Systems analysis is a process that identifies relationships among different sources of information. For example, within an institution, a person's name may appear in paper forms, database files, correspondence, and reports. Identifying links among these sources greatly enhances an institution's ability to store, retrieve, and report complex information. Links or relationships are documented on process flowcharts and a database is designed that includes data fields, tables, and indexes. This database design is then compared to the current and future requirements of the system and modifications are made as needed. This process is continuous as data are added, modified, and removed from the database design. When the database design is complete, a database is then created and used for retrieval and management of information.
To date, the focus of system development has been on information within DWR and other subunits of the IDNR. Later enhancements will incorporate information and databases from the Survey. Phase I of the project (now complete) included inventory of hardware, software, existing data files, and data systems. Phase II is ongoing and includes tasks associated with implementation of the design developed in response to the needs addressed in Phase I. The implementation of various applications under Phase II will also include training of staff and additional acquisition of hardware and software.
Analyses completed in Phase I immediately identified the need for a CIS. Most data are stored in stand- alone personal computers or transmitted via paper files through manual processes in the field. Problems associated with data sharing were compounded with the administrative reorganization in 1995 and an expansion by DWR to a more comprehensive approach to habitat and wildlife management.
Phase II includes reviews of correspondence, forms, and reports associated with DWR operations and development of a series of flowcharts. Using these flowcharts as a guide to the processes and relationships among data items, a data dictionary has been constructed to create a standard data structure that graphically represents data items and relationships into tables and table interactions. This structure will be used to generate a Standard Query Language (SQL) database. The SQL database will be accessible by staff with an executable file. Users will then have menus to activate data- entry forms and reports based on various wildlife programs and information sources.
A prototype user- access application has been developed and is working with the SQL server. As the project continues to expand, the data dictionary, SQL database, and user- access application will be evaluated and modified. The system will be tested locally and remotely to ensure the CIS integrity. Dial- up access configurations will be addressed with Internet access issues to be explored within a limited scope. Staff will be trained in the use of the system with technical support capabilities. This project will be completed through the coordinated efforts of the Survey, DWR, and the Data Processing Department of IDNR. INHS will be responsible for project coordination and completion.
Jeffrey D. Branham, Lyle W. Wacaser, and Jeffrey D. Brawn, Center for Wildlife Ecology
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