A Three-Level Database Architecture


This picture is from ANSI/SPARC (Standards Planning And Requirements Committee) for a layered model of database architecture:


      A man is struggling to find a parking space.    
      “Lord,” he prays. “I can’t stand this. If you open a space up for me,    
      I swear I’ll give up the drink and go to mass every Sunday.”    
      Suddenly, the clouds part and the sun shines on an empty parking spot.    
      Without hesitation, the man says: “Never mind, I found one!”