Database System for SmallLocal Dvdvideo Shop - Assignment Example

Download file to see previous pages... Multiple sets can be ordered and rentals can be renewed online.
When customers make their first rental, they will be assigned a customer reference number which will identify them, and the details to be linked to this number will be the address and contact details. Failure to return the rental will result in customers being levied a full week's rental at 9.99 every 14 days until the rental is returned.
Marvin would like the system to keep a store of customer details which can be accessed at the push of a button, he wants to be able to retrieve rental and returns information, as well as have a user-friendly interface to log in transactions.
He also wants the system to perform financial calculations, which can be printed and reported on. Most of all, Marvin would like the system to be compatible with his current hardware and software requirements, and the system should also be able to interact with existing spreadsheets. In a nutshell, Marvin is not looking to change his computer or buy new software to meet this requirement.
When a customer seeks to rent out a title, Marvin will access the rentals form of the database which will allow him to enter the customer's membership number, and record the details and cost of the titles required. By doing this, Marvin will be aware of who has what title, for how long, and how much they have paid for it. The required fields will include the following:
Customer Reference Number
Stock Number
Date Out
Date In
Rental Type
Payment Received
Rental Status

Processing

The system will calculate the number of rentals the customer has on their record, as well as any outstanding fines for late returns. This will involve a simple calculation that will performed by running a query on the required customer. The fields for fines will be in a table which will is easy to update.

Output

After all data has been entered, it will be stored in the database, and pre-programmed reports will be able to present this data as information which Marvin can use to manage his stock and the store. The data can also be printed for customers if they want to check their rental history.

Objectives

Make the system simple for the user to operate

The system should be self-explanatory and should not require constant reference to a manual. This means that the system can be used by anyone regardless of their IT skills.

Producing the right outputs

To check that all the reference values are correct so that calculations and reports are valid.

Reduce amount of work for the user

Incorporate the use of list/combo boxes so that the user can select an item without typing it out. The use of list/combo boxes also reduces the margins for error, for instance, two versions of the same product, e.g. Lost - Season II and Lost - Seson II.

Remove as many errors as possible

Automate as many of the processes, so that use is limited to data input, and printing reports.

Hardware and Software Used

Hardware; -
HP Personal Computer with keyboard, ...Download file to see next pagesRead More