Software Development Approaches

Software Development Approaches

1. Problem: The current server takes too long to complete and is therefore inefficient. Telephone calls, to determine hire details, is also inefficient as the process takes too long and customers would be impatient whilst waiting for the call to proceed. Also human error can effect the hire details making them false and frustrating for the customer. In terms of number of bikes, each firm operates independently, which is not what management desires and there is no internet access for multi-access pre-booking needs of some potential customers.

Solution: A central server could be generated, otherwise known as some database, in perhaps the main branch of the stores. This could monitor each of the individual stores bike quantity, borrowing details, details of existing customers (if necessary), actual bike on loan. The way bikes could be hired is by some barcode system where the customers details are matched with the bike on loan and the charges are applied electronically to produce no errors.

2a. Financial – The financial feasibility is dependant on the profits the company is generating from the current business and the potential customers with a new, improved system implemented. Businesses must conduct market research to ensure that the initial investment is gained back within a relatively short period of time.

b. Technical – The re-training of staff members makes technological upgrading a poor choice of business growth in some circumstances. The business must ensure that the staff are capable of operating the new system even if this results in higher wages for additional employment skills requirements.

c. Operational – Small enterprise must ask themselves whether this upgrade is operational for long periods of time and with relatively unique data (the boundaries of data points). Also, does the software provide assistance in case of bugs and errors? Is there insurance on the reliability of the software solution?

d. Schedule – Bikes To Go’ must be completely satisfied with the software solution produced. A schedule is not feasible if any one single constraint is violated. By ensuring  a feasible schedule the software solution will meet the needs of the business in the best and most efficient way.

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5. Software Development Approach

An ample software development approach to suit the needs of this business would be the RAD approach. This is because the central database is very simple and quick to establish as well as a simple website layout. The entire project would not cost too much to develop outside the needs of a central hardware unit and the necessary barcode hardware. Other than that the system developed here is easily operational, much like a local library system, which is obviously effective as it has been implemented in most libraries across the state. Also training of staff is simple so long as they can use a standard PC and a scanning tool, if not, many other people can replace them (i.e. anyone qualified to work in a library can work here).