The purpose of this activity is to create the file structure statements for use in programming (e.g., COBOL copybooks, Data Definition Language statements, etc.). It is performed by Data Base Administration.  

OVERVIEW

This is basically a translation activity. Data Base Administration converts the APDBM into the proper file structure statements to suit a particular program language and file management technique. These structures will be provided to Software Engineering for inclusion in programming.

When the statements are complete, they are executed and corrected if necessary in a test environment. If no production systems are currently using this section of the data base, the new structures can then be implemented in their final form. Actual data is not loaded into the data base until the corresponding ISEM project(s) reach the installation phase.

If the modifications made in this activity affect parts of the data base which are shared by other systems, then the impacted systems must themselves be changed, probably as part of other ISEM projects, before the transition to the new data base is made. Depending on the degree of data independence of the DBMS used and the depth of the physical changes, these modifications can range from nothing at all to major projects.

At the end of this activity, the APDBM design for a system is complete and tested for validity.

PREPARING FOR REVIEW

Data Base Administration assures that all of the Phase 5 activities and materials have been properly completed. A Phase Review Checklist is available for this purpose. A formal Phase 5, "APDBM Design Manual" is then prepared. The manual is reviewed and checked by Quality Assurance prior to distribution to management for review.

The Phase 5 Manual contains the following items:

• Phase Cover Page - including a Table of Contents, along with a distribution/approval list.
• APDBM Files Matrix - as prepared in Activity B.
• APDBM Records Matrix - as prepared in Activity B.
• Data Resource Layouts - as prepared in Activity B.
• ALDBM/APDBM Files Matrix - as prepared in Activity B.
• ALDBM/APDBM Records Matrix - as prepared in Activity B.
• EPDBM/APDBM Files Matrix - as prepared in Activity B.
• EPDBM/APDBM Records Matrix - as prepared in Activity B.
• Phase Review Checklist - specifying acceptance criteria for the deliverables mentioned above.

STEPS IN EXECUTION

1. Data Base Administration prepares the required file structure statements.

2. DBA prepares a formal Phase 5 manual, "APDBM Design Manual."

3. Quality Assurance reviews the "APDBM Design Manual" for consistency. DBA implements changes accordingly.

4. DBA schedules a Phase 5 review meeting with Data Resource Management, Project Management, Software Engineering, and Data Communications Administration. Copies of the "APDBM Design Manual" are distributed to management prior to the review meeting.