I, and many developers, have a tendency to focus on the features (glitz) we want to show off, and miss many practical functions .. causing endless Enhancements to produce the real solutions. Anyone interested in having custom work done, i.e, Websites, Custom Applications, Training, may be interested in having a Feasibility Study done to determine the Cost/Benefits.
A real world example was an application for a Department chainstore (SVP) that needed a database to replace a spreadsheet for the CFO (who had requested his VP of MIS) to create an application. However, for a variety of legitimate reasons never got done. His main requirement the sample spreadsheet* (report) was attached to the Functional Specifications, but was totally overlooked by the developers? Naturally, it later was produced but not without lots of chaos and embarrassment. Later, the client would thank me .. asking how his 1 basic need got overlooked (stressing his disdain for non-technical sales people being involved and his appreciation for my approach in assessing and defining his needs). Back then, and still true today, many computer projects are years behind schedule and multiples of the original budget! While most projects will be simple, i.e., we customize our applications and/or provide a desktop standalone applications. There may be times where you would like a more comprehensive study done.
Quickbooks is widely used (us too), and is the accounting system of choice. While it’s a database, it’s designed for the bookkeeping and accounting world. Assets and income/expenses are tracked and reported. There is a common, real world problem. That is the need to make adjustments to the database and view information in a non-standard way by others. Our application in class will be to include one application for making adjustments to a Quickbooks database and creating ad hop reports (outside of Quickbooks). The class project will include lots of other practical and useful elements related to developing real world solutions ??????
A main reason for my new business venture is to help clients, students and 3rd party vendors in the real world .. as I have done over my life ??? .. Again
*NOTE: One final note, today virtually all database tools import spreadsheets directly, creating the database and the basic application. Rendering projects to creating the additional functionality required. It also eliminates the manual effort during implementation to load the database. ????
Beginning in March ’17, I begin my online tutorials as a companion for each of my classes. I’m using an application called ScreenFlow, check it out.
All projects should include both an online tutorial for new users, as well as an online user manual (besides the builtin Faqs). This precludes additional training expense and keeps everyone on the same page. Without them, expect problems.
The Process and Result
Shown below is a slideshow, including the process and end results. If you have an interest .. let me know.
