Preserving Scholarly Endeavors: A System for Archiving Thesis and Dissertations

Abstract:  The Thesis and Dissertations Archiving System was developed as a pivotal software solution to streamline the storage and organization of research papers within the University of Industrial Technology (CIT). This innovative system was meticulously designed to provide a user-friendly interface, efficient search functionality, seamless tracking of thesis and dissertation projects, and streamlined book borrowing and returning processes. Employing a research methodology rooted in descriptive and developmental research approaches, data collection was conducted using a standardized research instrument. The software development process adhered to the Rapid Application Development (RAD) Model, emphasizing rapid prototyping and iterative development to create a robust system. The primary beneficiaries of this system included CIT Department administrators, as well as a diverse user base comprising faculty and students of CHMSU, along with external researchers. Evaluation of the system’s effectiveness and usability was carried out using the Post-Study System Usability Questionnaire (PSSUQ), yielding a highly promising mean score of 2.28, indicative of strong usability and acceptance among respondents. The study’s findings underscored the system’s exceptional acceptance and utility, positioning it as an indispensable tool for the University community. With its enhanced accessibility, efficiency, and seamless information retrieval capabilities, the system was recommended for institution-wide implementation to optimize archiving and information retrieval processes, benefiting researchers across the board.