COMP 378 Lecture 1: Comp 378ass1qs1
30 Jun 2018
School
Department
Course
Professor
Question 1 (15 marks)
Answer the following questions (250 words max/question).
a. Explain the concept of program-data independence, and explain how it is achieved in the
database approach.
Program data independence is the process where data description is separated from the
application program where it is being used. In the database approach, the concept of program-
data independence is achieved by storing the data description in a central location called
repository. This feature of the database allows changes to be made to the data separate from the
application program itself while following the limitations.
Briefly contrast and compare the following development approaches: the systems development
life cycle and the prototyping methodology.
SDLC is a process used to development a system through the interaction of database
designers, programmers and other team members of the organization. It involves
specifying, developing, maintaining and replacing the existing information system.
Not necessarily correspondence between the SDLC phase and the database development
steps
find more resources at oneclass.com
find more resources at oneclass.com
Prototyping:
-It is a form of RAD method where a working system is created with the requirements and
revised continusally where changes are required to meet the needs acquired through
interaction between users and the analyst. During the revision of the protype other
requirements of reports and displays are met as they arise. This results in the creation of
a new database which is a blend of a copy of the existing database with new contents
added through research of external data sources. The revision process is ongoing.
Some of the disadvantages include compromise of security and integrity controls as all attention
is towards having the protytpe designed in a timely manner. Additionally, creation of any user
documents is delayed until project completion . Secondly, user training is minimal and usually
self achieved hands on training. Finally the prototype needs to be approved by the developer and
the users before implementation. This user driven can lead Any inefficiencies and inadequacies
to result in the database and system being reprogrammed
Some of the advantages of the process include since it is user-driven the user has complete
control of the process and can customize to their requirements. It also enables the analyst to learn
through modelling the system requirements and customize and address any ongoing issues
find more resources at oneclass.com
find more resources at oneclass.com
Document Summary
Answer the following questions (250 words max/question): explain the concept of program-data independence, and explain how it is achieved in the database approach. Program data independence is the process where data description is separated from the application program where it is being used. In the database approach, the concept of program- data independence is achieved by storing the data description in a central location called repository. This feature of the database allows changes to be made to the data separate from the application program itself while following the limitations. Briefly contrast and compare the following development approaches: the systems development life cycle and the prototyping methodology. Sdlc is a process used to development a system through the interaction of database designers, programmers and other team members of the organization. It involves specifying, developing, maintaining and replacing the existing information system. Not necessarily correspondence between the sdlc phase and the database development steps.
