Searching heterogeneous and distributed maritime databases: a technology prototype

Abstract

[Extract] Much of the data from archaeological investigations reside in heterogeneous databases in separate locations with different formats and dissimilar structures. In addition, data from individual excavations and other research are frequently placed in databases that are maintained and accessed solely by the group responsible for the project. Due to the differing file formats, lack of access via a cohesive network, and issues regarding ownership and use of data, researchers have found it difficult to query multiple databases in order to perform cross-site analysis. In the past, the archaeological community has attempted to solve this problem by requiring that data by integrated into a central database, such as the National Shipwreck Database.