Tables in a remote database need not be identical to those in the consolidated database. Synchronized data in one remote application table can be distributed between columns in different tables. You specify these relationships using synchronization scripts.

The simplest and most common design uses a table structure in the remote database that is a subset of that in the consolidated database. Using this design, every table in the remote database exists in the consolidated database. Corresponding tables have the same structure and foreign key relationships as those in the consolidated database.

The consolidated database frequently contains columns and tables that are not synchronized. Some of these columns or tables may be used to assist synchronization. For example, a timestamp column can identify new or updated rows in the consolidated database; or a shadow table can be used to track deletes. Non-synchronized columns or tables in the consolidated database can also hold information that is not required at remote sites.

Remote databases also frequently contain tables or columns that aren't synchronized.

• MobiLink data mappings between remote and consolidated databases