A Influência de um método no desenvolvimento de software: um estudo de caso sobre o sistema de reserva de salas da Engenharia Elétrica

Abstract

Software engineering is an area that provides development for methodological work and experience in developing programs, databases, etc. In this academic environment, room reservations are crucial to ensuring a smooth flow of academic activities and making appropriate use of available spaces. The current system for the electrical engineering course, based on the Google Sheets platform, while operational, has many deficiencies. There are usability issues that truly negatively affect operators' experience, impacting operational efficiency. Additionally, the long implementation period has only further developed users' knowledge of the system and, paradoxically, resistance to significant changes. This aligns with what the industry faces with legacy systems: old software, often deeply integrated into daily operations, needs to be updated or replaced to align with new technological developments and market requirements. The real challenge in transforming these systems is not only the high cost but also the consequences of changing them to something new and efficient. This work aims to demonstrate the importance and benefits of adopting a structured and modern approach in software development, with the room reservation system serving as an illustrative example. It involves conducting an extensive diagnosis of the current room reservation system, checking its functionalities, usability, and limitations, as well as documenting important parts of the system that can identify main operational bottlenecks and areas susceptible to improvement. Strategic changes are recommended in the system to make it modern, thereby increasing usability, operational efficiency, and reducing dependence on manual interventions. The justification for the proposed restructuring of the room reservation system is twofold: the immediate need to address operational issues and the potential to enable more interaction and collaboration between courses and departments at the Federal University of Mato Grosso (UFMT). This study's contribution also adds valuable insights into how modern software development methods can be effectively applied in contexts where resistance to change and dependence on antiquated systems are abundant. Additionally, the work will be academically contributory to the literature on this subject by providing understanding of managing technological changes in a complex and well-established educational environment.