This essay/assignment covers Unit 5 - Data Modelling Assignment 1 with all criterias met to achieve the highest grade (Distinction) along with correct structure. Just follow the content step by step to save time and also to reduce complexity. Note: This will support those in achieving distinction i...
Introduction
In this assignment, I am going to be evaluating the fundamentals and basics of the decision-making
process to present how data modelling provides the ability to compare results and establish a
preferred course of action. Furthermore, I will be able to establish a greater understanding of
features and techniques that can be used for data modelling to provide information to aid in the
decision-making process. Consequently, I will be going over each stage of the decision-making
process along with spreadsheet features, evaluating models, implementing alternatives, the
consequences of doing so, justifying the use of them and how they can influence the decision-
making process.
What is data modelling?
Data modelling is the procedure of presenting a visual representation of parts of an information
system or a whole information system to express connections between different data points and
structures to then make calculated and accurate predictions regarding different products or projects.
Different stages of the decisions-making process:
Understanding the scenario
The scenario I am given in this assignment urges me to explore the different ways in which data
models can be used to predict future sales and outcomes of the products. In addition, the company
managers (who do not have a background in IT) have asked me to provide them with a document
explain the numerous ways spreadsheet models can be used for.
Identifying information and sources
In this stage of the decision-making process, I will be going over the different types of information
needed to produce a well working spreadsheet model. When it comes to making a data model you
need to have a stream of information, this information needs to be reliable, and you need to know
where your information comes from as the source. All information used needs to identify properly,
also some of the information required for the data model will be provided in the scenario, so I will be
breaking down the scenario and analysing it for points that can be used to create a successful data
model for example in the scenario I may be able to identify the number of potential customers
and/or the costs that goes into making a new product.
When sourcing information to use in a spreadsheet the information used needs to be up to date so
the data model can be reliable, trustworthy and can used to influence the company in a positive
way. Additionally, the data also needs to be relevant to what you are making a data model on, so
the model doesn’t represent information that you do not want to represent. If the information
provided isn’t relevant it could end up misinforming the managers of the company and resulting in a
loss for the company. When checking if the information is outdated you need to check who has
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provided the information and see how old it is. If you are unaware of the information provider then
you will have to do some research to firstly find out who they are and second check why they made
the information accessible to everyone on the internet.
Additional information
The data model may need additional information that can’t be found in the scenario. The
information can be useful to the data model and can be used by excel. Where the information is
found will be the source. As an example, if I plan a data model and it is based on historical weather
reports by regions in the UK then an internet search for ‘download UK regional weather’ would bring
up the UK Met Office website, which provides a wide choice of downloadable data. In a different
situation regarding product development, I would need to find how much customers would be
willing to spend on the product and what type of advertisement would help in the sale of the
product and would be the best and most effective at this.
When using and finding additional information you need to verify the sources. One of the things you
need to do is record the exact place where you found the information. You may be able to find
paper-based sources. You may also be able to get the information needed from interviews,
questionnaires and other primary sources of information but when questioning people be sure to
make sure that you are asking the right people (if its gender, age group, height) and make sure you
are asking the questions you need answers to and make sure you ask enough people to make it
reliable. When promoting new products market research is used as additional information.
All information sourced need to be trustworthy so the model can be used confidently. Verifying
sources means making sure that the information is useable. to see if the information can be used
you need to check how old the information is and if the source can be trusted.
Recognising the factors affecting the quality of information
the two main factors that affect the quality of information is if the information is relevant and if the
information is up to date. The information used can also be affected by external factors that cannot
be avoided.
The currency of data is another factor that can affect the quality of the information. The currency of
data is how recent the data is. As older data tends to be of less use because it tends to be less
relevant the older the information is compared to data that is up to date. Try stay away from older
data as this type of data has lost its currency and using it may make your data model less useful.
Accuracy of data is how error free the data is and how much detail there is. A good and useful data
model uses accurate data as the less accurate the data is that is used the more errors will be
reflected in the data model.
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Analysing the information
Analysing information is an important skill to have as it can be used in many different jobs. To be
able to analyse the information you need to know how it will be used and processed so in our
situation you need to have a good understanding of excel so you can find the required information
make a data model that can present the information and be useful.
Identifying alternatives
When analysing information will probably produce one of many different solutions. A good thing to
do is to know of different alternatives before suggesting or using a solution. You can approach the
information in a different way to see if you can find a different solution.
Making a decision
After identifying the different solutions and comparing consequences of implementing the different
solutions you should be able to identify the best and worse options and therefore pick the one that
has the best balance of practicality and quality.
Justifying the decision
By understanding the consequences of using the different alternatives you should be able to provide
a good solid and convincing reason for why that is your choice in detail.
Communicating decisions
Communicating is always important, it is necessary for everyone involved in the data modelling
project to be informed of each-others decision using the best version of communication for each
group of people.
Client
The client is the person from the scenario who asked for you to make a data model. They need to be
aware of what is required and be up to date with all decisions made regarding the data model. This
person may not be someone you contact daily but would be someone who you would hold meetings
with to discuss the progress of the data model or someone you would give reports to weekly. A few
good ways to communicate with the client would be to give reports, in person meetings or over the
phone.
Supervisor
The supervisors are people who watch over the progression of creating a data model. They will need
frequent updates regarding how the process is going they will also need to be informed of any
problems that may arise in the future so they can support you in any situations that arise. These
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