Software and database model

Out of a long list of available products with its own strengths and weaknesses (Oracle, SQL-Server, Sybase, Informix, Interbase, Delphi, Paradox, Dbase, Approach, 4^th Dimension, File Maker, FoxPro, ...) the relational database management system (RDBMS) Microsoft^® Access^®  (MSA) integrated in the software package Microsoft^® Office^® for Windows 9x/NT/2000 has been chosen because of its wide distribution at andrology centres in Germany. MSA is a powerful RDBMS that incorporates a client-server architecture and allows the portability to the used hard- and software at the infertility centres. On the other hand, this system causes three problems. Firstly, there is no downstream compatibility (e.g. Access 2.0, 95 (7.0), 97 (8.0)). Secondly, it is difficult to set up a management system for real time task with high amounts of data under remote area conditions.

All data are stored in 4 Backends, 114 tables, more than 100 reports and app.1000 fields. User Access is given by two FrontEnds: WSP Client and WSP Work. The first realises a structured data entry while the latter gives unlimited access for scientific evaluation. The CryoBase defined as an completely integrated repository system which covers all features to administrate cryopreservation related data.

The software development was organised according to the principles of evolutionary system development in co-operation with six university based centres of andrology (Leipzig, Muenster, Marburg, Frankfurt, Munich and Jena . This type of development realised a close integration of the user from the beginning and resulted in an enhanced quality of process management while developing the software.