PubMed1997
The complexity of genome data limits the usefulness of traditional database management systems. The highly interconnected structure of genome data can be captured in a data representation language based on the mathematical formalism of graphs. We have tailored graphs for describing genome data and have developed a database management system, called the Data Note System, for developing small databases to capture data from genome laboratories. To simplify the use of the Data Note System, a series of tools with graphical user interfaces has been developed. The system is designed to be easy to install and use by novice database developers with a minimal amount of computer expertise. We describe the tools and present examples of their use. The system consists of a storage facility, a schema editing tool to simplify the design of small databases, and three tools for data entry and querying.