A conceptual schema is a database-independent blueprint for a graph. It identifies nodes, edges, properties, real-world entities, relationships, and the rules or constraints governing what the graph can represent. section 8.2.2
Use a conceptual schema to make graph design understandable before choosing an implementation:
- Describe whether the graph has multiple node or edge types. section 8.2.2
- State which real-world entities and relationships the elements represent. section 8.2.2
- Record representation constraints and communicate the design through diagrams or written documentation. section 8.2.2
At left is the relationship nomenclature for ER diagrams. At right is an example of a conceptual schema using an ER diagram.
An ER-diagram view helps communicate relationship nomenclature alongside a concrete conceptual schema. section 8.2.2
