Business Modelling

Description:

During 5 days of exciting interaction and practice, Entity (Object) Modelling becomes an effective tool in the delegates repertoire.

The delegates are introduced first to a simple requirement, which they solve intuitively (group discussion modelled on the white board). As the requirement grows in complexity the delegates find themselves able to expand the data model on the white board still using intuition. However it is then demonstrated that the resultant model leads to corrupt data.

This motivates a day spent on formal rules and guidelines which are introduced from first principles and which are assembled into a framework which enables the delegates to produce correct models, even for complex situations.

Three days are then used to practice and hone this skill while producing data models in group, and individual exercises. At the same time the application of these techniques to typical structural problems is examined (bill of material, hierarchies, networks, intersections, optionality, subtypes, ...). Throughout the course there is a strong emphasis on clear thinking and communication, which teaches delegates to say what they are actually thinking (It is surprising that few people can do this well!).

Objectives:

After the course the delegate will be able to:

Represent and communicate the users requirements in the form of data models that are correct, complete and simple.
Here are some examples of the skills acquired (These are not the notations used on the course; the course is about principles not specific notations.):
The skill to recognise when the key does not match the concept.
The skill to recognise when the keys contradict the relationship.
The skill to recognise when the model contradicts with the business.
The skill to recognise when the model could lead to a corrupt database.
The skill to recognise when the business implications of one part of a model contradict those of another part.
Handle some of the dynamics involved in group modelling sessions
Check completeness of the data model by simulating its use to produce screens and reports.
Check completeness and correctness of the data model by verifying its detailed support of each of the business processes (this is done with Use Cases and Scenarios).
Check correct communication by asking critical questions comparing the user requirements and the model (these questions consist of restating business rules in precise data modelling terms)
Effectively interpret the data model when designing, developing or maintaining programs/systems.
Quickly acquire an in depth understanding of any business by representing it with Entity or Object Models (or by studying existing Entity or Object Models).

Topics:

Techniques for thinking and communication about data models
Rules and techniques to obtain correct data models
Practice in modelling (a number of examples are tackled both individually and by group)
Functional Dependencies Normalisation
Key and referential integrity
Business Rules
Crucial role of unique identifier
The Semantics of Models
Subtypes and Supertypes
The availability of more than one correct and complete model for any business situation with the consequent necessity to reach consensus. Criteria for choice between the models.
A program to check the data model (Bernsteins Algorithm)

Audience:

The greatest benefit of the course is the ability to think clearly and precisely in a business framework. The principles used in the 5 days apply equally to all methodologies and notations. Thus the following staff, regardless of environment, would benefit.

Systems Analysts
Business Analysts
Project Leaders
Designers
Data Administrators
User Representatives
Analyst Programmers
Senior Analyst Programmers

It is sometimes thought that this course is for specialists only because it includes Bernsteins techniques. In fact the main emphasis is on the amazingly clear business understanding that can be acquired and communicated by the proper use of Entity (Object) Models. Every business or systems analyst must attend this or an equivalent course to even deserve his or her title!

Prerequisites:

Some analysis experience would be an advantage, however the course serves to bridge the gap quickly for those who have no experience.

All concepts are defined from 1st principles as they are introduced.

5 days

Feedback from Past Attendees

(The original documents containing the feedback are available for inspection)

June, 1994

The course was excellent. Many people who have attended it in the past have expressed how they felt it was THE course of the century. Now I fully agree. It's one of a kind.

August, 2000

Excellent, Very Impressive, Knowledgeable Lecturer. The best `Analysis' course I've attended. Mike is a ground breaking Data Modeller and the best course I've attended as a programmer. He's Great.

October, 1995

Incredible stuff, one of the most powerful techniques that I have ever come across, cannot wait to try it out in a real situation.

June, 2000

Found the total organization of handling each issue, practical, controlled and focused. This eliminates confusion in the student's mind - very effective. Found the enthusiasm of the lecturer wonderful and never got the feeling of just wanting `to get the job done'.

June, 1997

The course exceeded my expectations in terms of its content, presentation style and how well topics were introduced. I feel every self-respecting I.S. professional should at least have basic skills in analysis and should attend this course.

August, 1995

A course well presented by an obvious master in the field. A skillset has been acquired without which anyone in the business community cannot face the future with confidence.

August, 1998

I can't express myself enough in terms of gain, as what I got after attending the Course is more than what I learnt at University. I would recommend that all graduates going into computers should attend.

August, 1997

Extremely knowledgeable on subject, handles the interactions very well, has a manner of putting concepts across in a completely non-intimidating fashion, has taught me a very valuable concept - that of PRECISE thinking.

June, 2000

I thoroughly enjoyed the course and appreciate the time you take to explain concepts that are sometimes hard to understand. It is seldom one has an instructor/course presenter who has such an in-depth knowledge of his/her subject. Thanks Mike.

June, 2005

Great course!!

June, 2005

it is an insightful course and I'll recommend it to others. It will be good for small businesses as well.

June, 2005

Good solid theory to have. It will definitely assist me in my work situation in understanding the customer requirements. I further particularly enjoy how these techniques can assist precise thinking.

Course Schedule

Duration (Days)	Booking Status	Venue
5	If you are interested in attending a course please send us an email. We will return you a schedule of courses and venues for your area, or we will try and arrange a course at a venue of your choice.	South Africa
		United Kingdom





		Australia
		United States

CASE Tools

In planning your training, note that the CASE specific courses offered by the CASE tool vendors generally do not focus on the topics covered by this course because they need the available time to cover the many CASE tool features.

In general, both types of course are required to complete a person's training.

Without an understanding of the principles of Entity (Object) Modelling, the CASE tools could be used to produce `pretty' models, which are incorrect.

In addition to modelling principles, this course also teaches ways to think, and ways to communicate, when modelling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an Introductory Course?

There is no need for an introductory course. This course does not assume any prior knowledge of the subject. All concepts are defined from 1st principles as they are introduced.
People with no computer experience and indeed with no work experience can benefit by attending, provided that they have the patience to concentrate on detail and the ability to absorb new concepts.

Should a course on the CASE tool precede this course?

It actually does not matter which course is attended first.
If the CASE tool course is attended before this course, the delegate will have accumulated questions and concerns, which can be answered on this course.
If this course is attended first, the delegate will understand the CASE tool course to a much greater extent.

Enrol Delegates

GETTING AN ENROLMENT FORM
Click the button on the left. Then select the Business Modelling Course.Remember to select the relevant form for your country.