The module is essentially a practical one delivered via 12 hours of lectures and 24 hours of hands-on computer workshops.
(1:n) (1:25)2

The lectures are used to deliver the academic and technical content of the module. The tutorials will help you put the practical side of analysis, design and construction into its proper context. The tutorials will give you the opportunities to experience group-working activities and develop practical skills needed to use the computer applications required to support systems analysis, design and construction, for example: a CASE tool; a database application; and other applications that may be used in the construction of a business information system.

The module is supported by electronically distributed learning material.

This module will normally run across both study periods.

Part 1 - Feasibility study with supporting systems analysis diagrams (approx 1000 words) - 40% (Learning outcome 1, 2, 3)

Part 2 - Design Specification Portfolio - 20% (Learning outcome 4, 5)

Part 3 - Prototype Database artefact - 40% (Learning outcome 6, 7)

The student will be introduced to the system development life cycle and all its stages (including an introduction to SSADM).
ANALYSIS
Structured systems analysis techniques, for example: Investigation methods; Dataflow analysis; Entity Relationship analysis; and Entity and Event modelling. An appropriate CASE tool is utilised to aid analysis through diagram production. The analysis stage will be completed through the production of a Feasibility Report for an elementary case study.
DESIGN
The student is introduced to elementary design methods and techniques, for example: An introduction to relational data analysis
There is an introduction to relational data analysis that will enable the student to produce efficient and stable data models through, for example: Normalisation; Physical Data Structure (PDS). Process description will be addressed through narrative and graphical definition. The student will also be introduced to concepts of Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) and quality.
CONSTRUCTION
You will study how to use a standard database application. Drawing on your knowledge of other applications, for example word processors and spreadsheets, you will learn how to integrate them with a database application to provide a working solution to a user's needs.

Essential Texts: Mastering Systems Analysis and Design, Hughes M., Macmillan Press, Basingstoke, (2000), ISBN 0-333-69343-4

An appropriate source for learning the database application eg MS Access. This may be a textbook, ebook or web site

None.

1. Course texts
2. A PC computer per student with suitable applications installed, for example: a Relational database, spreadsheet and word processor.
3. An appropriate CASE tool.
4. WWW
5. Library