MODELING AN INFORMATION-SYSTEM USING THE MERISE METHOD FOR AGRICULTURAL-RESEARCH - THE EXAMPLE OF A DATABASE FOR A STUDY ON PERFORMANCES IN DAIRY-COWS

The MERISE method for designing the information system for a research project is described, with emphasis on the data modelling steps. The description is based on an example concerning the design of a relational database, to be used in an exploratory study of the interrelationships between production and health performances of dairy cows over their productive life. The collection of requirements, the construction of a conceptual data model, its conversion into a logical data model suited to a relational structure, and the influence of processing trends on data models, are thus illustrated. It is suggested that using standard guidelines for designing an information system is an aid to research, and the useful role of data conceptual models is pointed out.