BCA System Analysis & Design Question Paper Solution 2019 , 2020 - 3rd Semester
BCA System Analysis & Design Question Paper Solution 2019 - 3rd Semester
Bachelor in Computer Applications
Course Title: System Analysis & Design
Code No: CACS203
Semester: III
Full Marks: 60
Pass Marks: 24
Time: 3 hours
Candidates are required to answer the questions in their own words as far as possible. Attempt all the questions.
Group A: 1. Circle (O) the correct answer. [10x1 = 10]
i) Which of the following Information systems are aimed at improving the routine business activities on which all organizations depend?
a) Management Information systems
b) Decision support systems
c) Transaction Processing Systems
d) Executive Information
ii) The project life cycle not consists of...
a) Understanding the scope of the project
b) Objectives of the project
c) Formulation and planning various activities
d) Word Processor
iii) Which is the most important feature of spiral model?
a) Quality Management
b) Efficiency Management
c) Risk Management
d) Performance Management
iv) includes the existing system, the proposed system, system flow charts, modular design of the system, print layout charts and data file designs.
a) Feasibility Report
b) Functional Specification Report
c) Design Specification Report
d) Terms of Reference
v) For the best Software model suitable for the project, in which of the phase the developers decide a roadmap for project plan?
a) Software
b) System Analysis
c) Coding
d) Testing
vi) Using the approach, a new system is tested in one part of the organization before being implemented in others.
a) Direct
b) Parallel
c) Phased
d) Pilot
vii) extends the software beyond its original functional requirements.
a) Adaptive maintenance
b) Corrective maintenance
c) Perfective maintenance
d) Perspective maintenance
viii) Which normal form looks at removing partial dependencies?
a) First Normal Form
b) Second Normal Form
c) Third Normal Form
d) Fourth Normal Form
ix) In constructing ER diagrams, double ovals are used to denote
a) Multi-value table
b) Multi-value entity
c) Multi-value attributes
d) Multi-value key
x) Testing beyond normal operational capacity is
a) Performance testing
b) Stress testing
c) Recovery testing
d) None of the above
Group B : Attempt any SIX questions. [6x5 = 30]
2. When would you use agile methodologies? How is it different from the waterfall approach to system development?
The Agile software development model is employed when flexibility and adaptability are paramount in handling rapidly transforming project requirements. Unlike the traditional waterfall approach, which follows a linear progression from planning to delivery, Agile prioritizes iterative development and incremental delivery. Here are some key differences between Agile and the Waterfall model:
Agile:
- Divides the project development lifecycle into sprints.
- Follows an incremental approach.
- Known for its flexibility and ability to accommodate changing requirements.
- Allows for iterative development and testing, with a focus on delivering value to customers early and continuously.
- Testing is performed concurrently with software development.
- Emphasizes a product mindset, where the software evolves based on customer feedback.
- Prefers small, dedicated teams with high coordination and synchronization.
Waterfall:
- Divides the software development process into distinct phases.
- Follows a sequential design process.
- More rigid and structured compared to Agile.
- Completed as a single project with no scope for changing requirements once development begins.
- Testing phase comes after the build phase.
- Focuses solely on project completion rather than evolving to meet customer needs.
3. Why is project management important? Briefly explain the activities performed by the project manager during project execution.
Answer:
Project management is crucial for delivering successful outcomes that drive organizational change and growth. Some reasons highlighting its importance include:
- Establishing clear focus and objectives.
- Realistic project planning.
- Maximizing resource utilization.
- Effective risk management.
- Ensuring project performance and success.
- Quality control.
During project execution, project managers perform various activities such as:
- Execution kick-off.
- Acquire Project team
-Develop Project Team
-Executing The Project Management Plan
-Conducting Status Review Meetings
-Update Project Schedule and Management Plans
-Quality Assurance
-Acceptance of Deliverables
-Complete Executing Phase Review
4. List various methods of interacting with a system. Briefly explain the factors to be considered while designing a form.
Methods of interacting with a system include:
- Command language interaction.
- Form interaction.
- Menu interaction.
- Natural language interaction.
- Object-based interaction.
Factors to consider while designing a form include:
- Suitability for the purpose.
- Ease of use.
- Simplicity of design.
- Size of the form.
- Title and numbering.
- Proper printing.
- Use of suitable paper.
- Ease in punching, scoring, and perforation.
5. What are the deliverables from coding and testing? Briefly explain the different approaches to installation.
Answer:
In coding, the primary deliverable is the code itself, along with documentation. Testing deliverables include test cases, test results, and any bug reports.
Approaches to installation:
- Direct installation: Software is installed directly onto the target system.
- Parallel installation: New system is installed alongside the old one for testing.
- Phased installation: System is installed in phases, gradually replacing the old system.
- Pilot installation: New system is installed in a limited area to test before full deployment.
- Distributed installation: Software components are installed on multiple systems.
6. Why is normalization required? State second normal form and explain it with a proper example.
Answer:
Normalization is a database design technique which organizes tables in a manner that reduces redundancy and dependency of data. It divides larger tables to smaller tables and links them using relationships.
Normalization is the process of removing redundant data from your tables in order to improve storage efficiency, data integrity and scalability. This improvement is balanced against an increase in complexity and potential performance losses from the joining of the normalized tables at query-time. There are two goals of the normalization process: eliminating redundant data (for example, storing the same data in more than one table) and ensuring data dependencies make sense (only storing related data in a table). Both of these are worthy goals as they reduce the amount of space a database consumes and ensure that data is logically stored.
We normalize the relational database management system because of the following reasons:
a.Minimize data redundancy i.e. no unnecessarily duplication of data. b.To make database structure flexible i.e. it should be possible to add new data values and rows without reorganizing the database structure. c.Data should be consistent throughout the database i.e. it should not suffer from following anomalies. d.Insert Anomaly - Due to lack of data i.e., all the data available for insertion such that null values in keys should be avoided. This kind of anomaly can seriously damage a database e.Update Anomaly - It is due to data redundancy i.e. multiple occurrences of same values in a column. This can lead to inefficiency. f.Deletion Anomaly - It leads to loss of data for rows that are not stored elsewhere. It could result in loss of vital data. g.Complex queries required by the user should be easy to handle.
Second Normal Form (2nd NF) In 2nd NF: a. Remove Partial Dependencies. b.Functional Dependency: The value of one attribute in a table is determined entirely by the value of another. c.Partial Dependency: A type of functional dependency where an attribute is functionally dependent on only part of the primary key (primary key must be a composite key). d.Create separate table with the functionally dependent data and the part of the key on which it depends. Tables created at this step will usually contain descriptions of resources.
Definition: A relation is in 2NF if it is in 1NF and every non-key attribute is fully dependent on each candidate key of the relation. Example The following relation is not in Second Normal Form:
In the table above, the order number serves as the primary key. Notice that the customer and total amount are dependent upon the order number - this data is specific to each order. However, the contact person is dependent upon the customer. An alternative way to accomplish this would be to create two tables:
7. Construct an E-R Diagram for a football club that has players, a manager, matches, and grounds.
Answer:
8. Maintenance is an ongoing process. Do you agree? Explain the process of maintaining information systems.
Yes, maintenance is indeed an ongoing process in information systems management. It involves continuing support for end-users, error correction, and software updates over time. The maintenance process typically includes:
- Installing patches and updates for the OS, applications, and security software.
- Reviewing system activity and performance.
- Replacing hardware or devices as needed.
- Providing system administration services.
- Maintaining network and device inventories.
- Ensuring redundancy and fault tolerance.
- Testing contingency plans for backup, restoration, and disaster recovery.
- Monitoring and securing network and system access.
- Updating and maintaining documentation.
This process is essential to keep the system running efficiently, secure, and aligned with organizational goals. It often follows similar phases as the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC), including planning, analysis, design, and implementation.
Group C : Attempt any TWO questions. [2x10 = 20]
9. Develop a context diagram and top level logical DFD for the system made up of the following.
B & B is a mail-order company that distributes CDs, DVDs of music, games, movies, software at discount prices to club members.
When an order processing clerk receives an order form, he or she verifies that the sender is a club member by checking the Member file.
If the sender is not a member, the clerk returns the order along with a membership application form.
If the customer is a member, the clerk verifies the order item data by checking the item file.
Then the clerk enters the order data and saves it to the Daily Order file. The clerk also prints an invoice and shipping list for each order, which are forwarded to the Order Fulfillment Department.
Mail Ordering System: Context Diagram
10. With proper reasoning, explain how CASE Tools aid in information system development? You have been hired as a system analyst in TU tech software Development Company and you are asked to analyze the way system works, What qualities do you need to have to analyze such type of systems?
Computer Aided Software Engineering (CASE) is the systematic application of a set of tools and techniques to a software system with the goal of achieving a superior product in terms of quality, validity, testability, and maintainability while optimizing cost, time, and other relevant resources.
CASE tools play a crucial role in software development by providing automation for various activities throughout the development lifecycle. They aid in improving the qualitative aspects of the target product and support almost all phases of software development. Some of the key ways in which CASE tools aid in information system development include:
a. Streamlining Development Process: CASE tools automate repetitive tasks, such as code generation, documentation, and testing, thereby reducing development time and effort.
b. Improving Collaboration: These tools facilitate collaboration among team members by providing shared repositories, version control, and communication features. This enhances coordination and ensures everyone is working towards the same goals.
c. Enhancing Quality: CASE tools enforce standards and best practices, helping developers adhere to coding guidelines and design principles. This leads to higher-quality software with fewer defects.
d. Supporting Analysis and Design: CASE tools offer modeling capabilities for requirements analysis, system design, and architecture planning. They provide visual representations of complex systems, making it easier to understand and communicate system structure and behavior.
e. Enabling Change Management: With CASE tools, managing changes to the software becomes more systematic. Developers can track modifications, assess their impact, and ensure proper integration into the overall system.
As a system analyst at TU Tech Software Development Company, analyzing the system requires a combination of technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and effective communication. Some essential qualities for analyzing such systems include:
a. Analytical Thinking: The ability to dissect complex systems, identify patterns, and analyze data critically is crucial for understanding system requirements and proposing effective solutions.
b. Domain Knowledge: Understanding the specific domain in which the system operates is essential for grasping user needs, business processes, and industry standards. Domain knowledge helps in contextualizing system requirements and aligning them with organizational goals.
c. Communication Skills: System analysts need to communicate effectively with stakeholders, including clients, end-users, and development teams. Clear communication ensures that requirements are accurately captured, and solutions are aligned with user expectations.
d. Attention to Detail: Analyzing systems involves examining intricate details and identifying potential issues or discrepancies. Attention to detail is necessary for ensuring accuracy and completeness in system documentation and design.
e. Problem-Solving Abilities: System analysts encounter various challenges during the analysis phase, such as conflicting requirements or technical constraints. Strong problem-solving skills enable analysts to devise innovative solutions and overcome obstacles efficiently.
f. Adaptability: Information systems can vary widely in complexity, scope, and technology stack. System analysts must be adaptable and capable of adjusting their approach to suit different project contexts and client requirements.
By leveraging these qualities and applying CASE tools effectively, system analysts can contribute significantly to the success of information system development projects.
11. (a) Why software project often fails? Explain different types of software testing?
Answer:
Software projects often face the risk of failure due to various factors such as cost overruns, scheduling issues, quality concerns, and failure to meet objectives. These failures can have significant implications for companies, leading to financial losses and hindering growth. To mitigate these risks, it's crucial to understand the reasons behind software project failures and the different types of software testing. Reasons for Software Project Failures a. Poor Preparation: Inadequate planning and preparation before initiating the project can lead to failure. b. Inadequate Documentation and Tracking: Lack of proper documentation and tracking mechanisms can result in miscommunication and errors. c. Bad Leadership: Ineffective leadership and management can lead to disorganization and poor decision-making. d. Failure to Define Parameters and Enforce Them: Unclear project parameters and lack of enforcement can result in scope creep and project drift. e. Inexperienced Project Managers: Lack of experience and expertise in project management can hinder successful project completion. f. Inaccurate Cost Estimations: Incorrect estimation of costs can lead to budget overruns and financial strain. g. Communication Issues: Insufficient communication at all levels of management can result in misunderstandings and delays. h. Culture or Ethical Misalignment: Misalignment of organizational culture or ethical values can lead to conflicts and hinder progress. i. Competing Priorities: Conflicting priorities within the organization can divert resources and attention away from the project. j. Disregarding Project Warning Signs: Ignoring warning signs and failing to address issues promptly can escalate problems and lead to failure.
Software testing is a crucial part of the software development life cycle that ensures the quality and functionality of the software. There are many different types of software testing, each focusing on specific aspects of the software.
Here's an overview of some common types: a. Functional Testing: - Verifies if the software functions according to the requirements and specifications. - Examples: - Unit Testing: Individual software units (modules) are tested in isolation. - Integration Testing: Ensures different modules work together seamlessly. - System Testing: Tests the entire system as a whole to meet user needs. - Acceptance Testing: Performed by the client/end-users to ensure the software meets their acceptance criteria. b. Non-Functional Testing: - Doesn't focus on specific functionalities, but rather on overall characteristics. - Examples: - Performance Testing: Measures aspects like speed, responsiveness, and stability under various loads. - Usability Testing: Evaluates how easy and user-friendly the software is. - Security Testing: Identifies vulnerabilities and weaknesses that could be exploited by attackers. - Compatibility Testing: Ensures the software works correctly on different platforms, browsers, or devices. c. Other Testing Types: - Regression Testing: Re-runs previously passed tests after code changes to ensure new features haven't broken existing functionalities. - Smoke Testing: Basic high-level testing conducted before more thorough testing to identify major blockers. - Mutation Testing: Deliberately introduces errors in the code to see if the tests can detect them. - White-Box Testing: Testers have full access to the source code and internal workings of the software. - Black-Box Testing: Testers only interact with the software's user interface and functionalities, without knowledge of the internal code. The type of testing chosen depends on the specific project, its requirements, and the risks involved. Often, a combination of different testing types is used to achieve comprehensive coverage.
11 (b) List of Object-Oriented Analysis and Design (OOAD) . Differentiate between Structured Methodologies and Object-Oriented Methodologies:
Answer: Here are some common Object-Oriented Analysis and Design (OOAD) methodologies: 1. Unified Modeling Language (UML): A general-purpose modeling language used for visualizing and documenting software systems. It provides a set of diagrams like class diagrams, sequence diagrams, and use case diagrams to represent the system's objects, interactions, and behaviors. 2. Object Modeling Group (OMG) Method: A comprehensive methodology that emphasizes iterative development and defines four phases: Object Definition, System Architecture, System Design, and System Implementation. 3. Booch Method: Focuses on object identification, collaboration, and communication. It provides guidelines for creating class hierarchies, relationships, and interactions between objects. 4. Rational Unified Process (RUP): A more heavyweight methodology that incorporates elements of other methodologies like the Booch method and UML. It emphasizes iterative development, risk management, and user involvement. 5. Extreme Programming (XP): A lightweight and agile methodology that emphasizes short iterations, close collaboration between developers and customers, and continuous testing. Differences between Structured Methodologies and Object-Oriented Methodologies: Structured Methodologies: Focus on functions and data decomposition Suitable for simpler, less complex systems Break down the system into smaller, modular functions Data structures are seen as passive entities manipulated by functions Examples: Waterfall model, Spiral model Object-Oriented Methodologies: Focus on objects, their attributes, and behaviors More suitable for complex systems with real-world entities and relationships View the system as a collection of interacting objects Data and functionality are encapsulated within objects More flexible and adaptable to changing requirements Overall, object-oriented methodologies offer a more natural way to model real-world systems by focusing on objects and their relationships. They provide better modularity, reusability, and maintainability for complex software projects.
BCA System Analysis & Design Question Paper Solution 2020 - 3rd Semester
Bachelor in Computer Applications
Course Title: System Analysis & Design
Code No: CACS203
Semester: III
Full Marks: 60
Pass Marks: 24
Time: 3 hours
Candidates are required to answer the questions in their own words as far as possible. Attempt all the questions.
Group A: 1. Circle (O) the correct answer. [10x1 = 10]
a) Management information system
b) Decision support system
c) Transaction processing system
d) Management support system
ii. Which of the following is a true statement regarding data flows?
a) A data flow may have multiple directions between symbols
b) A data flow to a data store means retrieve or use
c) A data flow from a data store means update
d) A join of a data flow means that exactly the same data comes from any of two or more different processes, data stores, or sources/sinks to common locations.
iii. Actual programming of software code is done during the _____ step in the SDLC.
a) Maintenance and Evaluation
b) Design
c) Analysis
d) Development and Documentation
iv. Potential development projects can be identified by _____.
a)steering committee
b)top management
c) senior is manager
d) all of the above
v. A cost associated with an information system that cannot be easily measured in terms of dollars or with certainty refers to.
a) Economic cost
b) Tangible cost
c) Intangible cost
d) One-time cost
vi. The impertinence characteristic of a good system analyst is represented by which of the following statements?
a) You must challenge yourself to look at the organization in new ways.
b) Every fact must fit with every other fact.
c) Assume anything is possible and eliminate the infeasible.
d) You should question everything.
vii. An E-R model with attributes is prepared during _____.
a) Design
b) Project identification and selection
c) Analysis
d) Project initiation and planning
viii. Documentation is prepared _____.
a) At every stage
b) At system design
c) At system analysis
d) At system development
ix. Sequential organization _____.
a) Means storing records in contiguous blocks according to a key.
b) Stores records sequentially but uses an index to locate records.
c) Uses an index for each key type.
d) Has records placed randomly throughout the file.
x. Acceptance testing is _____.
a) Running the system with live data by the actual user.
b) Making sure that the new programs do, in fact, process certain transactions according to specification.
c) Checking the logic of one or more programs in the candidate system.
d) Testing changes made in an existing or a new program.
Group B : Attempt any SIX questions. [6x5=30]
2. What is a system? What are the phases of SDLC? Explain briefly. [1+4]
Answer:
A system is a collection of components (i.e., subsystems) that work together to realize some objective. For example, the library system contains librarians, books, and periodicals as components to provide knowledge for its members.
The Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) is the application of standard business practices to building software applications. It typically consists of several phases:
a. Planning: In this phase, project leaders evaluate the terms of the project, calculate costs, create timetables, establish the project team and leadership structure, and gather feedback from stakeholders to define the scope and purpose of the application.
b. Requirements: This phase involves defining what the application is supposed to do and its requirements, including resources needed for the project.
c. Design and Prototyping: The design phase models how the software application will work, including aspects such as architecture, user interface, platforms, programming, communications, and security. Prototyping may also occur in this phase to demonstrate basic ideas and gather feedback.
d. Software Development: This phase involves the actual writing of the program, which may be done by a single developer or multiple teams. Access control or source code management applications may be used to track changes and ensure compatibility between different team projects.
e. Documentation: Documentation is crucial for explaining instructions and explanations to developers and users, whether formal (user guides) or informal (comments in the source code).
f. Testing: Testing ensures that the application functions correctly and seamlessly. It involves automated testing, performance testing, and ensuring that different parts of the application work together smoothly.
g. Deployment: In this phase, the application is made available to users, which may involve automation or complex integration with other systems.
h. Operations and Maintenance: Even after deployment, the application requires ongoing maintenance and support to address bugs and errors discovered by users, ensuring smooth operation.
3. What do you mean by planning? Write the process of planning for Information System Development Project. [1+4]
Answer:
Planning in the context of software development refers to the organized management of a project to ensure its successful completion. It encompasses activities and resources needed to complete the project within a defined timeline.
The process of planning for an Information System Development Project includes:
a. Identifying Potential Development Projects: Organizations identify potential projects through various methods, such as top management decisions, steering committees, user departments,
or the IS development group. This involves assessing strategic focus, cross-functional relevance, or tactical needs.
b. Classifying and Ranking Projects: Projects are evaluated based on predefined criteria, which may vary depending on organizational size and structure. Criteria may include strategic alignment, resource availability, current business conditions, and perspectives of decision-makers. Value chain analysis is a commonly used method for assessing projects.
c. Selecting IS Development Projects: The final step involves selecting projects based on their alignment with business objectives, availability of resources, evaluation criteria, and decision-makers' perspectives. Projects may be accepted, rejected, conditionally accepted pending resource availability, or returned for modifications and resubmission.
4. Define process modeling. Explain DFD with an example. [1+4]
Answer:
Process modeling involves graphically representing the processes, or actions, that capture, manipulate, store, and distribute data between a system and its environment and among components within a system. A common form of a process model is a data-flow diagram (DFD).
Data-flow diagram (DFD) A data flow diagram shows the way information flows through a process or system. It includes data inputs and outputs, data stores, and the various sub- processes the data moves through. DFDs are built using standardized symbols and notation to describe various entities and their relationships. Data flow diagrams visually represent systems and processes that would be hard to describe in just words. You can use these diagrams to map out an existing system and make it better or to plan out a new system for implementation. Visualizing each element makes it easy to identify inefficiencies and produce the best possible system. DFD use a number of symbols to represent system. Most data flow modeling methods use 4 kinds of symbols to represent 4 kinds of system components: processes, data stores and external entities.
5.List and explain the skills and responsibilities of project manager. [2.5+2.5]
Answer:
Skills and Responsibilities of a Project Manager
Skills:
a. Organizational Culture: Understanding and navigating the organizational culture to facilitate project success and team collaboration.
b. Career Development: Supporting team members' career growth and professional development within the project context.
c. Strategic Thinking: Developing long-term project strategies aligned with organizational goals and objectives.
d. Change Management: Managing and mitigating resistance to change within the project team and stakeholders.
e. Stakeholder Management: Identifying, engaging, and managing stakeholders to ensure project success and alignment with their needs.
f. Business Writing: Communicating effectively through written documents such as project charters, reports, and proposals.
g. Project Charter: Creating a comprehensive project charter outlining project objectives, scope, deliverables, and stakeholders.
h. Project Planning: Developing detailed project plans encompassing activities, schedules, resource allocation, and risk management strategies.
i. Risk Management: Identifying, assessing, and mitigating project risks to minimize their impact on project outcomes.
j. Task Estimation: Estimating project parameters such as size, cost, duration, and effort accurately to facilitate resource planning and scheduling.
k. Procurement: Managing the procurement process for necessary resources, services, and materials required for project execution.
A software project manager plays a pivotal role in ensuring the successful completion of software projects by undertaking various responsibilities:
a. Project Planning: Initiating project planning activities immediately after the feasibility study phase, including estimation of project parameters, scheduling, staffing, and risk management.
b. Cost Estimation: Estimating the total expenses required to develop the software product.
c. Time Estimation: Determining the total time needed to complete the project.
d. Effort Estimation: Estimating the effort required to complete the project.
e. Scheduling: Creating schedules for manpower and resource allocation based on project estimations.
f. Staffing: Developing team structures and staffing plans to ensure the availability of skilled resources for project execution.
g. Risk Management: Identifying potential risks, analyzing their potential impact, and developing risk reduction plans to mitigate their effects on project progress.
h. Miscellaneous Plans: Developing additional plans such as quality assurance plans and configuration management plans to ensure project quality and consistency.
i. Monitoring and Control: Monitoring project progress and performance against the established plans, identifying deviations, and implementing corrective actions as needed to keep the project on track.
j. Communication: Facilitating effective communication among team members, stakeholders, and other project participants to ensure clarity and alignment of project goals and objectives.
k. Documentation: Maintaining comprehensive project documentation, including project plans, progress reports, meeting minutes, and change requests, to ensure accountability and transparency throughout the project lifecycle.
6. Explain the guidelines to design an interface and dialogue box for an e-commerce system. [5]
Answer:
Designing interfaces and dialogue boxes for an e-commerce system requires following user-focused guidelines and iterative prototyping methodologies:
- Understanding User Needs: Gather information about user preferences, behaviors, and expectations.
- Prototyping and Usability Testing: Create prototypes of the interface and dialogue boxes to assess usability and gather feedback for refinements.
- Consistency: Maintain consistency in design elements, layout, and navigation throughout the interface to enhance user experience.
- Clarity and Simplicity: Keep the interface and dialogue boxes clear, simple, and intuitive to minimize user confusion and errors.
- Efficiency: Design interfaces and dialogue boxes to facilitate efficient navigation, information retrieval, and task completion for users.
7. Differentiate between system and user documentation with their applications. [5]
Answer:
System Documentation:
- Purpose: System documentation serves as technical specifications for the Information System (IS) and outlines its objectives.
- Audience: Users, managers, and IS owners require system documentation for understanding the technical aspects of the IS.
- Content: Includes descriptions of each program within the IS, system functions, implementation methods, data dictionary entries, data flow diagrams, object models, screen layouts, and source documents.
- Preparation: Most system documentation is prepared during the system analysis and design phases.
User Documentation:
- Purpose: User documentation aims to guide end-users on how to interact with and utilize the system effectively.
- Audience: End-users who will interact with the system require user documentation for understanding system functionalities and features.
- Content: Includes user manuals, guides, tutorials, and help documentation detailing system functionalities, navigation, troubleshooting steps, and best practices.
- Preparation: User documentation is typically prepared during the system implementation and deployment phases.
8. Define software testing. Explain software quality assurance activities. [1+4]
Answer:
Software Testing:
Software testing is the process of evaluating and verifying that a software product or application meets its specified requirements and functions correctly. It involves the execution of software components or systems under specific conditions to identify defects, errors, or gaps in functionality. The goal of software testing is to ensure the quality, reliability, and usability of the software, thereby preventing defects, reducing development costs, and improving user satisfaction.
Software Quality Assurance (SQA) Activities:
Software Quality Assurance (SQA) is a set of systematic activities implemented throughout the software development process to ensure that quality standards are met. SQA focuses on improving the processes used to develop software and aims to identify and prevent defects before they impact the final product. Here are some key activities involved in SQA:
1. SQA Management Plan: Develop a plan outlining how SQA activities will be carried out throughout the project. This plan defines the processes, procedures, and standards to be followed, as well as the roles and responsibilities of the SQA team members. It also assesses the skills and resources needed for effective SQA implementation.
2. Set Checkpoints: Define checkpoints or milestones at various stages of the software development lifecycle to evaluate the performance of the project. These checkpoints help monitor progress, identify potential issues or deviations from the plan, and take corrective actions as needed to ensure quality standards are met.
3. Multiple Testing Strategies: Implement multiple testing approaches to cover different aspects of the software, such as functional testing, performance testing, security testing, and usability testing. By employing a variety of testing techniques, SQA teams can identify a wider range of defects and ensure comprehensive test coverage.
4. Measure Change Impact: Assess the impact of changes made during the software development process, such as bug fixes or enhancements, on the overall project. Changes may introduce new defects or affect the stability of the software, so it's essential to measure their impact and ensure they are compatible with the project as a whole.
5. Manage Good Relations: Foster positive relationships and effective communication among all teams involved in the software development process, including developers, testers, project managers, and stakeholders. Collaboration and cooperation among teams are crucial for successful project outcomes, and any conflicts or misunderstandings should be addressed promptly to avoid disruptions to the project timeline or quality.
Group C : Attempt any TWO questions. [2x10=20]
9. What are the major differences between Agile methodologies and waterfall model? Why should you use agile methodologies? Explain. [5+5]
Answer:
Major Differences between Agile Methodologies and Waterfall Model:
a. Approach:
- Agile: Iterative and incremental approach where requirements and solutions evolve through collaboration between cross-functional teams.
- Waterfall: Sequential approach with distinct phases (requirements, design, implementation, testing, deployment) where each phase must be completed before the next one begins.
b. Flexibility:
- Agile: Embraces changes in requirements even late in the development process.
- Waterfall: Changes in requirements are difficult and costly to accommodate once the project moves past the requirements phase.
c. Feedback Loop:
- Agile: Regular feedback loops through iterations and continuous integration allow for early detection and resolution of issues.
- Waterfall: Feedback is typically gathered late in the process during testing, which may lead to discovery of major issues at a late stage.
d. Delivery Time:
- Agile: Releases small increments of working software at regular intervals, allowing for early and continuous delivery of value.
- Waterfall: Deliverables are provided at the end of the project timeline, which may result in longer wait times for stakeholders to see tangible results.
e. Risk Management:
- Agile: Risks are managed iteratively, with the ability to identify and address issues early in the process.
- Waterfall: Risks are addressed at specific stages, and failure to identify risks early may lead to significant challenges later in the project.
Reasons for Choosing Agile Methodologies:
a. Reduces Technical Debt: Agile facilitates regular maintenance tasks and defect resolution, minimizing the accumulation of technical debt.
b. Easily and Quickly Adapt to Change: Agile encourages and accommodates changes in requirements, enabling teams to respond quickly to customer needs.
c. Total Alignment and Transparency: Agile fosters collaboration and involvement among team members, resulting in alignment with customer needs and transparency throughout the process.
d. Minimizes Risk: Agile's iterative approach allows for early identification and mitigation of risks, reducing uncertainty and ensuring that the project stays on track.
e. Higher Quality Product: Agile's focus on continuous testing and integration results in a higher quality product with fewer defects.
f. Predictable Delivery Dates: Agile's time-boxed sprints enable more accurate prediction of release dates, providing stakeholders with a predictable delivery schedule.
g. Better Stakeholder Engagement: Agile promotes active participation of stakeholders throughout the process, leading to better alignment of the product with customer expectations.
h. User-Focused Testing: Agile emphasizes delivering value to the customer through user stories, ensuring that the product meets user needs effectively.
i. Greater Customer Satisfaction: Agile's iterative delivery of working software and frequent releases contribute to higher levels of customer satisfaction.
j. Better Project Control: Agile's collaborative approach and regular planning meetings enable better project control, minimizing surprises and ensuring that the team stays on track.
In summary, Agile methodologies offer numerous benefits, including flexibility, adaptability to change, improved stakeholder engagement, and higher quality deliverables, making it a preferred choice for many software development projects.
10. How can you transform ER Diagram into relation? Explain with your own suitable example. [10]
Transforming ER Diagram into Relations
Answer:
After designing the ER diagram of system, we need to convert it to Relational models which can directly be implemented by any RDBMS lik Oracle, MySQL.etc.
To reduce given ER diagram into table simply we create a table for each entity set and for each relationship sets. And that assigned the name of the corresponding entity set or relationship set as table name. Generally the number of attribute of an entity set or relationship set equal to the degree of a corresponding table (fields of a table). To reduce given ER diagram into tables normally we divide ER diagram into following sections:
a.Mapping entity sets to ER
b.Mapping Relation sets to ER
c.Mapping of multivalve attributes to ER
d.Mapping composite attributes to ER
e.Mapping of N-ary relationship types to ER
Mapping Entity Sets to ER
For each strong entity type E in the ER schema, simply, mapped to a relation in a an entity set is straightforward way: Each simple attribute of t the entity set becomes an attribute (column) of the table and primary key of the entity set becomes primary key of the relation.
A weak entity set does not have its own primary key and always participates in one-to-many relationship with owner entity set and has total participation. For a weak entity set create a relation that contains all simple attributes (or simple components of composite attributes). In addition, relation for weak entity set contains primary key of the owner entity set as foreign key and its primary key is formed by combining partial key (discriminator) and primary key of the owner entity set.
Example: Let's take a weak entity set Dependents as shown in ER diagram below,
Here to draw table of weak entity set 'Dependents' we simply set all their attributes ie. Did, spouse, Parents, children and also set primary key of Employee table to the Dependents table as below,
Mapping Relation sets to ER
For mapping binary one to one relationship to relational model we simply set foreign key attribute to any one of the table. For mapping binary one to many relationship to relational model, we simply set foreign key attribute to the table of many side entity. Similarly, for mapping binary many to many relationship to relational model we construct a third table that contains the foreign key attribute of both tables.
Example:
Here we create a new table Enrolled that contains the primary keys of entities student and course entities as below:
Let's take an example that handle all of the cases:
The relational schema for the ER Diagram is given below as: Company (CompanyID, name, address)
Given the following relational schema for the ER Diagram:
- Company (CompanyID, name, address)
- Staff(StaffID, dob, address, WifeID)
- Child(ChildID, name, StaffID)
- Wife (WifeID, name)
- Phone(PhoneID, phoneNumber, StaffID)
- Task (TaskID, description)
- Work(WorkID, CompanyID, StaffID, since)
- Perform(PerformID, StaffID, TaskID)
This schema represents the transformation of the ER diagram into relational tables. Each table corresponds to an entity set or relationship set in the ER diagram, with attributes mapped accordingly.
11. Why is the project management important? Describe the concept of integrated CASE tools with its applications. [3+7]
Answer:
Project management holds significant importance for several reasons:
a. Strategic Alignment: Project management ensures that project deliverables align with the strategic goals of the organization, delivering real value against business opportunities.
b. Leadership: Project management provides leadership and direction to projects, guiding teams towards achieving project goals effectively.
c. Clear Focus & Objectives: Project management establishes clear objectives and plans, ensuring proper execution of strategic goals.
d. Realistic Project Planning: Project management ensures realistic planning of scope, schedule, and budget, setting proper expectations for stakeholders.
e. Quality Control: Project management ensures that project deliverables consistently meet quality standards.
f. Risk Management: Project management identifies, assesses, and mitigates risks to prevent them from impacting project success.
g. Orderly Process: Project management ensures the right processes are followed at the right time by the right people, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness throughout the project lifecycle.
h. Continuous Oversight: Project management involves continuous tracking and monitoring of project progress to ensure timely reporting and corrective actions.
i. Subject Matter Expertise: Project management ensures that individuals with the necessary skills and expertise are involved in project execution.
j. Managing and Learning from Success and Failure: Project management learns from both successes and failures to improve future project outcomes, fostering continuous improvement.
Integrated CASE Tools and Applications
CASE (Computer-Aided Software Engineering) tools support various phases of database development. There are three types of CASE tools: upper-CASE, lower-CASE, and integrated CASE tools:
a. Upper-CASE Tools: These tools support database planning and design, including data collection, analysis, and data model generation.
b. Lower-CASE Tools: Lower-CASE tools support database implementation tasks such as data conversion, report generation, application code generation, and testing.
c. Integrated CASE Tools: Integrated CASE tools provide comprehensive support for all phases of database development, combining functionalities of both upper-CASE and lower-CASE tools into a unified platform.
Integrated CASE tools use a common repository to store design documents and project artifacts, enabling seamless sharing of information across different development activities. This integrated approach ensures consistency and accuracy in design documents, facilitating better collaboration among development teams. Additionally, any changes made to the design documents are reflected consistently across all aspects of the project, streamlining the development process and reducing the risk of errors or discrepancies.
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