Ternary relationships – to three or not to three, is there a question?

Recent empirical research offers general data modelling guidance, claiming to show that object-oriented modelling is less effective than entity-relationship modelling. The use of ternary relationship notation in these empirical experiments is examined in detail to reveal that assumptions made by researchers result in findings that are divorced from current modelling practice, cannot be generalised, and are misleading. Research assumptions are shown to be encouraged by inappropriate research methods and this supports the argument of some writers for the adoption of different research methods that inform practice.