21. MyISERN-1.2

This entry continues the MyISERN project from last time.

Updated link (Version 1.2): http://myisern-1-silver.googlecode.com/files/myisern-xml-1.2.1022.zip

For this installment we had to implement a command-line data entry system for the ISERN system, as well as input data that was given to us.

What was difficult about this assignment?
I'd say the biggest difficulty was the sheer amount of things to do in the course of 1-2 weeks. (Use cases, data entry module, data entry, presentation) I started almost immediately on the tasks (almost because of the code review from before), and still felt like there wasn't enough time. Then again, Parkinson's law seems to hold in general.

What problems were encountered in organizing the group and carrying out the work?
I'd say again the problem of in-person sessions were a problem again, due to circumstances beyond our control. Aside from that, splitting data entry was also difficult since many items link to other items.

Were all of the assigned tasks completed? If not, why not?
Yes. Were the completed in a satisfactory manner? That I'm not sure about.

I think this might be a good example for the real world, though, where sometimes we may come across a situation where it is not possible to do everything perfectly, and some compromises may need to be made in order to finish a project.

What will you do differently during the next Milestone to improve the process and the product of your efforts?

I want to say "start earlier" but we did start at a fairly early time anyways. The only thing that comes to mind is the line my professor said, along the lines of "work smarter, not harder". Thus, the solution seems to be to make the process more efficient.