Application
Heavy Metal : Terrain Shaping Prototype
Sep 10th
Heavy Metal : Terrain Shaping Prototype is a client project at the ETC. In this project we are developing a 3D visualization system to work with Caterpillar’s remote and autonomous control systems for their heavy equipment. This also includes developing a graphical user interface and preparing a cost-benefit analysis of different game engine platforms that could be used in future projects.
http://www.etc.cmu.edu/projects/caterpillar3d
In my capacity as Producer I am responsible for the following:
- Client coordination
- Implementing a production schedule and methodology
- Managing the tasks of my team members
- Ensuring that deadlines, both internal and external, are met
In addition to these responsibilities, I will be taking on the bulk of the cost-benefit analysis task. This will include, performing the necessary research, working with the vendors to get pricing and other technical information and preparation of the overall document. I will also incorporate any technical input as necessary from my other team members.
Panda LE
Jul 17th
The Panda LE project’s goal is to build a working level editor using the Panda 3D Game Engine for use by the BVW class, NHSGA, and the ETC in general. In order to accomplish this goal we will be building the level editor as a standalone utility along with a world that demonstrates not only the capabilities of the level editor but also demonstrates the best that Panda3D can achieve visually.
The team is made up of 7 people consisting of:
- 1 producer
- 3 artists
- 2 programmers
- 1 artist/scripter
My responsibilities as Producer include the following:
- Managing the Schedule to hit our deadlines
- Managing the Scope of content both in programming and in art
- Manage the relationship with out project manager (ETC Faculty)
- Maintain the procedures that have been adopted by the team
- Bug Testing
- Documentation
In order to accomplish all of this I have implemented a system based loosely on a SCRUM Agile system. We hold daily meetings and send out daily emails. The two teams (Art and Programming) work on a sprint schedule of 2 week iterations. I ensure that the product we are developing meets the needs of our varied clientele.
Project Documentation:
ETC Library
Jul 17th
As producer on this project I worked with 2 programmers to design and develop a database library system for the physical library at the Entertainment Technology Center. This system replaced the handwritten on-your-honor system that was originally there and which was replete with errors, lost books and movies and chronically late books.
The new system is based on barcodes that have been placed in every item in the library which includes ~1500 books and ~1000 movies. Each one of them has an entry into the database which is then used as a checkout system for everyone at the ETC including faculty staff and students. It sends email reminders, has a hold and renew system, and features a robust search function.
My responsibilities as producer on this project are to:
- Design and Implement a new library database system
- Work with programmers to develop the actual database
- Enter in all items contained in the library
- Develop maintenance manuals to be used by future students.
- Monitor and maintain the system during my tenure at the ETC