joeyau1943
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- Joined
- Mar 17, 2005
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Task Outline
Characteristics of Decision Support Systems
The success of most human activities depends on the quality of the decisions. The choosing of a sport for many people can be a long
involved and drawn out procedure based on many factors.
A holiday camp is considering the development of a sports analysis package. This package uses data from the personal details of each
of the students enrolled in the camp. External data relating to environmental factors such as weather patterns and sporting seasons is
also factored into the database.
The package is to be used to help the student decide what sports they would like to participate in.
The management will use the system to ensure that all sports are able to be scheduled while the equipment store will use the system to
predict the amount of equipment that the various sports will require as a result of the number of participants.
Decision support systems (DSS) are information systems that assist users to make a decision by providing information, models and
analysis tools.
You are being employed as a systems analyst to design a sports selection DSS that helps decision-making by providing information
using a model. A model is a representation of some aspect of the real world, and a simulation is the use of that model. The model for this
project will be based on the following table.
Environment Contact/Non-
Contact
Location Sport type Stance Extras Conclusions
Inside Contact Null Ball Sport Null Null Ice Hockey
Inside Contact Null Physical Movement Null Null Martial Arts
Inside Non Contact On a Court Ball Sport Null Null Basketball
Inside Non Contact On a Court Skating Null Team Sport Inline Hockey
Inside Non Contact On a Court Skating Null Physical Movement Artistic Skating
Inside Non Contact In Water Null Null Null Swimming
Inside Non Contact In a Hall Null Null Null Gymnastics
Outside Contact Null Null Null Null Football
Outside Non Contact In Water Null Null Individual Surfing
Outside Non Contact In Water Null Standing Being Towed Water Skiing
Outside Non Contact In Water Null Sitting Null Rowing
Outside Non Contact In Snow Null Null Hands Free Snowboarding
Outside Non Contact In Snow Null Null Using Poles Skiing
Outside Non Contact On Grass Winter Null Null Soccer
Outside Non Contact On Grass Summer Null Null Cricket
Outside Non Contact On Grass Low Energy Null Null Golf
Outside Non Contact On Grass High Energy Null Null Baseball
Outside Non Contact On Sand Null Null Null Volleyball
Outside Non Contact Hard Surface Physical Movement Null Running Athletics
Outside Non Contact Hard Surface Physical Movement Null On Wheels Skateboarding
Outside Non Contact Hard Surface Ball Sport Null Using a Ball/Stick Hockey
Outside Non Contact Hard Surface Ball Sport Null Using a Ball Netball
Outside Non Contact Hard Surface Ball Sport Null Using Ball/Racquet Tennis
Outside Non Contact In Air Null Null Null Skydiving
Components of a Decision Support
A DSS has three broad components;
Data management - is used to collect and organise the data. For this project the option group placed on the form will hold the data
(an input value).
Model management - involves the use of a model to turn data into information. A model describes the relationship between inputs,
outputs and conditions. For this project the macros will manipulate the data using conditional statements.
Dialogue management - allows the user to enter a request in a convenient manner. For this project the interface form exists as
the dialogue management component in allowing the user to both enter information and providing output to the user – the sport
choice.
Classifying Situations
This project is classified as a structured situation. The same output will be obtained given the same inputs. A mathematical model
determines an algorithm that forms the knowledge base.
Structured Situations
All the features of a structured situation are found in this task.
Structured situations have decisions that are automated.
The decision or solution is reached using an algorithm. An algorithm is a series of steps that will solve the problem in a finite time.
In a structured situation, the steps are known and must be followed in a certain sequence.
Structured situations always result in the same solution if the values of the parameters remain the same.
Systems
Organising and Decision Support Systems
Organising is the modification of data by arranging, representing and formatting data. For this project task you are required to build a
DSS that organises its data by constructing a knowledge base.
Constructing a Knowledge Base
A knowledge base is a set of general facts and if-then rules supplied by an expert. If the condition is true, then a certain
deduction is made.
Each if-then rule is combined using the AND operator or the OR operator.
When the AND operator is used, each condition must be true for the deduction to be made. When the OR operator is used,
only one of the conditions must be true for the deduction to be made.
A knowledge base is often constructed using expert system shells (also called shells). Expert system shells are a ready-made
expert system except that they contain no knowledge. When the knowledge is entered, it results in an expert system.
Processing and Decision Support Systems
Processing in DSSs is the manipulation of data by editing it and updating it. This project will include the processing mechanisms of an
inference engine and macros to edit and update data.
Inference Engine
In a DSS the inference engine is the tool used to manipulate data held in the knowledge base. The type of inference engine being
used by this project is forward chaining.
Forward chaining
Forward chaining is an inference strategy in which the user supplies all the data before the question is asked or the
inference is made. It begins with data and works forward to see if any conclusions can be reached. Forward chaining is
often used when there is no clear goal and the system is just attempting to determine all of the conclusions implied by the
data.
Macros
A macro is a series of commands stored in a file that can be executes by pressing a button. Macros allow many operations to be
performed automatically.
Task Components
Project Management
You must develop a project plan that:
Details the time frame by developing a Gantt Chart. You can choose to
detail the subprojects and the time frame for these more detailed tasks.
Identifies participants
Identifies information technology
Identifies data/information
You must demonstrate communication skills necessary for dealing with others
Understanding the Problem
You are required to submit a requirements definition report. This report is required to be
between ½ and 1 page of typed 12 pt text.
The requirements definition report must clearly identify;
The purpose of the DSS
Specify the needs of the directors of the camps in requesting the development of
the DSS.
Translates these needs into objectives. These objectives will be used to measure
the success of the DSS.
Making Decisions
The camp directors have not allocated a budget for the implementation of the DSS. It must
be complete before the 29th of June, 2002. For the package to be feasible the DSS must
cut the administrative hours on sport allocation by camp staff by 2 hours a week. The four
camp staff are paid at $26 per hour and work for 40 hours a week. 4 camps of six week
duration are held each year.
The camp director is prepared to pay the Systems Analyst $80 per hour.
Develop a Feasibility Study of the proposed solution by providing evidence that
shows:
It economically feasible evidenced by a budget.
It technically feasible evidenced by a quote or advertisement showing
specifications
It fits the objectives of the directors of the camp.
It can be implemented in the available time frame (8 weeks)
there are participants who can operate it
The feasibility study is required to be between ½ to 1 page typed 12 pt text.
Designing Solutions
The design specifications for the macros have been provided. The system flowchart for the
Inside branch has been provided to show how the macros interact to make decisions.
As systems analyst you are required to produce the design documents listed below;
A system flowchart for the outside branch.
A decision table for the inside branch.
A decision tree for the outside branch.
Implementing
Build the specified form. On the form there are controls that are not displayed for
user initially.
Build the specified macros. Attach the new macros to the relevant controls so that
the DSS functions as it was designed.
Testing, Evaluating and Maintaining
Test the DSS with live test data such that all possible sports are displayed. No
evidence will be needed however if part of the DSS does not work when submitted,
marks will be lost.
Provide documentation that demonstrates the original objectives of the project have
been achieved.
Produce an operation manual detailing procedures participants follow when using
the new system. The manual will be a maximum of 5 pages including the cover.
Marking Criteria
Criteria
Marks Allocated
Project Management
Criteria 1 - Outcomes 6.2, 7.1
Selects, implements & justifies techniques in project management
20
Understanding the Problem
Criteria 2 – Outcomes 1.1, 1.2, 2.1
Applies, explains and justifies the nature and function of information systems
to a specific practical situation. Analyses and describes a system in terms of
the information processes involved.
20
Making Decisions and Design
Criteria 3 – Outcomes 2.2, 4.1, 6.1
Analyses situations, identifies a need, and develops a solution which
addresses all of the information processes.
20
Implementing
Criteria 4 – Outcome 3.2, 5.1
Justifies the selection and use of appropriate resources and tools to effectively
develop projects.
20
Testing, Evaluating and Maintaining
Criteria 5 – Outcome 7.2
Uses methods to document the development of the project.
20
Total
100
Band Descriptors
Band 6
100% - 81%
Criteria 1 - Implements outstanding management techniques
Criteria 2 - Demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of a specified information
system and the relationships between the components.
Criteria 3 - Demonstrates extensive analysis of a situation to determine a need and
develops an outstanding solution.
Criteria 4 - Comprehensively assesses the implication of, and justifies the selection of
resources and tools to develop a project.
Criteria 5 - Comprehensively documents work.
Band 5
80% - 61%
Criteria 1 - Implements thorough management techniques
Criteria 2 - Demonstrates a thorough understanding of a given information system and
the need for all the components to work together.
Criteria 3 - Demonstrates detailed analysis of a situation to determine a need and
develops a successful solution using a methodical approach.
Criteria 4 - Thoroughly assesses the implication of, and justifies the selection of
appropriate resources and tools to develop a project.
Criteria 5 - Accurately documents work.
Band 4
60% - 41%
Criteria 1 - Implements sound management techniques
Criteria 2 - Clearly explains how all of the components of an information system work
together.
Criteria 3 - Demonstrates sound analysis of a situation to determine a need and
develops a good solution.
Criteria 4 - Selects resources and tools to manage and develop projects with a good
understanding of the implications.
Criteria 5 - Clearly documents work.
Band 3
40% - 21%
Criteria 1 - Comprehends a need and develops a basic solution
Criteria 2 - Describes the purpose of each of the components of a given information
system.
Criteria 3 - Proposes an adequate information system to meet a need.
Criteria 4 - Distinguishes between different resources and tools associated with the
development of a project.
Criteria 5 - Produces a descriptive report of project work.
Band 2
20% - 1%
Criteria 1 - Attempts to understand a need for a given situation and to develop a basic
solution.
Criteria 2 - Identifies the components of an information system for a given context.
Criteria 3 - Suggests a basic information system for a given need.
Criteria 4 - Identifies tools and resources associated with the development of a
project, with limited understanding of the implications.
Criteria 5 - Limited documentation of project work.
Does anyone can help me to see your work about first 3 task components , be cause i have done the macros , but i can't do the task components! And i got no ideas with them! Please help me ! I will pleasure to buy your lunch or dinner if you help me! My e-mail address : joeyau1943@hotmail.com , joeyau1684@hotmail.com
Characteristics of Decision Support Systems
The success of most human activities depends on the quality of the decisions. The choosing of a sport for many people can be a long
involved and drawn out procedure based on many factors.
A holiday camp is considering the development of a sports analysis package. This package uses data from the personal details of each
of the students enrolled in the camp. External data relating to environmental factors such as weather patterns and sporting seasons is
also factored into the database.
The package is to be used to help the student decide what sports they would like to participate in.
The management will use the system to ensure that all sports are able to be scheduled while the equipment store will use the system to
predict the amount of equipment that the various sports will require as a result of the number of participants.
Decision support systems (DSS) are information systems that assist users to make a decision by providing information, models and
analysis tools.
You are being employed as a systems analyst to design a sports selection DSS that helps decision-making by providing information
using a model. A model is a representation of some aspect of the real world, and a simulation is the use of that model. The model for this
project will be based on the following table.
Environment Contact/Non-
Contact
Location Sport type Stance Extras Conclusions
Inside Contact Null Ball Sport Null Null Ice Hockey
Inside Contact Null Physical Movement Null Null Martial Arts
Inside Non Contact On a Court Ball Sport Null Null Basketball
Inside Non Contact On a Court Skating Null Team Sport Inline Hockey
Inside Non Contact On a Court Skating Null Physical Movement Artistic Skating
Inside Non Contact In Water Null Null Null Swimming
Inside Non Contact In a Hall Null Null Null Gymnastics
Outside Contact Null Null Null Null Football
Outside Non Contact In Water Null Null Individual Surfing
Outside Non Contact In Water Null Standing Being Towed Water Skiing
Outside Non Contact In Water Null Sitting Null Rowing
Outside Non Contact In Snow Null Null Hands Free Snowboarding
Outside Non Contact In Snow Null Null Using Poles Skiing
Outside Non Contact On Grass Winter Null Null Soccer
Outside Non Contact On Grass Summer Null Null Cricket
Outside Non Contact On Grass Low Energy Null Null Golf
Outside Non Contact On Grass High Energy Null Null Baseball
Outside Non Contact On Sand Null Null Null Volleyball
Outside Non Contact Hard Surface Physical Movement Null Running Athletics
Outside Non Contact Hard Surface Physical Movement Null On Wheels Skateboarding
Outside Non Contact Hard Surface Ball Sport Null Using a Ball/Stick Hockey
Outside Non Contact Hard Surface Ball Sport Null Using a Ball Netball
Outside Non Contact Hard Surface Ball Sport Null Using Ball/Racquet Tennis
Outside Non Contact In Air Null Null Null Skydiving
Components of a Decision Support
A DSS has three broad components;
Data management - is used to collect and organise the data. For this project the option group placed on the form will hold the data
(an input value).
Model management - involves the use of a model to turn data into information. A model describes the relationship between inputs,
outputs and conditions. For this project the macros will manipulate the data using conditional statements.
Dialogue management - allows the user to enter a request in a convenient manner. For this project the interface form exists as
the dialogue management component in allowing the user to both enter information and providing output to the user – the sport
choice.
Classifying Situations
This project is classified as a structured situation. The same output will be obtained given the same inputs. A mathematical model
determines an algorithm that forms the knowledge base.
Structured Situations
All the features of a structured situation are found in this task.
Structured situations have decisions that are automated.
The decision or solution is reached using an algorithm. An algorithm is a series of steps that will solve the problem in a finite time.
In a structured situation, the steps are known and must be followed in a certain sequence.
Structured situations always result in the same solution if the values of the parameters remain the same.
Systems
Organising and Decision Support Systems
Organising is the modification of data by arranging, representing and formatting data. For this project task you are required to build a
DSS that organises its data by constructing a knowledge base.
Constructing a Knowledge Base
A knowledge base is a set of general facts and if-then rules supplied by an expert. If the condition is true, then a certain
deduction is made.
Each if-then rule is combined using the AND operator or the OR operator.
When the AND operator is used, each condition must be true for the deduction to be made. When the OR operator is used,
only one of the conditions must be true for the deduction to be made.
A knowledge base is often constructed using expert system shells (also called shells). Expert system shells are a ready-made
expert system except that they contain no knowledge. When the knowledge is entered, it results in an expert system.
Processing and Decision Support Systems
Processing in DSSs is the manipulation of data by editing it and updating it. This project will include the processing mechanisms of an
inference engine and macros to edit and update data.
Inference Engine
In a DSS the inference engine is the tool used to manipulate data held in the knowledge base. The type of inference engine being
used by this project is forward chaining.
Forward chaining
Forward chaining is an inference strategy in which the user supplies all the data before the question is asked or the
inference is made. It begins with data and works forward to see if any conclusions can be reached. Forward chaining is
often used when there is no clear goal and the system is just attempting to determine all of the conclusions implied by the
data.
Macros
A macro is a series of commands stored in a file that can be executes by pressing a button. Macros allow many operations to be
performed automatically.
Task Components
Project Management
You must develop a project plan that:
Details the time frame by developing a Gantt Chart. You can choose to
detail the subprojects and the time frame for these more detailed tasks.
Identifies participants
Identifies information technology
Identifies data/information
You must demonstrate communication skills necessary for dealing with others
Understanding the Problem
You are required to submit a requirements definition report. This report is required to be
between ½ and 1 page of typed 12 pt text.
The requirements definition report must clearly identify;
The purpose of the DSS
Specify the needs of the directors of the camps in requesting the development of
the DSS.
Translates these needs into objectives. These objectives will be used to measure
the success of the DSS.
Making Decisions
The camp directors have not allocated a budget for the implementation of the DSS. It must
be complete before the 29th of June, 2002. For the package to be feasible the DSS must
cut the administrative hours on sport allocation by camp staff by 2 hours a week. The four
camp staff are paid at $26 per hour and work for 40 hours a week. 4 camps of six week
duration are held each year.
The camp director is prepared to pay the Systems Analyst $80 per hour.
Develop a Feasibility Study of the proposed solution by providing evidence that
shows:
It economically feasible evidenced by a budget.
It technically feasible evidenced by a quote or advertisement showing
specifications
It fits the objectives of the directors of the camp.
It can be implemented in the available time frame (8 weeks)
there are participants who can operate it
The feasibility study is required to be between ½ to 1 page typed 12 pt text.
Designing Solutions
The design specifications for the macros have been provided. The system flowchart for the
Inside branch has been provided to show how the macros interact to make decisions.
As systems analyst you are required to produce the design documents listed below;
A system flowchart for the outside branch.
A decision table for the inside branch.
A decision tree for the outside branch.
Implementing
Build the specified form. On the form there are controls that are not displayed for
user initially.
Build the specified macros. Attach the new macros to the relevant controls so that
the DSS functions as it was designed.
Testing, Evaluating and Maintaining
Test the DSS with live test data such that all possible sports are displayed. No
evidence will be needed however if part of the DSS does not work when submitted,
marks will be lost.
Provide documentation that demonstrates the original objectives of the project have
been achieved.
Produce an operation manual detailing procedures participants follow when using
the new system. The manual will be a maximum of 5 pages including the cover.
Marking Criteria
Criteria
Marks Allocated
Project Management
Criteria 1 - Outcomes 6.2, 7.1
Selects, implements & justifies techniques in project management
20
Understanding the Problem
Criteria 2 – Outcomes 1.1, 1.2, 2.1
Applies, explains and justifies the nature and function of information systems
to a specific practical situation. Analyses and describes a system in terms of
the information processes involved.
20
Making Decisions and Design
Criteria 3 – Outcomes 2.2, 4.1, 6.1
Analyses situations, identifies a need, and develops a solution which
addresses all of the information processes.
20
Implementing
Criteria 4 – Outcome 3.2, 5.1
Justifies the selection and use of appropriate resources and tools to effectively
develop projects.
20
Testing, Evaluating and Maintaining
Criteria 5 – Outcome 7.2
Uses methods to document the development of the project.
20
Total
100
Band Descriptors
Band 6
100% - 81%
Criteria 1 - Implements outstanding management techniques
Criteria 2 - Demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of a specified information
system and the relationships between the components.
Criteria 3 - Demonstrates extensive analysis of a situation to determine a need and
develops an outstanding solution.
Criteria 4 - Comprehensively assesses the implication of, and justifies the selection of
resources and tools to develop a project.
Criteria 5 - Comprehensively documents work.
Band 5
80% - 61%
Criteria 1 - Implements thorough management techniques
Criteria 2 - Demonstrates a thorough understanding of a given information system and
the need for all the components to work together.
Criteria 3 - Demonstrates detailed analysis of a situation to determine a need and
develops a successful solution using a methodical approach.
Criteria 4 - Thoroughly assesses the implication of, and justifies the selection of
appropriate resources and tools to develop a project.
Criteria 5 - Accurately documents work.
Band 4
60% - 41%
Criteria 1 - Implements sound management techniques
Criteria 2 - Clearly explains how all of the components of an information system work
together.
Criteria 3 - Demonstrates sound analysis of a situation to determine a need and
develops a good solution.
Criteria 4 - Selects resources and tools to manage and develop projects with a good
understanding of the implications.
Criteria 5 - Clearly documents work.
Band 3
40% - 21%
Criteria 1 - Comprehends a need and develops a basic solution
Criteria 2 - Describes the purpose of each of the components of a given information
system.
Criteria 3 - Proposes an adequate information system to meet a need.
Criteria 4 - Distinguishes between different resources and tools associated with the
development of a project.
Criteria 5 - Produces a descriptive report of project work.
Band 2
20% - 1%
Criteria 1 - Attempts to understand a need for a given situation and to develop a basic
solution.
Criteria 2 - Identifies the components of an information system for a given context.
Criteria 3 - Suggests a basic information system for a given need.
Criteria 4 - Identifies tools and resources associated with the development of a
project, with limited understanding of the implications.
Criteria 5 - Limited documentation of project work.
Does anyone can help me to see your work about first 3 task components , be cause i have done the macros , but i can't do the task components! And i got no ideas with them! Please help me ! I will pleasure to buy your lunch or dinner if you help me! My e-mail address : joeyau1943@hotmail.com , joeyau1684@hotmail.com
