Term Project Post

TOPIC:

The topic I chose for the AE510 Term Project is “Databases in the Design World” concept. For this topic, I will have two deliverables: a Microsoft Access database and a comprehensive report.

DELIVERABLES:

The database will be designed specific to being valuable to an A/E/C design firm. It will encompass a two-step process. The first step will be to make the following determinations:     

• users
• who maintains and inputs data
• how it will be accessed and who has access to it
• how to keep it secure
• type of database
• what information is to be recorded and maintained
• will there be links to files

The second step will be the actual creation, design, and coding of the database, using Access and providing the following criteria:

• drawing name
•  drawing number
• discipline
• date of drawing
• date last edited/accessed
• project name
• project number
• checked by
• logged by
• link to file

These criteria are essential to data management, organization, and ease of access for engineers and designers. In order to maximize ease of access, I will also code queries that will create a Google-type search screen for users.

The report will accompany the database in an analysis fashion. I will include the following topics in the report:

• the significance of using databases in the design world
• how databases keep data organized and easily accessible for engineers
• how databases impact design, if at all
• what types of drawings are important to keep stored in databases
• how electronic file storage is better than paper storage for benefits of increasing usable office space, decreasing maintain time, and decreasing environmental impact
• document my expectations, experiences during process, and lessons learned after completion (accomplished by keeping a daily work log)

This report provides a comprehensive look at the various benefits of databases in the design world and how they are becoming essential, rather than just simply a convenience.

WHY I CHOSE THIS TOPIC:

I chose this topic for a few reasons. The first being gaining further experience in Access and knowledge of data management systems (DMS) will be valuable as I exit Drexel and enter the design world. I also find the databases in the design world concept very interesting. I have seen first hand how important effective organization and data management is in the workplace. Poor organization leads to mistakes, inaccuracies, and wasted future costs. During my time at AZ, I was responsible for cleaning up and creating the DMS into brand new, efficient databases that housed over 16,000 drawing files and over 100 master drawing PDF files. Being able to work on this project and implementing it as an office standard was a great experience and I got to see both sides, one unorganized and the other a well organized machine.

AWARENESS OF OTHER STUDENTS’ POSTS:

I also chose this project because I saw a great opportunity to learn new material. Additionally, after reading through the blogs this week, I’ve noticed that a very large majority of the class has chosen projects about 3D printing or BIM topics. I wanted to take this opportunity to do something different and expand on my knowledge base of Access and databases in the design world.

RELATION TO IB CONCEPT:

I strongly feel that this topic relates to IB in many ways. Many of our topics thus far have been about BIM. Most BIM software are simply large databases. Soon, we will advance to discussing databases and their importance to design, efficiency, and saving money for maintenance projects. Proper data management is something that belongs in most fields, but it is especially important for A/E/C firms.

CHALLENGES:

I expect to face some challenges during the progress of this project. These mostly are inherent from the actual design and creation of the Access database. The coding can sometimes be detailed and challenging, especially when taking on the search queries. However, these challenges are to be expected and can be overcome with attention to detail.

COMMENTS ON OTHER STUDENTS’ POSTS:

     Nameita & Esther's:
I really like your project topic and ideas! For this project, I didn't think of using BIM to create a model of an existing structure. This is a great topic to choose to learn more about BIM as well as to learn about the house you have chosen. There definitely will be some challenges and issues with BIM being restrictive in certain aspects when recreating the house. But I'm sure you will do great and I look forward to seeing your final deliverables!

     Audrey, Jeremy, Tyler's:
Your team has picked a very interesting topic for this project. The dangers of maintenance, especially on modern high-rise structures are something many engineers may not really consider or think of during design but it is definitely a very important consideration. Investigating ways to be able to improve safety, especially during maintenance applications is a great topic for this class and relates well to the IB concept. Good pick and good luck!

SOURCES FOR MY PROJECT:

[1.]  ASCE. "The Vision for Civil Engineering in 2025." Asce.org. ASCE, 2007. Web. 29 Jan. 2014. <http://www.asce.org/uploadedFiles/Vision_2025_-_New/TheVisionforCivilEngineeringin2025_ASCE.pdf>.

[2.]  Fenves, Steven J., and William J. Rasdorf. "Role of Database Management Systems in Structural Engineering." Carnegie Mellon University. CMU.edu, 1 Jan. 1982. Web. 29 Jan. 2014. <http://repository.cmu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1011&context=cee>.