Abstract: The proposed approach includes a method and system for managing integrated circuit (IC) design information for multiple data stores. Each data store is split into sections, allowing larger data sets to be compared. Keys are assigned to objects in each data set, in order to determine if objects are added, deleted, or modified between multiple data stores, and also to determine object differences. The user may compare and merge differences between the data stores, using either a graphical or text-based approach. The proposed approach is highly efficient and accurate for large databases. The proposed approach allows the user to easily visualize differences in complex databases and to merge in desired changes easily.

Abstract: A computer-implemented method for providing security in a relational database hosted by a first server, and configured to interact with a second server, includes associating a first ownership vector with an object in the relational database, detecting a change to the object, and associating a second ownership vector with the object in response to detecting the change to the object.

Abstract: Described are methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer program products for managing a hierarchy of modules. A user can select a first hierarchy or a second hierarchy, where the first hierarchy includes a module and a first sub-module. The module is associated with a component and the first sub-module is associated with a first sub-component of the component. The module is associated with the first sub-module using a first hierarchical reference of a first type. The second hierarchy includes the module and a second sub-module, where the second sub-module is associated with the first sub-component. The module is associated with the second sub-module using a second hierarchical reference of a second type that is different from the first type.

Abstract: Described are methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer program products for a version-controlled cached data store. A first node is associated with a first identifier and a first version. A control file is received, where the control file includes information associating a second node with a second identifier and a second version. The first version is compared with the second version when the first identifier and the second identifier are identical.