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 HCL 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.