ITA 3: Problem Solving Methodology and Database software
Chapter 2, Developing a solution using database software, p 37 In the previous chapter the problem solving methodology was introduced as a way of
solving information technology problems.
There are seven stages of which only six are covered in this unit with documentation
not covered.
The keyword used to describe the stages is: ADDTDIE
We have already dealt with in detail the analysis and design stage. In the design stage
the last aspect of it we examined was the use of a Project Management approach to
Problem Solving.
In this chapter we will through a database examine in detail at the problem solving
methodology.
Problem-Solving Methodology:
This is a structured process to determine a solution to a problem. It involves the
following seven steps:
1
Analyse the problem:
a) List what occurs during the analysis stage.
b) Briefly, in the example of Ralph’s Roofing, what are Ralph’s problems.
2
Design the Solution
a) list what occurs during the design stage
Structure of databases:
There are two distinct types of databases, Flat File Database and Relational
Databases.
Define the following terms:
flat file database
a. field
b. record
c. primary key
d. form or data entry screens
e. query
f. report
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g. macros or buttons or use of scripts
h. list the common data types, p 41
i. In filemaker pro what are the common data types?
Relational databases
a)
b)
c)
d)
define this type of database
one-to-one relationship, give an example
one-to-many relationship, give an example
many-to-many relationship, give an example
Database Design Tools
a)
b)
c)
d)
List the design tools used for a database
What does a data structure table contain?
Draw the structure diagram, fig. 2-5A.
Naming Conventions, list the commonly accepted conventions.
Query Design
a)
What does setting a field size to integer do?
Layout Diagram
a)
b)
What does the layout diagram involve?
What are some of the essential elements specific to reports.
Test Data
a)
b)
What is the purpose of test data?
What is a test plan?
Flow Charts
a)
b)
Describe the role of a flow chart.
Using the draw tools draw the common flow chart symbols used.
Characteristics of effective user interfaces, p 184-188
The user interface is where the user interacts with the information system. The
layout diagram plans the appearance of on-screen output.
High quality user interfaces take into account usability and accessibility. Take
brief notes relating to:
Usability
 Transparency
 Font selection
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Accessibility
 Find information easily
 Instructions for navigating help files
 Consistent navigation
Appropriate and relevant information according to audience.
3
Develop the Solution, p 50
In this stage the various elements of the database is constructed. This stage
involves:
 Purchasing hardware and software
 Construct the tables
 Queries
 Input forms
 Reports
 Macros
 Programming
Validating Data
a)
b)
c)
d)
4
Distinguish between manual and electronic validation.
List the types of electronic validation available in databases.
What is an input mask?
List the validation options in Filemaker Pro.
Testing the Solution and Output
a)
b)
Why is testing carried out?
List and describe the four types of testing:
a. Informal
b. Formal
c. Bench test
d. User acceptance testing
Testing validation
a)
Why is the validation tested?
Testing the query
a)
What test data should be chosen to test the query?
5
Documentation to support Solutions
a) What does documentation involve?
b) List the different types of:
a. Electronic documentation and
b. Hard copy documentation
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c) What is most important consideration in creating user documentation?
d) What type of documentation do technicians need?
e) What type of documentation do people need who only access the system
infrequently?
6
Implementation
a) What is a key component of implementation?
b) What strategy did Anna use to train the staff at Ralph’s Roofing?
7
Evaluation
Evaluating the efficiency and effectiveness of the solution.
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
What does the evaluation step involve?
How is efficiency measured?
What does effectiveness relate to?
How soon after the implementation of the solution does it take place?
What tools are used for the evaluation?
Capabilities and limitations of DMS.
o
o
o
o
Capabilities refers to how well a piece of hardware or software performs its
functions
Capabilities, sort, query, macros
Capabilities, refer to notes on relational databases
Limitations of DBMS
o Refer to notes flat file Vs relational DBMS
Test Your Knowledge:
From p 74 complete the Questions relating to Problem-solving and databases.
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