Question 1

You are an antique collector who also buys and sells antiques. You would like to create a computerized database to keep track of your extensive collection, some of which are quite old and expensive. You need to have accurate records/documentation in case of theft, fire or other catastrophic loss. In addition you would like to be able to generate a catalog of your collection from the database.

1.a Make and state reasonable assumptions about the needs of this application, and design it accordingly

1.b. Define/describe an applicable database providing a field name, description, data type (alpha, numeric, date, logical, etc.) and size of each field. Note that the Feasibility Study has not been written so it is inappropriate to write/develop a database in response to this question.

1.c List typical reports needed by this business that would be generated from this database and specify their use.

For one of the reports listed, define the report, in terms of selection criteria, sort order, data elements and use of the report.

Question 2

Describe the advantages afforded by a user-friendly, "intelligent", data-entry screen as opposed to the default screen generated by a Database Management System for a particular application.

Question 3

A mathematics professor at a well-known university teaches three classes each semester, with an average of 40 students per class. Much of his/her class preparation time is taken up by preparing (composing) lecture notes, overheads and other supplemental class material. He/she also spends a great deal of time conducting research for the papers he/she has to write (this involves a lot of travel to the library). He/she does not have a computer, but he/she has heard that they can be a real time-saver.

3.a What steps should be taken in the development of a recommendation?

3.b What kinds of hardware and software would you recommend, why would you recommend it?

3.c What other recommendations would you make to our professor?

Question 4

What trends are occurring in the development and use of the major types of computer systems and will the convergence of PDAs, notebooks, PCs, cell phones and all the other HHEDs (Hand Held Electronic Devices) produce an information appliance that will make all of these categories obsolete?

Question 5

How involved should users be in the development of a computer system?

Question 6

Wireless Mobile Devices

6.a What are the major business benefits organizations can realize by providing employees with wireless mobile devices?

6.b What are the hardware, software and other challenges organizations face in providing their employees with wireless mobile devices?

6.c Do the challenges outweigh the benefits you outlined earlier?