15linked

15linked is a hypothetical data model concept used to illustrate fixed-degree, multi-relational graphs. In this model, each node represents an entity and can expose up to 15 named links that express relationships to other nodes. The idea is to study how restricting the number of outgoing connections per node affects graph traversal, storage, and query design.

Link roles are explicit; every link carries a role label, a target node identifier, and optional metadata such as a timestamp or weight. The model emphasizes explicit semantics for relationships, rather than relying solely on generic adjacency.

Applications proposed in educational and design contexts include knowledge graphs, content management systems, and provenance tracking. By capping the number of links, 15linked aims to simplify certain indexing strategies and improve predictability in traversal algorithms, while still supporting many-to-one and many-to-many relationships through multiple links per node.

Limitations include rigidity from the fixed cap of 15, which can force awkward representations for domains with broader connectivity. There is no formal standard or widespread implementation, so interoperability remains limited. Performance characteristics depend on implementation details such as indexing, storage layout, and link compression.

Origins and status: The concept appears in instructional materials and demonstrations about graph data modeling and is not an established industry standard. Example structures in these materials show nodes with a mix of 15 distinct role-labeled links to target nodes.

See also knowledge graph, graph database, linked data, data modeling.