CORE 2: Information systems and Databases

COLLECTING AND DISPLAYING FOR

DATABASE SYSTEMS

Collecting

The information process that gathers data from the environment. It includes knowing what data is required, from where it will come and how it will be gathered.

Displaying

The information process that outputs information from an information system.

How do you think these information processes relate to what we have looked at with Database information systems?

COLLECTING AND DISPLAYING FOR DATABASE SYSTEMS

Within a database ‘Collection’ is predominantly seen in data entry screens (forms) that allow users to populate their databases.

Similarly, ‘Displaying’ is clearly seen as data (or more accurately information) is returned back to the user in a report. Reports, in response to queries, highlight a common theme for both Collection & Displaying in DB systems and that is…

The design for input screens and reports.

COLLECTING AND DISPLAYING FOR DATABASE SYSTEMS

Great data entry screens or forms require minimal user training. The user is able to immediately engage with the form without past experience.

Report design requires an assessment of the nature of the information being presented. For whom and for what purpose?

We wil l look at the fol lowing general principles that should be considered when developing data entry screen and reports.

Consistency of Design Grouping Information Use of white space Judicious use of colour and graphics Legibility of text Data Validation (Screen only) Eff ective Prompts (Screen only)

SCREEN & REPORT DESIGN PRINCIPLES

Consistency of design

Involves being consistent in layout and design so that that view is not confusing. This involves things like consistently labelling and describing data and being consistent with colour scheme. Setting standards to a view helps. As does developing a simple set of rules of operation that apply to the whole view. Proper use of command buttons, check boxes, list boxes etc to input data is also vital.

SCREEN & REPORT DESIGN PRINCIPLES

Grouping Information

Is important as it makes a logical layout to the view and also allows users to recognise certain groups at a glance, e.g. a box containing time and date that the report was made can quickly be recognised. Borders, lines, fonts, colours, page breaks and labels should be used when grouping information.

SCREEN & REPORT DESIGN PRINCIPLES

Use of white space

White space refers to a neutral colour such as white, grey or black that is used to break the view up into sections. It should be a colour that does not attract attention.

SCREEN & REPORT DESIGN PRINCIPLES

Judicious use of colour and graphics

This refers to using colours and graphics to represent information and make it easier to interpret. For example, blue text is used for hyperlinks and red text might be used for something that is dangerous or has a problem, such as an overdue account in a report. Graphic icons such as printer and mail icons etc should convey a simple message quicker than text.

SCREEN & REPORT DESIGN PRINCIPLES

Legibility of text

It is important that all text information is easy to read. Fonts used and how text is justified or aligned influence legibility. Serifs are small fl icks or blobs at the end of characters. They allow the reader to more effi ciently make out the shape of each character. Resolution is important for screens and printing so that text isn't blurry.

SCREEN & REPORT DESIGN PRINCIPLES

Data validation

- Data validation is a check, at the time of data collection, to ensure that data is reasonable and meets certain criteria. For example, when entering the cost of something, data validation would ensure that only numbers and the $ sign are used.

SCREEN & REPORT DESIGN PRINCIPLES

Eff ective prompts –

A prompt is a reminder or cue as to what is required. For example, when a user is asked to enter their mobile phone number, a prompt may appear next to the data box saying "enter mobile phone number here".

SCREEN & REPORT DESIGN PRINCIPLES

Form Design Task…

Create a dummy form in any software that you see fi t (word, publisher, powerpoint, photoshop etc) excluding Microsoft Access. The form is for a new social media platform designed exclusively for 18 – 30 year olds.

The form will be for a new user signing up to the platform for the fi rst time and should include the

above listed elements in its design.

SCREEN & REPORT DESIGN PRINCIPLES