Introduction to information systems T. Cornford, M. Shaikh is1 060 2013

2.4.1 Reporting spreadsheet assignments
When reporting your spreadsheet assignment, you need to produce the 
following items:
1. A description of the spreadsheet problem tackled.
2. A paper-based model of the problem representing the relations 
between the independent and dependent variables that you use. This 
may be in the form of a diagram or as arithmetical equations. For 
example, if a model was developed to cost products from a factory it 
might be based on formulae such as: 

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IS1060 Introduction to information systems
30
a. base cost = materials cost + handling charge; 
b. manufacturing cost = (batch set-up cost/batch size) + (time on 
machine * hourly machine rate)
c. total cost = base cost + manufacturing cost
This can be shown as above as formulae, but might better be shown in 
a diagram.
3. The design criteria used in preparing the spreadsheet (choice of 
multiple spreadsheets in a workbook, layout, task breakdown, choices 
made in cell formatting, use of colour).
4. A description of the key formulae used in the model (for example, as 
written for the spreadsheet).
5. Steps taken to enforce data validation (input validation, cross-checking 
of calculations, reporting of error conditions), and overall integrity of 
the model (appropriate use of cell referencing, not mixing variables 
and numbers in the same formula, etc).
6. Very brief descriptions of how the system is operated − the commands 
used to undertake each major task.
7. One or more figures showing the spreadsheet as it appears on the 
screen in whole or in part.
8. Reports and appropriately annotated graphs.
Remember, the total report should not exceed six pages of carefully laid 
out text. As with the database work, examples of printouts and other 
necessary computer generated reports can be appended. The assignment 
should have a copy of the submission form as the front page. Reports must 
be permanently bound together with the database report (for example, 
well stapled, not secured by paper clips or just slipped into plastic 
binders). Each page should be numbered and have your student number 
on it. The report must be produced with the aid of a word processor and 
you are expected to insert relevant diagrams or screen shots into the text.