map-as-metaphor

The chapter introduces the analogy between maps and data models, emphasizing that both are symbolic representations simplifying complex realities, and highlights the inherent limitations of formal data modeling due to the ambiguous and subjective nature of real-world information. It also addresses persistent misconceptions in the computing community, particularly the gap between IT departments and business professionals, and explains that the challenges in data semantics are amplified by systems complexity, role specialization, and tainted thinking. The chapter sets the scope of the book to business-related information systems and reframes common perceptions about computers by emphasizing their fundamental simplicity rather than complexity.