Authorization Request

A request initiated by a user to access a database for which he or she does not have access privileges. The criteria used to evaluate this request are called the “authorization rule.”

Atomic Data

Data items containing the lowest level of detail. For example, in a daily maintenance activity report, the individual equipment used would be atomic data, while rollups like summary totals from equipment rental invoices are aggregate data (see also aggregate data).

Asset Management

A strategic approach to managing transportation infrastructure. Asset Management requires integrated data and information to make comprehensive decisions regarding assets.

Archive

A collection of computer files that have been packaged together for backup, for transfer to some other location, for saving away from the computer so that more hard disk storage can be made available, or for some other purpose. An archive can include a simple list of files or files organized under a directory or… Continue reading Archive

Application Program Interface (API)

The specific method specified by a computer operating system or program through which a programmer can make requests to the operating system of another application. An API can be differentiated with a graphical user interface (GUI) or a command interface, which are direct user interfaces to an operating system or a program (see also graphical… Continue reading Application Program Interface (API)

Application Integration

The process of bringing data or functions from one application together with those of another application using real-time or near real-time communication. Integration involves the ability to use interfaces employed by different applications.

Application

Short for application program, which is a software program designed to perform a specific function directly for the user or, in some cases, for another software program. Examples of applications include database programs, word processors, and graphics tools.