1981•Journal of the American Society for Information ScienceRequires access

The relational model in information retrieval

Robert G. Crawford

Abstract

Abstract The relational model has received increasing attention during the past decade. Its advantages include simplicity, consistency, and a sound theoretical basis. In this article, the naturalness of viewing information retrieval relationally is demonstrated. The relational model is presented, and the relational organization of a bibliographical database is shown. The notion of normalization is introduced and first, second, third, and fourth normal forms are demonstrated. Relational languages are discussed, including the relational calculus, relational algebra, and SEQUEL. Numerous examples pertinent to information retrieval are presented in these relational languages. Advantages of the relational approach to information retrieval are noted.

About this research paper

What this paper is about

Why it matters

OpenAlex reports 45 citations for this work. Citation counts describe recorded attention and do not establish research quality.

Key contribution

A contribution statement is not available in the OpenAlex record.

Method / approach

Method details are not available in the OpenAlex metadata.

Main findings

Findings are not separately available in the OpenAlex metadata.

Limitations

Limitations are not available in the OpenAlex metadata.

Applications

Application details are not available in the OpenAlex metadata.

Available abstract

Key concepts: Relational calculus, Relational model, Relational database, Computer science, Relational algebra, Naturalness, Codd's theorem, Normalization (sociology)