Schema Design Process

Schema design involves doing the following:

• Mapping your data to the default schema.

  To map existing data to the default schema, identify the type of object that each data element describes then select a similar object class from the default schema. Use the common object classes, such as groups, people, and organizations. Select a similar attribute from the matching object class that best matches the data element.

• Identifying unmatched data.

• Extending the default schema to define new elements to meet your remaining needs.

  If data elements exist that do not match the object classes and attributes defined by the default directory schema, you can customize the schema. You can also extend the schema to impose additional constraints on the existing schema. For more information, see About Custom Schema in Oracle Fusion Middleware Administration Guide for Oracle Directory Server Enterprise Edition.

• Planning for schema maintenance.

Where possible, use the existing schema elements that are defined in the default Directory Server schema. Standard schema elements help to ensure compatibility with directory-enabled applications. Because the schema is based on the LDAP standard, it has been reviewed and agreed to by a large number of directory users.