Context
Data dictionary — defined reality vs. bounded reality
Observation
A data dictionary includes definitions, allowable values (domain), attributes, and usage guidelines for each data element.
Pattern
Data dictionaries define not only what data exists, but how those elements can be represented and used within a system.
Insight
Reality in a system is not just defined—it is bounded.
The data dictionary constrains representation through allowable values (domain), structure (attributes), and usage rules (guidelines).
Application
The data dictionary directly influences CDS accuracy, alert precision, and clinician trust by shaping the signal-to-noise ratio and the fidelity of the reality represented in the system.
