Miami University

Short Writing Assignment

Mini Case

Why is this assignment important?

In designing computer applications, it is important to see the big picture. How does the small programming assignment you are working on help solve a business problem for the firm as a whole? Mastering software and language skills in isolation does not prepare you to question, investigate and understand the needs of the managers and employees who will use the systems you design. Determining user requirements, identifying data needs and recognizing the underlying processes that companies perform are critical steps in building robust, user friendly, and effective computer information systems.

Goals of the Assignment:

• To engage in deeper thought processes
• To foster methods of discovery
• To learn about real world business applications
• To enhance problem solving skills

Part 1: Team Discussion

Discuss the case below in teams of 2-3 students by looking at the following questions:

• What kind of industry is this firm in?
• What critical tasks must this company perform on a daily in order to be successful? Think of the work they do and what it must be like to work there.
• What data do they need to collect on a daily basis?  Data can come from customers, sales, suppliers, competitors, shipments, etc.
• What reports, printouts or data do they need to keep this firm running? If you had to manage this operation, what would you like to know to make good decisions?
• Which functions/activities they should automate using the computer? Tasks which are repetitive in nature and/or require a lot of data collection are good candidates for automation.
• Which of these activities are common to other kinds businesses and which are unique to this industry?

Part 2: Individual Written Assignment

Prepare a one page, single spaced paper (New Times Roman, 12 font) in response to these questions. Clearly identify the inputs and outputs in as detailed form as possible. These can take the form of lists, while the responses to the other questions should be in essay format.

Mini-Case

Angelina Ferdinand owns and operates Ferdinand's Day Spa. They cater to specialty clients and provide a full range of services. A receptionist greets customers and schedules appointments. Customers can choose from Partial ($100) and Full Makeovers ($175), Hair Styling ($70), Nail Treatments ($40) and Mud Baths ($50).

How will this assignment be evaluated?

• Industry Analysis – valid identification and description of industry
• Functional Analysis – thoroughness in the list of critical tasks and data
• Synthesis – depth of analysis on firm operation, automation and comparison between industries
• Clarity and organization – clear and concise writing and organization of thought