Algorithmic debugging of SQL views

Abstract

We present a general framework for debugging systems of correlated SQL views. The debugger locates an erroneous view by navigating a suitable computation tree. This tree contains the computed answer associated with every intermediate relation, asking the user whether this answer is expected or not. The correctness and completeness of the technique is proven formally, using a general definition of SQL operational semantics. The theoretical ideas have been implemented in an available tool which includes the possibility of employing trusted specifications for reducing the number of questions asked to the user. © 2012 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.