When a data object is fully contained in a single rectangle, the choice is clear.
There of course is a common denominator: a group of data objects.
In replicated databases, a data object has copies present at several sites.
All data objects were stored with a tag in memory, so that the type could be determined at runtime.
Collections are composite data objects built from a number of other objects.
On the other hand, we would like to have bounding volumes that fit the corresponding data objects very tightly.
Each copy has its own set of data objects and is termed an image.
This data object is used in the terminal's decision whether to accept, decline or go on-line for a payment transaction.
Likewise, large data objects may be broken up and distributed into local memories with parallel access.
An example of a data object could be a bank account.