Abstract: A database can be constructed in which the data is stored as a data model structure, and a GUI definition is stored as a substantially mirror image of the data structure where portions of the structure have unique names and where different versions of the data model have similar names for semantically similar portions of the data model. The data model and the GUI definition can be combined to produce a display model data entry screen which can be used to enter data into the database. The GUI definition may lack data, but may also comprise a definition for a graphical object which will display the data. Adding fields to the display model data entry screen can automatically update the data model structure and the GUI definition. Earlier datasets generated using an original display model data entry screen can be automatically updated to reflect the new data model structure.