The drawbacks of conventional file systems as well as the challenges of emerging application areas have resulted in the rapid development of data management systems. Extensive and well-organized, the Handbook of Database Systems presents an overview of the fundamentals of database technology. This comprehensive volume addresses the design and modeling of relational and object-based databases. It presents new advanced applications for databases, including commercial databases. Featuring contributions by leading worldwide authorities in the field, the book explores the dynamics of database application development, database implementation, and database system architecture.