Evolving information systems: meeting the ever-changing environment

To meet the demands of organizations and their ever-changing environment, information systems are required which are able to evolve to the same extent as organizations do. Such a system has to support changes in all time-and application-dependent aspects. In this paper, requirements and a conceptual framework for evolving information systems are presented. This framework includes an architecture for such systems and a revision of the traditional notion of update. Based on this evolutionary notion of update (recording, correction and forgetting) a state transition-oriented model on three levels of abstraction (event level, recording level, correction level) is introduced. Examples are provided to illustrate the conceptual framework for evolving information systems

A procedure to define the object type structure of a conceptual schema

The most important phase in the design of an information system is, in our opinion, the phase which we have given the name Information Analysis (I.A.). During I.A. a conceptual schema is designed which accurately reflects the deep semantic structure of the information which will eventually be used in the information system. This paper describes part of a methodology which systematizes the design of the conceptual schema, forcing the user to resolve ambiguities and documenting his decisions. The algorithms used in this methodology allow for automatic detection of certain semantic inconsistencies, as well as automatic generation of (parts of) the final conceptual schema based on specifications provided by the user. In this paper, we concentrate on the specification and generation of the object type structure of the conceptual schema

Relational database design using the NIAM Conceptual Schema

In this paper we will describe a fact based Conceptual Schema or Semantic Data Model using elementary sentences as the only information-bearing construct. As natural language concepts are used, the end-user can be intimately involved in the analysis and design of relational database applications. The well-formed Conceptual Schema is input to an algorithm which results in a set of optimal normal form tables. The last part of the paper describes a computerized information system which assists in managing Conceptual Schemas and the generation of optimal normal form tables

Leadership and management strategy. Update 2008.

Skills for Care's leadership and management strategy documents include a main report which covers the state of affairs in leadership and management across the UK sector and makes recommendations for action. The project has also developed a comprehensive set of 'products' to enable managers across the sector to implement the recommendations. These products are commended to all managers and leaders in social care - both adults' and children's services - including service users who are employers under direct payments schemes. Together the products make for a very thorough piece of work that will reward well time spent working through them and applying them to particular settings. Executive summary 1 Why are we doing this? 2 Key features of the original strategy • Overview • Leadership and management continuum • Whole systems model • Improving flexibility and diversity • Planning for transitions • Good practice model • Framework of competences • Personal development plans • Tailored awards or qualifications • Implications of organisation type or size 3 What are the main drivers? 4 Where are we now? 5 Where do we want to be? 6 How will we get there? 7 How will we know when we get there