analysis & design final project
DESCRIPTION
Final Project for Analysis & Design at Auburn University. The semester was based off of spending time fixing Network Infrastructure for a company with IT issues. This document shows our progress.TRANSCRIPT
Jonathan Luke Howard
Current Location: Auburn, AlabamaW: vinno.co T: 404.557.4232 E: [email protected]
Education Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama August 2008 - PresentBachelor of Science in Business AdministrationInformation Systems ManagementCurrent Status: Senior
ExperienceLIGHTING DIRECTOR, Student LifeJune 2012-August 2012Birmingham, AlabamaResponsible for assembling the lighting system in Student Life warehouse in preparation for events; directing riggers, paid stage hands and volunteers in setting up and tearing down of lighting equipment; maintenance and repair of lighting system including console, dimmers and moving lights; operating lighting console for worship services that included drama, speaking and worship.
OVERNIGHT AUDITOR, The Hotel at Auburn University June 2011 – April 2011Auburn, AlabamaResponsible for all guest interaction overnight as well as receive any phone calls: external or internal. Responsible for auditing guest room rates and maintaining the system. Deal with any issues from the day as well as prepare the system for the next day. Duties include guest interaction, assisting with security, managing overnight process, monthly meetings with team, and developing a system for managing guest duplications.
RESIDENT ASSISTANT, Auburn University Housing and Residence Life May 2009 - May 2010Auburn, AlabamaI was responsible for managing a floor of 40 male residents. I also had to document incidents and build community within the on-campus residence halls. Duties included creating activities for residents, being present and around building during my required nights and weekends of each semester, and attending bi-weekly meetings with my superiors.
Skills Computer Literacy: PC and Apple Macintosh SystemsSoftware Knowledge: Windows (XP, 7), Mac OSX, Microsoft Office Professional Package (Word, PowerPoint, Excel), Apple iWork (Pages, Keynote, Numbers), Adobe Design Studio (Photoshop, Dreamweaver, Fireworks), Apple MotionContent Management System Knowledge: WordPress, CuteNewsBusiness Systems Knowledge: Typing (approx. 80 wpm), Photocopiers, Fax MachineSafe Zone Certified, 2010CPR Certified, 2011
Achievements & InvolvementsAuburn University Athletic Department, Jordan Hare Stadium Sound EngineerFirst Baptist Church of Opelika, Lighting Designer and Production VolunteerAuburn University Residence Hall Association (AuRHA), PresidentSouth Atlantic Affiliate of College and University Residence Halls (SAACURH), Webmaster
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Brian Macheski(706)580-3824
8032 Adelaide Dr. Columbus, Georgia [email protected]
Education
Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, December 2012Major: Information Systems Management Minor: Spanish
Relevant Experience Columbus Cardiology, Columbus, GA08/2012 - Present
Maintained EHR system software Maintained computer systems Corrected technical problems with staff
Additional Experience R Lucas Construction and Design 05/2008- 08/2009
Estimated cost of materials Managed projects and staff
Technical Skills – MS Office, Powerpoint, Excel, Java, SQL, Python
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Denarian McKinnon715 West Glenn Ave Apt 28 36832
Auburn Al334-237-3678
Summary: " Demonstrated achiever with exceptional knowledge and an outstanding academic background throughout high school and college." Skilled at learning new concepts quickly, performing well under pressure, and communicating ideas clearly and effectively." Extensive computer experience and the ability to learn and assist
others." Enthusiastic, respectful and very likable personality." Very proficient with information technology, office applications and basic software and hardware troubleshooting techniques
Experience: Old Navy Opelika AlabamaCashier August 2010 to Present
Auburn University Auburn AlabamaTele-Recruiter August 2010 to PresentRecorded and delivered messages and furnished information.
Winn Dixie Auburn AlabamaMeat Clerk March 2010 to August 2010Received, stored and ground meats, cleaned grinder, meat containers and storage room with water hose and broom
Thomas Foods Louisville AlabamaCashier/Stock Clerk April 2006 to July 2009Itemized and totaled customer merchandise selection at checkout counter, using cash register and accepted cash and charge card for purchases. Requisitioned merchandise from supplier based on available space, merchandise based on on hand, customer demand and advertised specials.
Education: Auburn University Auburn, AlabamaBachelors of Science in Business Administration December 2013Bachelors degree in Information Systems Management expected December 2013
Affiliations: Public Relations Director of Black Student Union August 2010 - February 2011Vice Social Chairman of Harold A. Franklin Society August 2010 - February 2011
PLUS Minority Program August 2009 - May 2010 AT&T Minority Engineering Program August 2009 - May 2010
Social Chairman (Greek Letter Organization) April 2011 - Present
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William Perry(850)-896-0856 [email protected]
Relevant Skills: Strong communication skills Proficient with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint Moderate PL/SQL database skills
Education: Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
Degree in Information Systems ManagementAuburn University, Auburn, ALAuburn University College of Business Graduating December 2012
Bachelor of Science in Business AdministrationDegree in AccountingJacksonville University, Jacksonville, FLDavis College of Business Graduated May 2011
Related Coursework: Business Computer Applications Intro to Management Information Systems Business Telecom Management Advanced Programming & Applications Database Management Systems Current Issues In Information Systems For Organizations Security & Information Assurance
Work Experience:Captain Anderson’s Restaurant & Waterfront MarketPanama City Beach, FL
Cashier Summer 2007 Waiter Summer 2008-2011
W.D. Bass and Company (Accounting)Panama City, FL
Accounting Intern Summer 2012Accomplishments:
Academico Florida Bright Futures Scholar
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o 3.294 Cumulative GPA at Jacksonville Universityo Pioneer Football League Academic Honor Rollo 3.7 Cumulative GPA at Auburn University
Athletico Florida High School “Old Spice” Player of the Year (for Leadership)o Jacksonville University Football (3 Year Starter at Linebacker)o 2-time All-Conference Selection (Junior and Senior year)o Jacksonville University Team Captain (Senior year)
CWM Caitlyn Marianne Wiggins1385 S. Donahue Dr. Apt. 6-101
Auburn, AL 36832(334)549-7830 [email protected]
OBJECTIVETo find employment that is involved in the ever changing world of Information Technology or Information Security.
EDUCATIONAuburn University Auburn, AL Dec 2012Information Systems ManagementMajor GPA: 3.32
ACTIVITIES Social Sorority
Aug 2008 – May 2012 Information Systems Management Honor Society
Aug 2012 – Dec 2012 AU College Republicans Aug 2010 – Dec 2012
Sorority and Coed Intramurals Aug 2008 – Dec 2011
WORK EXPERIENCEKohl’s Montgomery, AL June 2007– Present
Processing Returns Running a Register Helping customers order merchandise from other stores and the corporate warehouse Organizing returns to go back to the floor Processing damages Providing Customer Service
Bed, Bath, & Beyond Opelika, AL Sept 2010 – Dec 2010 Stocked the sales floor with new inventory Up stocked and down stocked new inventory Helped customers find items
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Helped customers order items off the online store Run the register
SKILLS Proficient With: Microsoft Word, Microsoft PowerPoint, Microsoft Excel Knowledgeable In: Java, SQL Certified In: Mac Integration Basics Currently Learning: LINUX, Visible Analyst
Project ProposalIntroduction
The proposal below is focused on the company Howard Brothers and the inconsistencies with
their client management systems.
Company: Howard Brothers
Howard Brothers is a company based out of the northern Atlanta suburbs that is a hardware and
commercial lawn equipment retailer. The business is run by brothers John and Doug Howard.
The store was originally started by their father in 1972. They are currently working on expanding
from a mom and pop store to a large retailer. They specialize in personal service to each of their
customers, some that have been shopping with them for over 30 years! Howard Brothers sells
commercial lawn equipment to majority of the major lawn care providers in the Greater Atlanta
area. They also provide specialized parts to repair the equipment they sell. As well, they provide
maintenance and service for the equipment they sell. They also sell hardware such as shovels,
rakes, power tools, hand tools, screws, nails, etc.
Proposed Issues to be Fixed: Client Management
Howard Brother’s has several issues involving client management. Currently there are two
separate systems. One for hardware, and one for equipment, however, the hardware system is the
one that bills all invoices for the hardware and equipment, as well, it processes all monetary
transactions at time of check out. The equipment system is in place for management of inventory
and customer history- purchases, repairs, and special programs. They mentioned they had several
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redundant accounts within their client database. They also mentioned that the accounts between
the two systems do not communicate. When they update an account in the first system, they have
to physically update it in the second. With the addition of a fourth store within the next year, they
are looking for ways to digitally manage all customers across the four stores. Howard Brothers
also wants to be able to get feedback about the products and services purchased while still
connecting with the customers on a personal level.
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Howard Brother’s HistoryHoward's True Value Hardware was a new business adventure that Ed Howard started next to his small town
grocery store in Doraville, GA only a short walking distance from his house. Ed had purchased a family grocery
store from his in-laws in 1955. In the early 70's, Ed saw profit in selling small hardware items in his grocery
store. With the demand for hardware items increasing, Ed built a separate building next door for this small town
hardware store in 1972. After graduating college, Ed's sons Doug and John Howard went to work for their dad.
The market for hardware had changed and Doug and John saw profit in combining Hardware and Commercial
Lawn Equipment. With this new proposal, they built a store a few cities over in Duluth, GA in 1987. A few
years later, Ed saw how well his sons were doing with the stores and handed the business down to them. Shortly
after this transfer of ownership, John and Doug rebranded the company as Howard Brothers True Value.
In 1999 John and Doug decided it was time to expand their service area. They had the opportunity to purchase a
lawn equipment store in Oakwood, Georgia. Close to Lake Lanier and several large neighborhoods, this
location was perfect for a Howard Brothers Equipment store. Being the first Equipment only store, John and
Doug took their brand to this new location and started servicing a wider area of greater Atlanta. In 2004, they
built a new store down the road from this location that could house their growing inventory as well as a
hardware section. They then moved their business to this new location. Being the largest of the three stores,
they were able to build in features that they wanted in their old stores. Large repair areas, a huge warehouse for
inventory storage, and a drive thru loading area were only a few of the new features this store had. With the
purchase of an old fitness building in fall 2012, Howard Brothers is currently expanding to Alpharetta, GA,
another area of Atlanta not serviced by Howard Brothers. This will be the second equipment only store that
Howard Brothers owns.
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Organizational Chart
Equipment Mgr – Oakwood
(Greg)
Equipment Mgr – Duluth(Scott)
Equipment Mgr – Doraville
(Jeff)
Hardware Mgr – Oakwood
(Mark)
Hardware Mgr – Duluth(Jason)
Equipment Mgr(Tim)
Hardware Mgr (Cary)
Office/HR Mgr (John)
Marketing(Andy)
Sales Mgr(Doug)
Owners(John and Doug)
Note: All information systems are managed by an outside company.
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Stakeholder Description
Stakeholder Name Stakeholder Description
General Public The community or the people acting as consumers to Howard Brothers. The general public may be a commercial landscaper, backyard consumer, or any other person interacting with the company in the region.
Owners The owners are the people who generally run the company. They are the ones at risk the most by the project because of the money invested into it and how valuable customer accounts and transactions are.
Workers Employees of the company are affected because new systems can require new techniques to be learned when it comes to capturing customer information and tracking for feedback. New customer relation systems could also offer new jobs for the company relating to its Information Technology aspect.
Suppliers Howards Brothers has numerous suppliers delivering their hardware and commercial lawn equipment. With better customer relations and sales, inventory would be higher which would result in more orders to the company’s suppliers and possibly even adding more as profits increase.
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Project Charter
Project Objectives
This project will develop new business processes and supporting information system services to support
Howard Brothers in their endeavor to connect personally with their clients. It is hoped that by the end of the
project their overall personal customer service will be seamlessly integrated into their current Point of Sale
(POS) and seamlessly do the majority of the work for Howard Brothers. The scope of the project is hoped to
include: 1) Continues to portray a personal touch to the customer, during time of decision, time of purchase, and
post purchase. 2) Develop better feedback requests from Howard Brother's customers at time of purchase. 3)
Unify customer information between both equipment and hardware sides of the business to reduce duplicate
customer records. It is understood that Howard Brothers may have to redesign their business processes to fit the
solution.
Project Conception
This project was conceived after several conversations with Howard Brother's Marketing and Communications
Manager, Andy Darnell, on their current business processes. With Andy, we discovered several weaknesses in
their customer interaction phase that could potential boost loyalty in customers and create a better and more
personal experience that Howard Brothers desires for every customer. Their slogan, "Delivering the difference
since 1955" is reflective of their desire to be different from big box stores by providing one on one in store
service, as well, providing unique products that are hard to find in most chains.
Problem Statement
There are several processes associated with client management that been identified which could modified to
improve the Howard Brothers business. There is one system in place for each of the two primary categories of
products offered, hardware and equipment. The hardware system provides the invoicing for both hardware and
equipment, as well as processes transactions for purchases. The equipment system manages the inventory and a
complete history of each customer including repairs, purchases and special programs. The current processes
associated with the system do not provide sufficient client management in order to provide intimate customer
service, which is important to differentiate from larger competitors. The following problems have been made
evident as primary areas of concern:
1. Feedback from the customer is not possible with the current processes in place.
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2. The two sides of the business are unable to communicate with one another, creating possible errors and
unnecessary work processes by physically being required to update one set of customer records after the
other.
Initial Scope
This project will consist of a new system which will have an impact on the following business functions.
1. Sales and order entry
2. Warehousing
3. Inventory control and procurement
4. Accounts receivable and payable
5. Customer relation management
Project Vision
Project Area Description
Background: Howard Brothers is a company based out of the northern Atlanta suburbs that is a hardware and commercial lawn equipment retailer. The business is run by brothers John and Doug Howard. The store was originally started by their father in 1972. They are currently working on expanding from a mom and pop store to a large retailer.
Project Vision Statement: Our project information technology solutions for Howards Brothers will include:
Digitally transfer c-systems purchases to unity for checkout
Combined hardware and equipment client systems
Remove redundant systems
Digitally manage all customers
Allow customer records to simultaneously accept changes between accounts.
To follow-up with all customers after purchases and receive feedback.
Objective: To provide Howard Brothers with improved Customer Relation Management.
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Business Constraints
TimeTime is a concern for this project because we only have six weeks to successfully complete our research, analysis, and design on the improvements to customer management and interaction.
Distance With Howard Brothers being based out of Atlanta and our team residing in Auburn, communication is done via phone and e-mail which leaves room for error or ambiguity that can be easily clarified in a face to face environment.
Money Because of the limited amount of funds, only a certain amount of system redesign can actually be afforded and implemented.
Technology Constraints
The new system or additions to the existing system must conform to the following information system architecture standards already in place:
1. The architecture of the current hardware database system, Unity.
2. The architecture of the current equipment database system, C-systems.
3. The current messaging architecture is based on Outlook clients (for e-calendar and e-mail) running on a Microsoft Exchange Server.
4. Internet and intranet are both maintained through offsite servers.
5. Internally, all client workstations will run the Windows XP or Windows 7 desktop operating system including the Internet Explorer Web browser.
Project Strategy
All phases of IS development will be subject to the following process strategies:
1. In order to achieve our strategic goal of Level III on the Software Engineering Institute’s Capability Maturity
Model, the system must be developed in accordance with the FAST (Framework for Advanced Systems
Techniques) development processes. Many of the following FAST routes will be considered when looking for
development possibilities: (a) Model-Driven Development, (b) Rapid Application Development, (c)
Commercial Off-the-Shelf System Integration, or a combination of the three.
2. All models will be developed using the Visible Analyst CASE tool, and an assortment of Microsoft Office
programs.
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Project Documentation and Communication
The following guidelines should be used for Project Documentation:
1. Any files should be uploaded to the group SkyDrive in the appropriate file or section for easy access by all members.
https://skydrive.live.com/?cid=0009AC5C10AF99BA&group=1#cid=0009AC5C10AF99BA&group=1
2. All Files should be in Times New Roman font and 12pt.
The following guidelines should be used for communications:
1. The team will hold weekly meetings on Monday nights and Thursday afternoons with an additional meet time on Sunday nights if needed.
2. Team members should use the e-mail group to communicate so all members can be appraised of any ongoing situation. Communication by phone is also encouraged if there are any questions that need a thorough explanation for an answer.
Project Organization and Staffing Approach
The project was loosely organized in the following way:
Team members were assigned specific roles that coincided with the Charter
Group reviews of any information to be included in the final project for errors
Individual checks on each team member by another member to ensure that nothing was missed in the completion of a section before the final group review
The project was staffed with a team member taking point in the following sections:
Organization, Documentation – Caitlyn Visible Analyst, Technology Constraints – William Background, History, Communication – Luke Project Scope – Brian Business Constraints – Denarian
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**THROW AWAY ** GANTT CHART
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**THROW AWAY ** GANTT CHART
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**THROW AWAY ** GANTT CHART
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Business Requirements Statement
System Improvement AnalysisInformation Sources Exploited
To understand Howard Brother’s systems we kept an open line of communication with co-owner's Doug and John and his marketing manager Andy. As well as team member Luke Howard who has firsthand experience with the company’s systems.
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PIECES Analysis
Performance:A. Throughput – Employees must manually input C-systems data directly into Unity.
B. Response Time – The amount of time it takes an individual employee to manually input relevant information.
Information (and Data):
A. Outputs 1. Information is difficult to produce 2. Information that is not timely to subsequent use 3. Information not in useful format
B. Inputs: Data is captured redundantly C. Stored Data: data stored redundantly
Economics:
A. Marketing Improved
Control (and Security):
A. Redundantly stored data is inconsistent in different files or databases
Efficiency:
A. People, machines, or computers waste timea. Data is redundantly input or copied
B. People, machines or computers waste materials and supplies
Service:
A. The system is not easy to learnB. The system is not coordinated with other systems.
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System Improvement Objectives
ID Brief Statement of Problem System Improvement Objective1 C-Systems purchases have to be
manually inputted into unity, this process needs to become automated.
Decrease the amount of employee interaction between C-systems and Unity
2 Multiple databases are used to store information, and they need to be consolidated into one database.
Consolidate information being used from multiple databases into a single database.
3 Currently there is no feedback requested from customers about their purchase and experience at Howard’s
Request survey from customers via e-mail at time of purchase.
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Use Case AnalysisUse Case Glossary and Diagram
User-Case Name Use-Case Description Participating Actors and RolesPurchase Equipment
This use case describes a customer requesting to purchase an item.
Customer: Primary businessEmployee: Primary business
Purchase Hardware
This use case describes a customer requesting to purchase an item.
Customer: Primary businessEmployee: Primary business
Customer Information Update
This use case describes an event of a customer submitting changes to his/her profile such as e-mail address, postal address, phone number, company, etc.
Customer: Primary BusinessEmployee: Primary business
Create Customer This use case describes an event of a new customer being added to the customer database. Collecting data such as name, phone, e-mail, billing address, company, etc.
Customer: Primary BusinessEmployee: Primary business
Place Order This use case describes an event of a customer submitting an order (item is out of stock)
Customer: Primary BusinessEmployee: Primary BusinessWarehouse: External Receiver
Cancel Order This use case describes an event of an order being cancelled.
Customer: Primary BusinessEmployee: Primary businessWarehouse: External Receiver
Post-Purchase Feedback
This use case describes the event of the marketing department requesting feedback from customers.
Marketing: Primary businessCustomer: Primary business
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Use Case Models *** THROW AWAY
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Logical Proccess Models *** THROW AWAY
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Logical Proccess Models *** THROW AWAY
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Logical Proccess Models *** THROW AWAY
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Logical Proccess Models *** THROW AWAY
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Logical Proccess Models *** THROW AWAY
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Logical Proccess Repository *** THROW AWAY
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Logical Proccess Repository *** THROW AWAY
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Logical Proccess Repository *** THROW AWAY
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Logical Proccess Repository *** THROW AWAY
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Logical Proccess Repository *** THROW AWAY
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Logical Proccess Repository *** THROW AWAY
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Logical Proccess Repository *** THROW AWAY
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Logical Proccess Repository *** THROW AWAY
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Logical Proccess Repository *** THROW AWAY
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Logical Proccess Repository *** THROW AWAY
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Logical Data Model *** THROW AWAY
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Logical Data Model and Detailed RequirementsLogical Data Requirements
INSERT C SYSTEMS CUSTOMER:
CUSTOMER ID
CUSTOMER NAME
CUSTOMER PHONE NUMBER
CUSTOMER EMAIL
CUSTOMER ADDRESS
UPDATE C SYSTEMS CUSTOMER
CUSTOMER ID
CUSTOMER NAME
CUSTOMER PHONE NUMBER
CUSTOMER EMAIL
CUSTOMER ADDRESS
DELETE C SYSTEMS CUSTOMER
CUSTOMER ID
--------------------------
INSERT C SYSTEMS INVENTORY
INVENTORY ID
PRODUCT NAME
PRODUCT PRICE
PRODUCT SERIAL NUMBER
INVENTORY DATE
UPDATE C SYSTEMS INVENTORY
INVENTORY ID
PRODUCT NAME
PRODUCT PRICE39
PRODUCT SERIAL NUMBER
INVENTORY DATE
DELETE C SYSTEMS INVENTORY
INVENTORY ID
--------------------------
INSERT C SYSTEMS PURCHASE
PURCHASE ID
PURCHASE DATE
INVENTORY ID
CUSTOMER ID
UPDATE C SYSTEMS PURCHASE
PURCHASE ID
PURCHASE DATE
DELETE C SYSTEMS PURCHASE
PURCHASE ID
--------------------------
INSERT UNITY CUSTOMER:
CUSTOMER ID
CUSTOMER NAME
CUSTOMER PHONE NUMBER
CUSTOMER EMAIL
CUSTOMER ADDRESS
CUSTOMER ACCOUNT NUMBER
UPDATE UNITY CUSTOMER
CUSTOMER ID
CUSTOMER NAME
CUSTOMER PHONE NUMBER
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CUSTOMER EMAIL
CUSTOMER ADDRESS
CUSTOMER ACCOUNT NUMBER
DELETE UNITY CUSTOMER
CUSTOMER ID
--------------------------
INSERT UNITY INVENTORY
INVENTORY ID
PRODUCT NAME
PRODUCT PRICE
INVENTORY DATE
UPDATE UNITY INVENTORY
INVENTORY ID
PRODUCT NAME
PRODUCT PRICE
INVENTORY DATE
DELETE UNITY INVENTORY
INVENTORY ID
--------------------------
INSERT UNITY PURCHASE
PURCHASE ID
PURCHASE DATE
INVENTORY ID
CUSTOMER ID
UPDATE UNITY PURCHASE
PURCHASE ID
PURCHASE DATE
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DELETE UNITY PURCHASE
PURCHASE ID
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Logical Network Requirements *** THROW AWAY
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System Proposal
Candidate System AnalysisCandidate System Feasibility Analysis Matrix
Characteristics Candidate 1 Candidate 2
Portion of System Computerized
The entire system is computerized.
Equipment purchases are printed on tickets at the purchase counter to be manually entered into the Unity system
Benefits The integrated interface will provide a single location to interact with the system.
Fully supports required business processes for Howard Brothers plus more efficient interaction with customers.
Servers and Workstations Specified by each system developer which is unknown to the client. Same as candidate 1
Software Tools Needed Develop a working prototype in the Oracle APEX environment. Use out of box solution
Application Software Custom Solution Use out of box solutionMethod of Data Processing Client/Server Same as candidate 1
Output Devices and Implications Server Same as candidate 1
Input Devices and Implications Keyboard & mouse Same as candidate 1
Storage Devices and Implications Database Same as candidate 1
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Alternative Solutions and Feasibility Analysis Matrix
Feasibility Criteria Weight Candidate 1 Candidate 2
Operational FeasibilitySave the employee time from entering redundant data and fully support user required functionality. Fully computerized.
Score: 95
Fully supports user required functionality, but through manual input, requiring more input time.
Score: 85
Functionality 40%
Technical Feasibility
Technology
40%
Current staff is trained in both Unity and C-Systems but this new database would require spending time and money either training the employees in database management or hiring an outside company to manage it.
Current staff is trained in both Unity and C-Systems, this new system will only require minimal database knowledge.
Expertise
Training will be done in store for employees in use of Unity and C-Systems, but preferable that the employee be well versed in database management.
Score: 88
Same as candidate 1
Score: 95Economic Feasibility
Cost to develop: $140,000 $80,000Payback period: 10% 5 years 6 yearsNet present value: 35619 33990
Detailed calculations:See Appendix A Score: 95
See Appendix A Score: 85
Schedule Feasibility10%
2 - 3 Months Score: 90
1 1/2 - 2 Months Score: 98
Ranking 100% 91.7 90.3
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RecommendationsGiven the information that we have gathered while assessing Howard Brothers’ current systems and possible solutions for the given issues we have identified, we would recommend that Howard Brothers choose the solution that we have distinguished as Candidate 1. We feel that this option will provide them with a proper database structure that will integrate effectively with both the systems already in place. It will also provide a more time efficient process for in-store customer checkout, as well as post-purchase customer relations.
Although we feel that Candidate 2 is also a viable solution for a portion of the issues we have identified, we feel that Candidate 1 will provide a more comprehensive solution. While Candidate 2 will only improve the customer database structure of Howard Brothers, Candidate 1 will improve the customer purchasing process.
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Appendix A
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Appendix BPIECES Framework
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Appendix CCandidate Systems Matrix
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Appendix DFeasibility Matrix
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Appendix ECRM Software Review
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Set of physical DFD *THROW AWAY*
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SET OF PHYSICAL DFDS *THROW AWAY*
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SET OF PHYSICAL DFDS *THROW AWAY*
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NETWORK ARCHITECTURE DIAGARAM THROW AWAY
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PHYSICAL DATABASE SCHEMA THROW AWAY
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DATA DISTRIBUTION / TECHNOLOGY ASSIGNMENT DIAGRAM THROW AWAY
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Data-to-Process Crud Matrix
Entity Attribute
Proc
ess
Cust
omer
In
form
ation
Proc
ess
Item
for
Purc
hase
Proc
ess
Cust
omer
In
form
ation
(Uni
ty)
Proc
ess
Item
for
Purc
hase
(Uni
ty)
Proc
ess
Chec
k O
ut
(Uni
ty)
C Systems CustomerCS Customer ID CRCS Customer Name CRUCS Customer Phone Number CRUCS Customer Email CRUCS Customer Address CRUC Systems PurchaseCS Purchase ID CRCS Purchase Date CRC Systems InventoryCS Inventory ID RCS Inventory Product Name RCS Inventory Product Price RCS Inventory Product Serial Number
R
CS Inventory Date RPurchase TransferPurchase Transfer ID RPurchase Transfer Date RUnity CustomerU Customer ID CR RU Customer Name CRU RU Customer Phone Number CRU RU Customer Email CRU RU Customer Address CRU RU Customer Account Number CR RUnity PurchaseU Purchase ID CR RU Purchase Date CR RUnity InventoryU Inventory ID RU Inventory Product Name RU Inventory Product Price RU Inventory Date R
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Test Data Plan1.0 Introduction
The system test plan will be performed in order to ensure and verify that the quality is to the standard of those in the desired requirements by the client. 1.1 Goals and Objectives
The aim of all testing activities will be to exercise the complete integrated functioning of the system and will include:
• Software functionality• User interface• Hardware integration
2.0 Test Plan
Testing will begin with unit testing to test the separate modules of the system. The systems integration testing will be performed in the store in a sandbox environment through integration testing before performing the final testing stage, validation testing.
3.0 Test Procedure
The system testing will take place on a complete integrated system to verify that there aren’t any bugs present. Once the actual system testing is completed, validation testing will begin to further identify bugs related to the usability the system and ending once the end users have the confidence that the functionality meets their specified requirements after validation.
3.1 Unit Testing
In the unit testing we will be testing the separate modules of the system. We will carry out white box testing to test the individual component and will monitor data that is passed through to find any errors.
3.2 Integration Testing
In this area of testing we will implement the system at the clients store and after running it, will look for any signs of collision between the systems components and any of those from the clients’ side.
3.3 Validation Testing
In this method of testing we will be working with the client to determine whether the system developed to valid in relation to the clients requirements. All of the system components will be tested together in a black box environment. Test data will be entered in and the results will be compared from what we have derived.
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Data Conversion PlanData Conversion Plan
• The most important factor to successful data conversion/migration is careful planning and effective communication of every detail, and step, of the process.
• Inventory the system(s) and supporting components to understand what it is that the project team will be working with as they transition the data.
• Review the data and data types being converted. It’s important to understand information such as:
o The amount, type, and quality of data
o The original and target sources and formats
o Any cross-reference complexities
• Evaluate the experience of the project team to determine their ability to successfully perform the data migration/conversion. It may be necessary to hire additional resources or outsource some, if not all, of the work if the appropriate skill set is not available in-house.
• Identify the criticality of the data. This may impact the approach taken to convert/migrate the data as well as the amount and type of resources required to successfully perform the effort.
• Determine if the most appropriate, low risk, approach is to perform the migration in-house or to outsource the effort or a combination of the two. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages. Some advantages of performing this effort in-house may include control and security of data, schedule and resource flexibility, and possible cost savings. Outsourcing such efforts will cost money but often brings a level of expertise not always available in-house. Outsourcing also allows for internal resources to be allocated towards other efforts and priorities.
• Determine how the data conversion/migration will be performed. Is there a requirement to run parallel system, will there be a onetime cut-over to the new system, archive the old system or keep it running, etc
• Analyze the above information as inputs into the conversion/migration process to help determine costs, schedules, software needs, and any required human intervention.
• Perform a high-level mapping to determine which data elements in the existing system will be converted/migrated to the new system. Decide which data will be transferred, converted, which is redundant, etc.
• Develop business rules that outline how items will be handled. Items such as blank records, new codes, inappropriate entries, etc.
• Develop conversion scripts, as needed. Conversion scripts are used for extracting data from the source, transforming the data as needed, and loading the data into the target.
• Choose the best human and/or software approach to maximize quality and minimize expense.
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• Develop a schedule that maps out exactly how the conversion/migration is expected to happen.
• Create a specification document that maps out exactly how the converted data will look.
• Other planning considerations should include items such as communication, education, data normalization, quality assurance, and validation of data accuracy and completeness.
Performing Data Conversions
• Generate a backup of all data prior to any manipulation or migration. This backup represents the system baseline prior to any human and/or software interaction with the system or system data outside of the normal operating processes. If needed, this backup can be used to restore the system. System backups should be taken incrementally while stepping through the process of preparing, moving, and manipulating data. This is done to allow the project team to revert back to any point throughout the process that they identify as correct if for some reason they run into issues during later steps.
• Extract test data from the legacy system.
• Normalize the test data. Often one of the main goals of performing a data conversion/migration is to combine multiple data sources into one standardized format. This is referred to as normalizing data. Data is often normalized by structuring database tables logically so that they contain
Information related only to the items within that table and then linking/joining tables appropriately in order to build the functionality desired by the database user. This is done to minimize unnecessary redundancy and increase data efficiencies.
• Perform a test conversion of a sample of existing data and make adjustments if necessary.
• Once the project team is confident that the data conversion should go smoothly plan and communicate a date appropriate for the full conversion to take place. It is often most appropriate to perform this during non-business hours, preferably on a Friday evening. This allows a few days of contingency (over the weekend) to resolve any last minute issues or to revert back to the system backup taken just before the conversion/migration began.
• Normalize the system data.
• Initiate the data conversion.
Validating/Evaluating Data Conversions
• Validate/reconcile the converted data for accuracy and completeness. Check items such as:
o Formatting of data elements
o Data completeness
o Data accuracy
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• Resolve any issues that may.
**THROW AWAY Dialogue Chart
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**THROW AWAY Dialogue Chart
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**THROW AWAY Dialogue Chart
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**THROW AWAY Dialogue Chart
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**THROW AWAY Dialogue Chart
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**THROW AWAY Dialogue Chart
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**THROW AWAY Dialogue Chart
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User Manual
Introduction
The purpose of this user manual is to show the employees of Howard Brothers how the prototype that has been developed will work to their advantage and make check out a much smoother process for everyone. This guide will give step by step instructions on how to use the system that will connect C-Systems and Unity.
How to Use the Prototype
The following screen shot shows the home screen that appears when using the connecting system between C-Systems and Unity.
From this screen the employees have the option to see the information contained in C-Systems, the information contained in Unity, and the ability to transfer information between the two.
There are 6 different functions that can be accessed from the home screen. These functions are separated by 3 different headings. Under the C-Systems Navigation heading the employee can either create a “New Customer” or add a “New Purchase” to an existing customer. Under the Unity Heading the employee can either create a “New Customer” or add a “New Purchase” to an existing customer. Under the Purchase Transfer Heading it allows the employee to create a New Transfer between the two systems or view Transfers that have occurred in the past.
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C-Systems Navigation
When the employee selects “New Purchase” in C-Systems it takes them to the screen above where they can select the inventory ID below. This inventory ID is the product that they purchase as seen below.
After selecting inventory ID the employee should select the C-Systems Customer ID to go with what is being purchased.
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After both have been selected, the employee should click create in the upper right hand corner. This will show a green bar that says “Process Created” and return them to the Home Screen. However, if the user has not already been created when a New Purchase has been entered the employee can choose to click “New Customer” and it will take them to the “New Customer” screen.
The second option under C-Systems Navigation is to select “New Customer”. This brings up the screen below and asks for Name, Phone Number, Address, and the optional e-mail address.
After this has been filled out, the employee should click on create in the top right hand corner of the screen. This will take them automatically to the “New Purchase” screen that was shown above.
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Unity Navigation
The next section on the Home Screen is the Unity Navigation section. This Section of the Home screen allows the employee to create a “New Purchase” and a “New Customer” in the Unity System. The following screen shot below shows the screen that would appear when the employee clicked on “New Purchase”. This requires the Unity Inventory ID of a product and a Unity Customer ID.
If the employee clicks on the drop down arrow next to Unity Inventory ID the following screen will appear, allowing them to choose an actual product(ex: Nails -50ct) or C-Systems purchase.
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Purchase Transfer
The image above shows the screen that the employee will be taken to upon clicking “New Transfer”. Click on the arrow next to the box labeled Unity Purchase ID, this will give you a list of customer names, select the correct customer. If the customer does not have a Unity Purchase ID then the employee should click Add Customer to Transfer System.
After the Unity Purchase ID is selected, look to the bottom of the screen with the list of names, products, and their corresponding C-Systems Inventory Product Serial Number. Find the corresponding name with the correct product and click the blue underlined number to the left of it. This will automatically populate the employee’s choice into the box labeled C-Systems Purchase ID. Finally, choose “Create” in the top right hand corner and it will take the user to a list of all created Transfers.
Finally, if the user doesn’t need to create a transfer, but only wants to make sure that one had been created in the past they can click on “View Transfers”. This will take them to a list of all previous transfers that have been done by the system.
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Training PlanI. Introduction
This document sets out the training plan for the new system developed for Howard Brothers.
II. Training Requirements
The general work environment will involve the same number of workstations available at the client’s location. The training audience will be the HR manager, the marketing director and remaining support staff.
III. Training Strategy
Training will take place in a classroom on site at the client’s location in a two hour session where the HR manager, the marketing director and support staff have a simulated interaction with the system, emphasizing questions that might arise. Mentoring will also be provided for a week following the completion of the classroom session.
IV. Training Materials
Training manuals will be sent to all employees one week before the classroom session in order to develop a familiarity with the new system. During the onsite training session an overhead projector will show the instructors interaction with the system, while all employees follow along on individual laptops.
V. Evaluation of the training
Feedback will be asked of all of those who take place in the training session asking whether they found the course useful/enjoyable or not.
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System Conversion PlanThe systems that are currently in place will remain the same. Their structure is maintained by the supplied company and no changes are permitted. We will not be performing any conversion of the current system.
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Support and Maintenance Plan
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Detailed System Methodology Overview and Justification
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