Data Engineering has become a necessary and critical activity for business, engineering, and scientific organizations as the move to service oriented architecture and web services moves into full swing. Notably, the US Department of Defense is mandating that all of its agencies and contractors assume a defining presence on the Net-centric Global Information Grid. This book provides the first practical approach to data engineering and modeling, which supports interoperabililty with consumers of the data in a service- oriented architectures (SOAs). Although XML (eXtensible Modeling Language) is the lingua franca for such interoperability, it is not sufficient on its own. The approach in this book addresses critical objectives such as creating a single representation for multiple applications, designing models capable of supporting dynamic processes, and harmonizing legacy data models for web-based co-existence. The approach is based on the System Entity Structure (SES) which is a well-defined structure, methodology, and practical tool with all of the functionality of UML (Unified Modeling Language) and few of the drawbacks. The SES originated in the formal representation of hierarchical simulation models. So it provides an axiomatic formalism that enables automating the development of XML dtds and schemas, composition and decomposition of large data models, and analysis of commonality among structures.

Zeigler and Hammond will include a full range of features to benefit their readers. Templates for SOA and webservice design and other format standards ease construction of data models. Translations from format standards including UML allow direct mapping of legacy meta-data. Examples and case studies provide insight into data engineering in the real world; because classified information can't be published, all these examples are non-military, which broadens the appeal of the book. Information on software tools, modeling and simulation connectivity benefits, and support options enable programmers to work with advanced tools in the area. The website of the Arizona Center for Integrative Modeling and Simulation, co-founded by Zeigler in 2001, provides downloadable open-source software to accompany the book. * The only practical guide to integrating XML and web services in data engineering * Complements Zeigler's classic THEORY OF MODELING AND SIMULATION * Covers the interoperability standards mandated by national and international agencies.