Week 10: Databases - Clear

What Is SQL?
information from O'Reily Media

SQL is a special-purpose language used to define, access, and manipulate data. SQL is nonprocedural, meaning that it describes the necessary components (i.e., tables) and desired results without dictating exactly how those results should be computed. Every SQL implementation sits atop a database engine, whose job it is to interpret SQL statements and determine how the various data structures in the database should be accessed to accurately and efficiently produce the desired outcome.

The SQL language includes two distinct sets of commands: Data Definition Language (DDL) is the subset of SQL used to define and modify various data structures, while Data Manipulation Language (DML) is the subset of SQL used to access and manipulate data contained within the data structures previously defined via DDL. DDL includes numerous commands for handling such tasks as creating tables, indexes, views, and constraints, while DML is comprised of just five statements:

INSERT

Adds data to a database.

UPDATE

Modifies data in a database.

DELETE

Removes data from a database.

MERGE

Adds and/or modifies data in a database. MERGE is part of the 2003 ANSI SQL standard.

SELECT

Retrieves data from a database.

http://www.devshed.com/c/a/Oracle/Introduction-to-SQL/

Microsoft Access Project

The database project was the most challenging, frustrating and valuable experiences I've had thus far. I learned how to construct a table and use access features like input mask, data type and the description field. The table portion of the project was not as challenging as the other tasks. I successfully imported data. I struggled with this step but after I used the proper import file type and data qualifier I imported all the data successfully!

The next step was the most challenging for me, creating a query. Selecting the data and using the design view made things simple but I struggled with the criteria for the accurate dates. Somehow I deleted information on my "members" table. This was frustrating and made it difficult to move forward with the project without starting completely over.

Everything the began to come together and kinda sort of became a little fun despite the tedium. I enjoyed creating the form and the report. This experience has taught me that if I want to apply this knowledge to my current job, I will have to a lot plenty of time (and patience) to complete different tasks until I become extremely proficient. The results of using a database are beneficial to anyone.

Additional ways to enhance the functionality of this database would be to create membership applications with the gym logos on the forms or attach member photos to their membership information.

Presentations & Web 2.0

Completing the presentations and web 2.0 project was a beneficial experience. I currently work in the nonprofit sector and learning about different technology, free applications and strategies for marketing are useful tools. Small nonprofits and grass roots nonprofits are always looking for professional yet inexpensive ways to market products and services and develop brand recognition.

I enjoyed putting my project together but my biggest critique is that I should've have used more multimedia like music, voice or videos. I had a great opportunity to be creative and I am looking forward to presenting this project to an organization I volunteer for as the foundation for a possible donor solicitation campaign.

http://http//portal.sliderocket.com/AILKL/GEMS-Presentation-5-

Week 7: Muddy - Mapping Out Your Story

You can't overestimate the need to plan and prepare. In most of the mistakes I've made, there has been this common theme of inadequate planning beforehand. You really can't over-prepare in business!
Chris Corrigan

Creating a storyboard is an excellent way to prepare for a presentation. It allows one to develop a well thought out plan that clearly communicates and illustrates the intended message. A storyboard also provides the opportunity to make changes to the script or animations before actually creating the final product. It is an effective way to prepare.

I have listed five steps to creating a storyboard summarized from the Purdue University website (http://www.digitalparlor.org/courses/clark1/storyboarding):


1.Find or create a storyboard template

2.Each frame should represent a unique page or step in a sequence

3.In each frame, identify your content. Use shorthand to describe the content (including images and audio) that you want to include and approximately where it should be placed, as in the example below.

4.Add notes to each frame to help you present and remember information

5.Upon completion of the rough draft of your storyboard be sure that the order is accurate and makes sense


Please click links for additional resources:
http://www.sotherden.com/video101/storyboard.htm
http://www.thestoryboardartist.com/

Week 6: Clear - Vector Graphics

Computer displays are made up from grids of small rectangular cells called pixels. The smaller and closer the cells, the better the picture but if the image increases in size, the pixels become grainy and the picture is distorted. No one likes a pixellated image. Vector graphics help to remedy this type of distortion.

Vector graphics files store the lines, shapes and colours that make up an image as mathematical formulae. A vector graphics program uses these mathematical formulae to construct the screen image, building the best quality image possible, given the screen resolution. Using the mathmatic formula produces the best quality image regardless of the scale. Vector graphics allows for a more precise higher resolutions image giving a sharper quality than pixels.

Check out this link for additional information:
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vector_graphics

Week 6: Excel Project

The Excel project required me to analyze data from a large fitness center in a spreadsheet. I was the employee for the fitness center and my task was to use the information provided in the spreadsheet to assist the owner in researching the effectiveness of a particular workout. This task required me to use basic excel skills necessary to navigate the spreadsheet, create and name new worksheets, name and create columns, adjust widths, format cells and create pivot tables to name a few. I also had to prepare the final document for printing which required me to configure the layout to ensure a professional looking report.

I loved this assignment. Excel has always been somewhat of an enigma to me especially creating formulas. I enjoyed applying everything I learned from the scavenger hunt to this project. I currently work for a small nonprofit that needs this type data analysis. This was my first time creating a pivot table. What a useful tool! This project left me empowered. I've read books and watched tutorials but this project brought everything together for me. I am so happy to be able to directly apply everything I learned from this project to my professional and personal life. Excel is great!

Week 5: Muddy - Excel Formulas

Excel by far is my favorite Microsoft application. I love the data analysis capabilities. Excel is extremely useful in my professional and personal work.

Traditionally, I used excel for simple tasks, reports and organizing data. Learning about formulas unlocked a whole new world. Using the formulas is the most useful thing about Excel. Learning different formulas always appeared challenging and intimidating. Once I learned the basics to formatting cells and implementing equations, I began to discover what a true jewel the Excel software is.

Please read the following link. It briefly presents some basic information about Excel formulas.
http://www.ehow.com/how_9699_create-excel-formula.html