Automated generation of multi-tenant database systems based upon system design diagrams

Abstract

Energetic technological advancements in the past decade have led to an exponential increase in the amount of data being stored. Consequently, the need for effective Database Management Systems (DBMSs) which embody security considerations from the initial stages of database design is imperative in modern information systems development. This prerequisite is further accentuated by the recent transitioning from single tenant information systems to multi-tenant based on public cloud infrastructures. Within this context, this paper proposes a Computer-Aided Software Engineering (CASE) tool capable of generating secure database related structures and processes. A comprehensive overview of a specific information system design is provided to the CASE tool by means of entity-relationship diagram, entity life history and dataflow diagram. Subsequently, crucial security controls targeted towards the protection of database objects are incorporated by means of discretionary and role-based access controls. Following the encoding of the system's design data is adorned with the required security elements, the CASE tool performs an in-depth analysis that aids in the detection of potential security pitfalls. Provided that the database design enhanced with security elements is satisfactory, i.e., all checks conducted are successful, the CASE tool generates Structured Query Language (SQL) language constructs for well-known multi-tenant scenarios.