a new challenge (for me at least)

[jhansen]

I am just on the edge of a new database cliff. ready to jump off, but want to make sure the planning is correct. So...

I need to make a Decision Making Framework for a Client for allocation of physical space in their building from competing interests. So far, we have a flow chart which outlines the process for approving/rejecting a request, and now I just need to set up the whole thing. Having set up many databases the LONG and WRONG way, I thought that perhaps before I leap, I'd just ask for an opinion (or two or twelve).

I have attached a jpeg of what the approved flowchart looks like.

Ok, here goes.
I want the evaluation of each request for space to either pass or fail different criteria, but they must pass one to move to the next one. so, in the end I want to have an entry form which is either a series of subforms for each level of evaluation (which appear as you answer the questions correctly from the previous level), or a form with one subform with criteria visible if the answers are correct.

Question: (the first of probably many)
1. I initially thought I would have only 2 main tables for this database - one for requests, and one for evaluation. Is this a good start, or should I have each criteria which is dependant upon the score from a prior critera in a separate table?

I really appreciate any input on this. It will truly save me hours of pain and suffering.

 

[FoFa]

From the information supplied, I would do 2 tables, the second holding the data for the steps, and I would create a row for each step in the process.
Evaluation
Req#, StepID, Score, App/Disapp, remarks

Or something along those lines. THis way if the steps change later, you are not tied in to individuale tables or fields. You can remove or add a step with only logic changes which you most likely would have to do anyway.

Question, is this geared to be approved online, or sent to someone to review each eval step and make the determination then? You may want additional information on the approval process if it is seperate.

 

[jhansen]

In response to
"Question, is this geared to be approved online, or sent to someone to review each eval step and make the determination then? You may want additional information on the approval process if it is seperate."

I believe that a committee will be set up within the organization to review each space request. So, I think that one central location will be set up to input the results of this process. The assignment of space is fraught with political crap, so this is supposed (?!) to be an objective tool to evaluate all requests consistently.

Thanks for your help.
J