Task+1

 a. With reference to the scenario (identified need and purpose) Assess the advantages and disadvantages on the current non-computer based method of organisation compared to a computer based organisation method. The advantages of using a ** non-computer-based organisation method ** (i.e. paper and files) include, but are not limited to: · __Physical Entity__ Paperwork and files are physical entities and hard copies of the information, which some prefer to electronic copies of forms and reports. It is easier for new players and parents to fill out information on a sheet of paper rather than one person being employed to type all the information in. · __No Concern with Technical Problems__ If there is a technical problem with the computers at the AFL club, it will not affect the player’s forms and information. · __No Need for Staff Training__ Staff training is unnecessary if any of the AFL club managers do not know how to use a computer. Some of the older AFL club managers are already sceptical of using technology to track this information; the non-computer-based organisation method works best for these managers. The disadvantages of using a ** non-computer-based organisation method ** include, but are not limited to: · __Keeping Track of Paperwork__ With all the new players registering, a large amount of paperwork would be generated. Schedules, reports and team information would be needed. Keeping track of large volumes of forms and paperwork can be difficult and also environmentally unsustainable. · __Repetition__ If more than one player is registering to be a part of the local AFL club, multiple forms would be filled out, creating repetition. Each player has their own record on file, creating repetitive information such as addresses, phone numbers, etc.  · __Security__ Paperwork and forms can be easily accessible and changed, especially if pencil is used. If someone were inclined to break into the AFL club, they might steal the forms and personal information of all the players. With hard copies of forms and personal information, virtually anyone can read it and/or alter it if they so intend.
 * 1. ****  Define the Problem  **

The advantages of using a ** computer-based organisation method ** (i.e. a database) include, but are not limited to: · __Controls data redundancy__ The database attempts to eliminate data redundancy by integrating the files, so multiple copies of the data are not stored. This makes it easier for multiple players registering from the same family and for staff when editing file information, as personal information is not duplicated. · __Data Consistency__ If any data is altered or updated, the new information is immediately available to all users with access to the database. If any AFL club manager alters an existing player’s information, it will be changed on the forms, queries and reports. · __Improved Security__ Security may take the form of a username and password to restrict access to the database. Having a username and password only the AFL club managers know on the database means that only authorised people can access the personal information. The disadvantages of using a ** computer based organisation ** method include: · __Size__ A database is an extremely large piece of software which occupies many megabytes of disk space and requires substantial amounts of memory to run efficiently. If the file is too large and is slow to access and alter information, the productivity and ease of the database’s use for the managers and players is jeopardised. · __Technical Problems__ If there are any technical problems, the information in the database will certainly be affected. If the file cannot be accessed due to computer problems, the transition over to a computer-based method for the AFL club may not be positively received. If any information needs to be altered or added, it either needs to be manually input (i.e. pen to paper) or added when the computer is running again.