Software Engineering and Design Project

Documentation Outline for Chapter 1

1.0

INTRODUCTION
1.1 Situational Analysis
1.2 Project Framework
1.3 Statement of Objectives
1.4 Significance of the Study
1.5 Scope and Limitation
1.6 Definition of Terms

S.M.A.R.T. Goal Questionnaire

Goal:
1. Specific: What will the goal accomplish? How and why it will be
accomplished.
2. Measurable: How will you measure whether or not the goal has been
reached (list at least two indicator)?
3. Achievable: is it possible? Have others done it successfully? Do you have
the necessary knowledge, skills, abilities, and resources to accomplish the
goal? Will meeting the goal challenge you without defeating you?
4. Results-focused: What is the reason, purpose or benefit of accomplishing
the goal? What is the result (not activities leading up the result) of goal?
5. Time Bound: What is the established completion date and does that
completion date create a practical sense of urgency.

Chapter 1 INTRODUCTION
This chapter serves as a backgrounder for readers to have an overview of the study
even without prior reference to other publications on the topic.
The introductory pages are important because they create the first and perhaps
lasting impression on the examiner. Use flow diagrams, headings, sub-headings,
etc. to create and sustain interest. Lead the reader from the known to the unknown.
Parts of the introduction are the following:
1.1 Situational Analysis

Also known as the Background of the Study

Situation Analysis should be presented from macro to micro understanding
existing scenario or situation.
It includes information necessary to justify the existence of a problem
situation/need/gap like statistical data from authoritative source(s).
There should be a clinching statement to link the situation analysis to project
problem.

Situational Analysis
This section includes the setting of the identified researched project. The
presentation should be directed into what the problem is investigating. The flow of
discussion should naturally lead to the presentation of the problem. It briefly
expresses the need to undertake the study about the said problem.
It should start with an introduction or opening statement about the main topic
leading to the specific topic and the identification of the nature of the proposal. It is
followed by a discussion on the specific topic leading to the problem definition.
Finally, a solution is proposed to solve the problem and its corresponding strategy.

Situational Analysis
(Opening statement about the main topic leading to specific topic)

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(Discussion on the specific topic leading to main problem)
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(Presentation of the main problem)

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(Evidences that the problem really exists. Cite sources of information)

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1.2 Project Framework

Present specific and well-defined constructs, assumptions, expectations and

beliefs that support the research study;
It can be a diagram that illustrates the relationship of the variables of the
study
Or this may take the form of (1) input-process-output; (2) the true system
approach; (3) flow chart system

The Logical Framework Matrix (Logframe)

The results of the stakeholder, problem, objectives and strategy analysis are
used as the basis for preparing the Logical Framework Matrix. The Logical
Framework Matrix (or more briefly the logframe) consists of a matrix with four
columns and four (or more) rows, which summarize the key elements of a project
plan and should generally be between 1 and 4 pages in length. However, this will
depend on the scale and complexity of the project.

Typical logical framework matrix. Source: BARRETO (2010)

1.3 Statement of Objectives

Present a perplexing situation/phenomenon that challenges a solution of a

felt need which can reflect contribution to knowledge, discipline and/or theory
and within the proponents skills and competence, interest and resources as
to time, budget and workability.
Indicate the direction/guideline of the study and answer the what, where,
when and from whom the data will be gathered in the general problem to
establish delimitation.
Present the sub-objectives in a logical sequence from factual to analytical
along mutually exclusive dimensions (no overlaps) with the exclusion of the
overview, expected conclusions, implications and recommendations of the
project.

Statement of Objectives

The objective of the study includes the general Objective and Specific
Objectives. The general objective captures the title of the study. It must contain the
subject matter of the study. It must be in response to solve the main or overall
problem presented. It must be broad enough to include all aspects of the subject
matter to be suited or investigated , yet it must be brief and concise as possible on
the other hand the specific objectives must be precise explicit and follow the
criteria of SMART.

Statement of Objectives
General Objective:
The general objective of this study is to
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Specific Objective:
This study pursued the following specific objectives:

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3.___________________________________________________________________________________
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1.4 Importance of the Study

Also known as the Significance of the Study

Describe the general contribution of the project to new knowledge, society
and or to development in general
Cite significance of the project to specific groups, programs, projects,
beneficiaries in the specific performance.

Importance of the Study

This section the researchers expresses the value or the importance of the
research study. It is where the significant contribution of the study is enumerated. It
consists of explanation and discussion of the following: the rationale, timeless and
relevance of the study; who are the beneficiaries and what are their benefits;
possible contribution to the body of knowledge and possible implications.

The use of the following phrases could help express the significance of the
study:

The result of the study will help them realize

The study will provide.
It will likewise serve
This study will contribute to

1.5 Scope and Limitations

The scope identifies the boundaries or coverage of the study while
delimitations define the constraints or weaknesses which are not within the control
of the researcher; therefore they are not expected to be covered by the study.
In other words the scope and limitation defines what the study is all about,
where and when the study is to be conducted and who the subjects are or whom the
study being made. Also included is a brief statement of the reason why the study is
conducted and how it will be resolved.
The use of the following phrases could help express the scope:

The study will focus on

It includes
The study consists of
The coverage of the study

The use of the following phrases could help express the limitation:

This study is limited to

The study does not cover
It does not seek to include

1.6 Definition of Terms

Only important terms from the title, statement of the problem or

objectives and paradigm should be defined.
Define terms operationally or how you use such term in the project.
There are two types of definition of terms to use on your project study:
Conceptual meaning and Operational meaning;
Conceptual terms/meanings are based on what a dictionary or
an encyclopedia tells.
On the other hand, Operational terms/meanings are based on how
the researchers used a term on their study.
The terms should be arranged alphabetically and should be defined
lexically and/or operationally.

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