Orthogonality

In an orthogonal system, such as an object-relational database, the various parts work together in a natural, semantically logical way.

For example, an orthogonal DataBlade module provides solutions only for the problems it is intended to solve, and it relies on the IBM® Informix® server or other DataBlade modules to solve problems outside of its domain. Similarly, an orthogonal DataBlade module allows other DataBlade modules to use its facilities in a natural, semantically logical way.

The SimpleMap DataBlade module, for example, does not implement full-text search. It is more effective if developers who are experts in text search facilities create DataBlade modules that satisfy this requirement. The SimpleMap DataBlade module can then supply geospatial functionality; it does not need to define routines over types that it does not create.

A simple guideline for ensuring orthogonality in DataBlade module development is, “It does few things well.”