Where to start with the development of first database driven Web App (long question)?

I have the feeling that you are trying to grab too much at once. It is fine to experiment with databases, TDD and UML diagrams; that in itself would IMHO be enough for a single project. This first experimental project will teach you a lot, based on which you will be able to do a much better job on the next project.

But I would not expect this first try to bring results which can convince other developers to pick up TDD, and/or management to change its way of thinking. You need to understand and experience things at first yourself, before you can reasonably explain them to others.

I cant really gove you an answer,but what I can give you is a way to a solution, that is you have to find the anglde that you relate to or peaks your interest. A good paper is one that people get drawn into because it reaches them ln some way.As for me WW11 to me, I think of the holocaust and the effect it had on the survivors, their families and those who stood by and did nothing until it was too late.