August-II: a tool for step-by-step data model reverse engineering

August-II is a data reverse engineering tool whose input can be from a variety of sources from COBOL record layouts to DB/2 data definitions. The translation that is done is designed to produce a conceptual data model to that allows the user to understand the current environment and to move to new data technology. August-II produces output that can be used as input to many different software packages such as CASE tools and commercial database management systems. The power behind August-II is two-fold: the "layered data architecture" of its information dictionary system; and the step-by-step reverse engineering process. The layered data architecture allows August-II the capability of representing the wide range of data environments in use today. The step-by-step takes the database designer through the reverse engineering process in such a way that the user can concentrate on one aspect of the process at a time and not to get bogged down in the process itself.