Enhancing Database System Development through

Integrated Fact-Finding Techniques: A Case Study of

Southern Arkansas University

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1 Introduction

Effective database system development requires a deep understanding of an organization’s data

management needs, user requirements, and operational challenges. In this document, we present an
integrated approach to fact-finding, leveraging various techniques to gather comprehensive insights
for the development of Southern Arkansas University’s (SAU) database system. By employing
a combination of document review, interviewing, observation, questionnaires, prototypes, and
additional fact-finding methods, we aim to ensure that the resulting database system meets SAU’s
specific objectives and enhances its operational efficiency.
Furthermore, the integration of fact-finding techniques serves as a cornerstone in mitigating
risks associated with database system development. By thoroughly understanding the requirements
and expectations of stakeholders, we can minimize the likelihood of costly errors and ensure
alignment between the developed system and organizational needs. This proactive approach not
only enhances the success rate of the project but also fosters trust and collaboration among project
stakeholders.

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2 Integration of Fact-Finding Techniques in Database System

Development

The development of SAU’s database system will incorporate a range of fact-finding techniques to
address diverse aspects of requirement gathering, system design, implementation, testing, deploy-
ment, and maintenance.

2.1 Requirement Analysis

Effective requirement analysis lays the foundation for a successful database system. Fact-finding
techniques are essential in this phase to accurately capture the needs and expectations of stakehold-
ers. In addition to the techniques mentioned earlier, the following methods can further enhance the
requirement analysis process:

• Use Case Analysis: Analyzing use cases or scenarios depicting how users interact with the
system can help identify specific functional requirements and system behaviors.

• Prototype Walkthroughs: Walking stakeholders through prototype demonstrations can

elicit feedback on system features, user interface design, and usability, helping refine require-
ments.

• Requirement Workshops: Organizing workshops dedicated to requirement gathering can fa-

cilitate collaborative discussions, requirement prioritization, and consensus-building among
stakeholders.

• Job Shadowing: Shadowing users or stakeholders in their daily tasks related to data man-
agement can provide firsthand insights into their workflows, pain points, and specific require-
ments.

• Stakeholder Surveys: Conducting surveys targeted at specific stakeholder groups can gather
quantitative data on their preferences, priorities, and perceived importance of different system

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 features.

These additional techniques complement traditional methods and can help ensure a thorough and
comprehensive understanding of both functional and non-functional requirements for the database
system.

2.2 System Design

In the system design phase, fact-finding techniques play a crucial role in translating requirements
into a coherent system architecture. In addition to the techniques mentioned earlier, the following
methods can further enhance the system design process:

• Brainstorming Sessions: Organizing brainstorming sessions with stakeholders and devel-

opment team members can generate creative ideas and innovative solutions for system design
challenges.

• Competitive Analysis: Analyzing competitors’ systems or similar existing solutions can

provide insights into best practices, industry standards, and potential areas for differentiation
in system design.

• User Personas: Creating user personas based on demographic data, user interviews, and
behavioral patterns can inform design decisions by representing the needs, goals, and prefer-
ences of different user groups.

• User Story Mapping: Mapping out user stories in a visual format, such as on a whiteboard or
using specialized software, can help prioritize features, identify dependencies, and streamline
the system design process.

These additional techniques complement traditional methods and can contribute to the devel-
opment of a more user-centric and effective system design.

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2.3 Implementation

During implementation, fact-finding techniques aid in ensuring the accurate integration of the
designed system. In addition to the techniques mentioned earlier, the following methods can
further enhance the implementation process:

• User Workshops: Organizing user workshops or hands-on training sessions can provide
stakeholders with practical experience using the system and gather real-time feedback on
usability and functionality.

• Surveys and Feedback Forms: Distributing surveys or feedback forms to end-users during
the implementation phase can help identify issues, preferences, and areas for improvement
in the system’s implementation and deployment.

• Peer Reviews: Conducting peer reviews or code walkthroughs among development team
members can uncover potential issues, ensure adherence to coding standards, and improve
the quality of the implemented system.

• User Acceptance Testing (UAT): Involving end-users in UAT sessions allows them to
validate whether the implemented system meets their requirements and expectations before
final deployment.

These additional techniques facilitate stakeholder engagement, gather diverse perspectives, and
ensure the successful implementation of the database system.

2.4 Testing and Quality Assurance

Testing and quality assurance are critical phases in ensuring the reliability and effectiveness of the
database system. In addition to the techniques mentioned earlier, the following methods can further
enhance the testing and quality assurance process:

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 • User Feedback Sessions: Organizing user feedback sessions where end-users interact with
the system under test can provide valuable insights into usability issues, user experience, and
overall satisfaction with the system.

• Exploratory Testing: Conducting exploratory testing sessions where testers explore the
system without predefined test cases can uncover unexpected behavior, usability issues, and
areas for improvement that may not be captured by traditional testing approaches.

• Security Audits: Performing security audits and penetration testing to assess the system’s
vulnerability to security threats, unauthorized access, and data breaches.

• Performance Profiling: Utilizing performance profiling tools to analyze the system’s perfor-
mance under different load conditions, identify bottlenecks, and optimize resource utilization
for optimal performance.

• Regression Testing: Implementing regression testing to ensure that new changes or updates
to the system do not introduce unintended side effects or regressions in existing functionality.

By incorporating these additional fact-finding techniques into the testing and quality assurance
process, stakeholders can gather more comprehensive insights and ensure the robustness and
reliability of the database system.

2.5 Deployment and Maintenance

Post-deployment, fact-finding techniques continue to play a significant role in ensuring the ongoing
success of the database system. In addition to the techniques mentioned earlier, the following
methods can further enhance the deployment and maintenance process:

• User Training Workshops: Organizing user training workshops to provide hands-on training
and guidance on using the system effectively, addressing common issues, and maximizing
productivity.

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 • User Forums: Establishing online user forums or discussion boards where users can ask
questions, share experiences, and provide feedback on the system, fostering a sense of
community and collaboration.

• Continuous Integration/Delivery: Implementing continuous integration and delivery prac-

tices to automate the deployment process, streamline updates, and ensure the timely delivery
of new features and enhancements.

• Change Management Processes: Implementing robust change management processes to

track and manage changes to the system effectively, ensuring transparency, accountability,
and minimal disruption to users.

• Root Cause Analysis: Conducting root cause analysis on reported issues or incidents to
identify underlying causes, address systemic issues, and prevent recurrence of similar issues
in the future.

By incorporating these additional fact-finding techniques into the deployment and maintenance
process, stakeholders can gather more comprehensive insights and ensure the reliability, usability,
and longevity of the database system.

3 Conclusion

In conclusion, the successful development of SAU’s database system relies heavily on the effective
integration of fact-finding techniques throughout the project lifecycle. By employing a combination
of document review, interviewing, observation, questionnaires, prototypes, and additional methods,
we have been able to gather comprehensive insights into the organization’s needs and requirements.
This holistic approach ensures that the resulting database system not only meets SAU’s current
objectives but also remains adaptable to future changes and challenges.
Moreover, the iterative nature of fact-finding allows for continuous refinement and improvement
of the database system over time. By actively soliciting feedback from stakeholders and incorporat-

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ing it into the development process, we can ensure that the system remains responsive to evolving
user needs and organizational goals. This ongoing collaboration fosters a sense of ownership and
investment in the project, ultimately leading to greater user satisfaction and organizational success.
Moving forward, it is imperative to maintain open lines of communication with stakeholders
and to remain vigilant in monitoring the performance and effectiveness of the database system. By
staying proactive and adaptive, we can ensure that the system continues to serve as a valuable asset
to SAU, supporting its operations and contributing to its long-term growth and success.