The document discusses distributed database management systems (DBMS). It covers distributed DBMS architecture and design challenges like data fragmentation, distribution, and allocation. Key points discussed include different levels of data sharing and knowledge; static vs dynamic access patterns; top-down vs bottom-up design approaches; and horizontal and vertical fragmentation with examples. Factors to consider for distribution design such as why and how to fragment data, the degree of fragmentation, and information requirements are also summarized.