Database develop. life cycle - Resource and Risk Assessment in Database Projects

Resource and Risk Assessment in Database Projects

Before starting actual database design or coding, project teams must ensure that:

Resources (people, technology, money, and time) are available.
Risks that could threaten the project’s success are identified, evaluated, and managed.

This step helps answer: “Can we realistically complete this project within limits and overcome obstacles?”

Resources are the inputs required to carry out the project.

Human Resources:
- Database administrators (DBAs)
- Data analysts
- Developers (SQL, application, backend engineers)
- System administrators
- Project managers
- End-user representatives (for feedback and testing)
Technical Resources:
- Hardware (servers, storage, networking devices)
- Software (DBMS, development tools, monitoring tools)
- Licenses and subscriptions (SQL Server, Oracle, cloud services)
- Backup and recovery systems
Financial Resources:
- Budget for staff, tools, training, and maintenance
- Costs for DBMS, hardware, and cloud infrastructure
- Contingency budget for unexpected issues
Time Resources:
- Project timeline and deadlines
- Time allocated for training users
- Buffer time for unexpected delays

Risks are uncertainties that may cause problems if not managed.

Types of Risks in Database Projects:
- Technical Risks:
  - Incompatible DBMS with existing systems
  - Poor scalability of chosen technology
  - Data migration failures
- Resource Risks:
  - Lack of skilled personnel
  - Budget overruns
  - Insufficient hardware capacity
- Operational Risks:
  - Security breaches or data leaks
  - Downtime during migration
  - Backup failures
- Project Management Risks:
  - Poorly defined requirements
  - Scope creep (adding new features mid-project)
  - Missed deadlines
Risk Analysis Process:
1. Identify Risks: Brainstorm with stakeholders, analyze similar past projects.
2. Assess Probability and Impact:
  - Probability: Low, Medium, High
  - Impact: Minor, Moderate, Critical
  - Example: "Data migration failure – Medium probability, High impact."
3. Rank Risks: Use a risk matrix to prioritize.
4. Plan Mitigation:
  - Preventive measures (training, pilot testing, robust design).
  - Contingency plans (alternative DBMS, rollback plan, extra budget).
5. Monitor Risks Continuously: Update the risk register as the project evolves.

For a hospital database project:

Resource Needs:
- 5 developers, 2 DBAs, cloud hosting, HIPAA-compliant DBMS.
Risks Identified:
- High risk of security breaches (patient data confidentiality).
- Medium risk of staff resistance to new system.
- Low risk of budget overrun (well-funded project).
Mitigation:
- Strong encryption + role-based access.
- Staff training sessions.
- Regular monitoring and backup.