Different Input Specifications in a Design

Output from a system is regarded as the main determinant of the system’s performance, output from the system are affected by the input to the system.

Objective of Input Design

The main objectives, which guide the input design, are briefly discussed as below:

i) Control the volume of input data: Try to reduce data requirement and avoid capturing unnecessary data.
ii) Avoid processing delays data entry: Automating data capturing may reduce this delay.
iii) Avoid data entry errors: Check in the data entry programs, which are called input validation technique, may help.
iv) Keep the process simple: The system should be kept as simple and easy to use as possible.

Input layout

The input layout should contain the following

i) Heading and date of data entry.
ii) Data heading and value
iii) Data type and width of the column
iv) Initials of data entry operator.

Feedback from the user

Having specifically defined sub-systems output and inputs, the designers once again involve the user to get feedback.

Database Design

A database is an orderly arrangement of all the records related to each other. It serves as a data resource for the MIS of an organization. The designer should keep the following points in mind:

i)   Identify all data tables and record types
ii)  Identify fields for each table, the key fields for each table and relations between various tables.
iii) Determine the data type and width for each field of the tables
iv)  Normalize the data tables
v)   Properly document data dictionary

Procedure Design

Procedures are the rules, standards or methods designed to increase the effectiveness of the information system. The procedures detail about the tasks to be performed in using the system. There is a wide variety of procedure, which include:

i)   Data Entry Procedures: These are the methods designed for data entry e.g. data entry sequence.
ii)  Run Time Procedures: The actions to be taken by the users to achieve the intended results.
iii) Error-handling Procedures: These procedures help the user in detecting and correcting errors.
iv)  Software Documenting Procedures: The programmers get instructions on how to document the programs.