Advanced Topics in Data Analytics
Group 2: Compressed Data Structures for Query Processing
This group studies compressed representations for query processing, including bitmap indexes, decision diagrams, and modern compressed and succinct data structures.
Course information
| Semester | Winter semester 2026/27 |
|---|---|
| Instructors | Anna Bolotina |
| Contact | anna.bolotina@plus.ac.at |
| Kickoff | 6 October 2026 |
| Meetings and location | Tuesdays, 13 October–17 November 2026: 11:45–14:00, Hörsaal I — Christian Doppler (JAK2AUG0.70). Tuesdays, 24 November 2026–26 January 2027: 12:00–14:15, Hörsaal II — Lise Meitner (JAK2AUG0.69). |
| Optional consultations | 27 October 2026, 11:45–14:00, Hörsaal I. 19 January 2027, 12:00–14:15, Hörsaal II. Attendance is not compulsory. |
| Course platforms | Lecture materials and assignment information will be posted here. Upload reports to Blackboard. Official course information and appointments in PLUSonline |
Schedule exceptions: No meetings on 3 November or 8 December 2026. Christmas break: 19 December 2026–6 January 2027. The kickoff is additional to the 11 appointments in PLUSonline.
Course structure
- Compressed Bitmap Indexes. Bitmap queries, data characteristics and compressed bitmap formats.
- Decision Diagrams. Boolean functions, structural sharing and variable ordering.
- Modern Compressed and Succinct Data Structures. Compact representations and experimental evaluation of research papers.
Lecture materials
| Date | Topic | Materials |
|---|---|---|
| 6 Oct 2026 | Kickoff meeting | Available after the meeting |
| 13 Oct 2026 | Introduction to Bitmap Indexes: bitmap indexes and Boolean queries; run-length encoding; density and clustering. | To be added |
| 20 Oct 2026 | Compressed Bitmap Representations: WAH, EWAH and Roaring; comparing formats on different data patterns; Assignment 1 requirements, metrics and correctness checks. | To be added |
Further lecture topics and materials will be added as the course progresses.
Assignments
| Assignment | Report due | Presentation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Compression Benchmark | 3 Nov 2026 | 10 Nov 2026 |
| 2. Variable Ordering Explorer | 24 Nov 2026 | 1 Dec 2026 |
| 3. Paper Reproduction | 19 Jan 2027 | 26 Jan 2027 |
Individual or group work will be decided once enrolment is final, before the first assignment is released.
Reports are due one week before the presentation. All reports are due by 23:59 on the listed date (Salzburg local time). Detailed assignment specifications will be posted here.
Assessment and submission requirements
Each assignment requires a written report and a presentation. Upload your report to Blackboard. Code submission is not required; you must be able to explain your methods and results.
| Assignment | Presentation | Report | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compression Benchmark | 20% | 10% | 30% |
| Variable Ordering Explorer | 20% | 10% | 30% |
| Paper Reproduction | 30% | 10% | 40% |
Evaluation criteria: Clear explanation of methods and results, and answering questions.
Late submissions: Extensions may be granted for illness or other exceptional circumstances. Contact me as soon as possible.
Participation and collaboration
Attendance: Attendance is required; up to two absences are allowed. Optional consultations do not count towards this limit.
Collaboration: Discussing ideas and methods is encouraged. Your report and presentation must reflect your own work and understanding.
Use of sources and AI tools
Cite papers, datasets, libraries and any reused text or figures.
Suggested AI assistant: Antigravity CLI with Gemini Flash. A free tier is available; usage limits apply and can be checked with /usage. A starter framework will be provided for the assignments.
- Permitted use: AI may assist with brainstorming, programming and language editing.
- Disclosure: Briefly state which tools you used and for what purpose in your report.
- Responsibility: Verify generated content and references. Your work must reflect your own understanding, and you must be able to explain your methods and results.
PLUS guide to AI tools in assessed work (September 2025, in German)
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