In 1995, David Hay published "Data Model Patterns: Conventions of Thought" -- the groundbreaking book on how to use standard data models to describe the standard business situations. This book builds on the concepts presented there, adds 15 years of practical experience, and presents a more comprehensive view. You will learn how to apply both the abstract and concrete elements of your enterprise's architectural data model through four levels of abstraction: Level 0: An abstract template that underlies the Level 1 model that follows, plus two meta models; Level 1: An enterprise model that is generic enough to apply to any company or government agency, but concrete enough to be readily understood by all; Level 2: A more detailed model describing specific functional areas; Level 3: Examples of the details a model can have to address what is truly unique in a particular industry.