The Process
The Custom Database Application Development Process
The key to successful bespoke database development lies in the planning, preparation, and implementation of the project from the outset. Database Development ICE has the necessary knowledge and experience to ensure our clients bespoke database application projects are completed to agreed timescales and written specification.
Whilst each client project is different, a standard process can be applied in most instances containing distinct phases as described below:
Requirements Analysis
It is essential for any successful custom database development project that the requirements are clearly identified and defined at the very outset. We work with our clients and all relevant personnel to ensure all processes and data flows are identified and documented. The results of this analysis from the basis of the database specification and therefore must be signed off by the client before any database design commences.
Database Design
Feeding on from the findings of the Requirements Analysis phase, our database engineers will then design a database schema, including the definitions of both the data dictionary and database model. Once the design is completed, sections of the overall application are broken down into distinct self contained 'modules' with their relevant definitions of inputs, processes and outputs; at which stage they are then allocated to software engineers for development.
Graphical User Interface (GUI) Design:
Bespoke database development applications usually resolve complicated business issues and therefore it is often difficult to visualize the end solution. To overcome this, our graphic designers will provide a number of design options for consideration. This is an interactive process with revisions being made until the client is completely satisfied with how the look and feel of their bespoke database application.
Testing & Debugging:
We ensure all modules of the database application are tested thoroughly in both isolation and also the overall system working to ensure everything works as per the database specification. Once we are satisfied everything has passed our rigorous internal testing processes, we will upload the database system to our test server for clients to begin their own beta testing. Any bugs found during beta testing and also first 3 months of the clients database application going live, are fixed free of charge.
Implementation and Training:
Our database development projects don't end once the developments are completed – we see this as just the start of the ongoing relationship which evolves thereafter. We work with our clients to implement the new database into their live environment as smoothly as possible and also train their staff, where necessary.
Invariably we will also keep a copy of the clients' custom database application on our internal servers to enable us to provide ongoing support and assistance if/when necessary.
