Data element

In metadata, a data element is an atomic unit of data with a precise meaning. A data element has a name and a definition, and may also include one or more representation terms, enumerated values, and synonyms in other metadata registries.

Data elements are fundamental components of data models, and are described by data dictionaries. Collections of data elements form data structures that represent and organize information within databases and other data systems.

Well-defined data elements facilitate data mapping by providing consistent definitions and reducing ambiguity. If, however, data elements are overloaded with multiple meanings, data integration and system understanding become more difficult.

In telecommunications, the term "data element" also refers to a named unit of data or information that represents a distinct item or attribute.

Properties

A data element has:

An identification such as a data element name

A clear data element definition

One or more representation terms

Optional enumerated values Code (metadata)

A list of synonyms to data elements in other metadata registries Synonym ring

Name

A data element name is a name given to a data element in, for example, a data dictionary or metadata registry. In a formal data dictionary, there is often a requirement that no two data elements may have the same name, to allow the data element name to become an identifier, though some data dictionaries may provide ways to qualify the name in some way, for example by the application system or other context in which it occurs.

In a database driven data dictionary, the fully qualified data element name may become the primary key, or an alternate key, of a Data Elements table of the data dictionary.