision of the current state of object-oriented database research. I first briefly define this field by its objectives, and relate it to other database subfields. I describe what I consider to be the main characteristics of an object oriented system, i.e. those which are important to integrate in a database system: encapsulation, object identity, classes or types, inheritance, overriding and late binding. I point out the differences between an object oriented system and an object oriented database system. I also point out the advantages and drawbacks of an object oriented database system with respect to a relational system. Finally, I list some research issues.