1. Develop algorithms to represent solutions to a given problem

1.1 Consult with client and key stakeholders to identify the problem and associated script requirements

1.2 Employ abbreviated software development cycle to script creation

1.3 Develop an algorithm to solve the problem and meet client requirements

1.4 Develop an algorithm which takes account of expected possible situations

1.5 Develop an algorithm which is guaranteed to end

1.6 Demonstrate use of structure, sequence, selection and iteration

2. Create code

2.1 Select appropriate scripting language

2.2 Demonstrate understanding and application of basic language syntax rules and best practices

2.3 Select and use language data types, operators and expressions to create clear and concise code

2.4 Use techniques of selection, iteration and sequence to control script execution flow

2.5 Use techniques for sequential file input and output to retrieve and store information

2.6 Obtain and use user input to affect the operation of the script

2.7 Apply internal document principles to created code

2.8 Follow organisational guidelines for developing maintainable code when creating scripts

2.9 Adhere to coding standards when creating scripts

3. Use operating system tools

3.1 Use searching and sorting tools to select information from the logging output of operating system (OS)

3.2 Implement controls to ensure that where significant events occur, script creates and maintains a log of operations via operating system logging mechanism

3.3 Register and run scripts with OS scheduling facility

4. Test and debug code

4.1 Engineer, document and conduct simple tests to confirm code meets design specification

4.2 Identify areas that are not covered or are covered incorrectly in the script

4.3 Take action to ensure that code complies with security policy

4.4 Take action to ensure that code operates with proper permissions

4.5 Use script debugging techniques suitable for use with scripting language to detect and resolve errors of syntactical, logical and design origin

5. Document script

5.1 Create technical-level documentation

5.2 Create user-level documentation

Overview of assessment

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit

Evidence of the ability to:

develop an algorithmic statement of a solution for a set process

design, document, construct and test a small single-purpose OS utility application in response to a problem description

create scripted programs that access information stored in files on the system and use system utility programs to sort or find information within these files

validate and record script results.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Assessment must ensure access to:

technical requirements

software development environment

software testing environment

appropriate learning and assessment support when required.

Where applicable, physical resources should include equipment modified for people with special needs.

Method of assessment

A range of assessment methods should be used to assess practical skills and knowledge. The following examples are appropriate for this unit:

verbal or written questioning of required skills and knowledge, such as: algorithm design, structured control constructs, basic scripting development methodologies and their application

evaluation of algorithm design

evaluation of a small single-purpose OS utility application

evaluation of completed test plan and documentation.

Guidance information for assessment

Holistic assessment with other units relevant to the industry sector, workplace and job role is recommended, where appropriate.

Assessment processes and techniques must be culturally appropriate, and suitable to the communication skill level, language, literacy and numeracy capacity of the candidate and the work being performed.

Indigenous people and other people from a non-English speaking background may need additional support.

In cases where practical assessment is used it should be combined with targeted questioning to assess required knowledge.

Client may include:

external organisations

information and communications technology (ICT) company

individuals

internal departments

internal employees

service industry.

Stakeholders may include:

development team

information technology (IT) manager or representative

network engineer

project team

systems administrator

user.

Algorithm may include:

flow chart

pseudocode

structured English.

Scripting language may include:

C, C++

JavaScript

Linux shell scripts

Perl

Python

VBScript

VB.Net

Windows PowerShell.

Organisational guidelines may include:

communication methods

content of emails

dispute resolution

document procedures and templates

downloading information and accessing particular websites

financial control mechanisms

opening mail with attachments

personal use of emails and internet access

virus risk.

Coding standards may include:

GNU coding standard

Java coding standard

organisation standards.

Operating system may include:

Linux

Mac

Novell

Windows.