How can independent databases share information effectively? This research proposes a federated database architecture for coordinating the sharing and interchange of computerized information, particularly within office information systems. The emphasis is on partial, controlled sharing among autonomous databases, addressing the need for flexible data management in distributed environments. The architecture consists of components representing individual users, applications, or workstations, along with a federal dictionary that maintains federation topology and oversees component entry. Each component uses export and import schemas to control data sharing and manipulation. The architecture facilitates data and transaction sharing, information combination, and coordinated activities through negotiation. A prototype implementation is currently operational, showcasing the architecture’s feasibility and function in **information management**. This approach offers a viable solution for integrating diverse data sources while preserving autonomy, which is essential in modern information systems. The finding has great applications to **information technology**. Further research can explore advanced techniques for data integration and transaction management within federated databases. The research falls under the broader topic of **communication** networks.
This paper on federated database architecture is well-suited for _ACM Transactions on Information Systems_ because it addresses key challenges in information sharing and interchange, central themes in the journal’s scope. The federated approach, with its emphasis on controlled sharing among autonomous databases, offers a practical solution for managing information in distributed systems, aligning with the journal's focus on advancing information systems technology.