A data model in software engineering is an abstract model that describes how data is represented and accessed. Data models formally define data elements and relationships among data elements for a domain of interest. Data model explicitly determines the meaning of data, which in this case is known as structured data (as opposed to unstructured data, for example an image, a binary file or a natural language text, where the meaning has to be elaborated).

Typical applications of data models include database models, design of information systems, and enabling exchange of data. Usually data models are specified in a data modeling language..A data model can be sometimes referred to as a data structure, especially in the context of programming languages.

Data models are often complemented by function models, especially in the context of enterprise models. Managing large quantities of structured and unstructured data is a primary function of information systems. Data models describe structured data for storage in data management systems such as relational databases.

They typically do not describe unstructured data, such as word processing documents, email messages, pictures, digital audio, and video. Data models support data and computer systems by providing the definition and format of data. If this is done consistently across systems then compatibility of data can be achieved.

If the same data structures are used to store and access data then different applications can share data. The results of this are indicated above. However, systems and interfaces often cost more than they should, to build, operate, and maintain.

They may also constrain the business rather than support it. A major cause is that the quality of the data models implemented in systems and interfaces is poor.

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