19. Object-Relational Support
The SQL:2003 standard introduced a variety of object-relational features. Although not all relational DBMSs support this part of the standard, you will find at least some OR features in most of today's major DBMSs.
Note: There are some people who cling to the pure relational data model like a lifeline. However, in practice there is nothing that requires you to avoid SQL's OR features. If those features can help model your database environment, then those designing your database shouldn't be afraid to use them. Just be aware of the referential integrity issues that can arise when you store more than one piece of data in a single column in a single row.
SQL provides four column data types for OR storage as well as support ...
Get SQL Clearly Explained, 2nd Edition now with the O’Reilly learning platform.
O’Reilly members experience books, live events, courses curated by job role, and more from O’Reilly and nearly 200 top publishers.
