CONTEXT
For my course project I am working with a local building company to design a computer system that will keep track of projects, clients and accounts.
ACTION
Before I could begin to set this up it was necessary for me to develop an understanding of the company and its existing procedures but, although the managing director was keen for the project to be carried out, he always seemed too busy to meet me and discuss the company and the project and three appointments were cancelled at short notice. At this stage, I could have abandoned the project altogether, or asked my supervisor to intervene, but I tried another tactic and suggested to the Managing Director that I should work-shadow him for a few days. This allowed me to form an idea of the company and its work, as questions as they arose and hold numerous discussions in the car on the way to sites and clients.
RESULT
This gave me the background I needed to begin the project and also allowed me to form a good working relationship with the MD who was able to see that I was not just a 'techie' computer student but somebody who was interested in all aspects of the business. Click here for the other analysing examples