Our
system designers are highly skilled in techniques
such as;
Systems Analysis &
Design - The main method used is known
as 'entity-relationship' modelling, whereby information
is logically decomposed and then re-grouped and
linked in diagrams and catalogues. This information
can be used to generate information stores, typically
databases accessed via internet-based applications.
Prototyping
& Rapid Application Development (RAD)
– We use modern development tools to allow
applications to be quickly 'sketched' and refined,
so that working prototypes can be quickly built
to confirm the data models are accurate and meet
the client's requirements. Tools such as Macromedia
Dreamweaver, Microsoft Access and Visual Studio
are commonly used, although any others could be
substituted. Library & object based frameworks
using VBScript, Java, Javascript and databases
such as Access and SQL Server 2000.
Usability
Usability
testing & feedback - The end users
should and must be involved at every possible
step in the analysis, design and development cycle.
Foxford Services uses a task-based approach to
measuring the performance of a particular aspect
of the user interface, for example; exactly how
much time is taken to place an order? How many
seconds could be saved if the process was reduced
from 5 steps to 2 steps?
B2B
Business-to-Business
- XML (Extensible Mark up Language) The smooth flow
of information should not be dependant on which
formats you are running on your pc or server. With
the advent of XML-based messaging and communication,
doing business over the web can be more flexible
and adaptable.
