Simon Ambler Loosely based on a question from the 2002 examination paper for MC106 Software Engineering and Professional Practice.

A database system to hold patient records and other relevant information.

A central database held at the Trust's HQs.

Holding all records in a central repository is likely to reduce the number of overall number of errors.

Information storage is distributed across HQ and the clinics.

Issue Careworkers with a Pocket PC device.

Pocket PCs are relatively low cost and put the computing power of a PC in a handheld device.

Use the Compaq iPAQ 3660.

Use the Hewlett Packard Journada 680.

Graphical user interface.

Data entry on a pocket PC is fiddly. In particular, handwriting recognition software is difficult to use quickly. The GUI should minimize the amount of input which is done through text boxes, by using menus, icons, checkboxes, etc. wherever possible.

A well designed GUI should provide a quick and easy inteface to the system. However, it will require considerable usuability testing to ensure that this is so.

Electronic forms for Health Surveys.

Software and hardware required to synchronize mobile device against records at HQ.

Software to keep track of items which have been modified.

Only records which have actually been modified since last synchronization should be transfered.

Invoked when two careworkers submit different amendments to the same record.

Pure guess!! Need to know the common sources of errors in the records.

Docking cradles are supplied at each clinic.

Do not expect careworkers to go into the clinic every day but once per week is reasonable.

Use a standard serial link.

A USB link.

Communication between Pocket PC and HQ via a mobile phone.

Careworkers will be able to upload changes from anywhere. To synchronize once per day is reasonable. If the process is easy it might be more often.

Pocket PC connected to mobile phone via an infra-red link.

Pocket PC connected to mobile phone via a suitable data cable.

Pocket PCs with an integral mobile phone.

Such devices are coming on to the market. It may be possible to delay the implementation until a suitable model becomes available. This is a medium risk strategy since waiting may significantly delay the development.

The software running locally on the mobile device cannot be finalized until the exact model is known.

Software for preparing and running Health surveys.

Preparation and distribution of electronic questionnaire forms.

No printing time.

Collection and statistical analysis of results.

No data entry stage at HQ (as there is with paper forms).

Of-the-shelf statistics software.