Since it stores and retrieves data, confirmation letters may be generated from registration information without retyping names and addresses. Computerized tabulation is less likely to result in scoring errors. When processing data by hand, errors may occur when transposing data from scorecards to a master score sheet and when adding scores. By using Purdue's computerized contest organizer and tabulation program, errors are less likely to occur. Further, the system won't tabulate final scores if data are missing, thereby giving verification that the data set is complete.
Results are available more quickly when using a computerized versus manual tabulation program.
The computer adds scores, ranks individuals and teams, breaks ties, and divides contestants by division and age faster than a group of individuals. The program was developed to make the job of planning and conducting a judging event easier, given the normal problems encountered when manually performing judging tasks. Several factors were considered in devising this program. Given these factors Dbase 3.3 Plus was selected as the database program because of its widespread use and power to handle large numbers of data factors. Clipper was selected as the programming language.