Improved classified material control through the application of a database management system

Abstract

Most military organizations maintain classified material but systems of accountability vary from one command to another. This thesis presents the design and implementation of a prototype database system, called COMMANDOC, that provides an automated method of tracking these documents including autocustody to a secondary control point, check out to an individual user, transfer to a new command and destruction. All required reports are generated by the system. In addition to the information on the actual documents, the database contains information on the personnel authorized to use both the documents and to operate the system, thereby ensuring that only personnel with the necessary access are allowed to check out documents. A password system ensures that only authorized personnel utilize the system, and a weekly audit report of system users is provided to the supervisor. The system provides a simple menu interface that leads the user through each step of a transaction and a user's manual is provided.