Databases and database systems continually assume a more critical place at the center of the information systems architecture for many companies and organizations. Coupled with data warehouses and advanced data mining techniques, an increasing number of organizations now have powerful analytic and predictive tools available to help them gain and maintain competitive advantage. In addition, connecting back office databases and data warehouses with the Web is becoming vital for a growing number of organizations. The preceding developments and events in the practical business world provide the backdrop for research into the creation of ever more sophisticated means to the ends regarding information systems.