CHAPTER 13 System Analysis and Design

Summary

The System Analysis and Design process is vital for organizations to create and implement efficient information systems. It follows a six-phase life cycle: Preliminary Investigation, System Analysis, System Design, System Development, System Implementation, and System Maintenance. These phases include identifying system needs, designing solutions, acquiring necessary software and hardware, transitioning from the old system, and maintaining the new system. Alternatives like Prototyping and Rapid Application Development (RAD) offer shorter development times but come with their own challenges. This structured approach ensures the creation of effective, adaptable systems that meet organizational needs.

Takeaways

• 😀 The system analysis and design process follows a six-step system life cycle to develop effective information systems.
• 😀 The first phase, preliminary investigation, focuses on identifying the problem, suggesting alternative systems, and preparing a short report.
• 😀 In the system analysis phase, data about the current system is collected and analyzed to determine new system requirements using tools like flowcharts and data flow diagrams.
• 😀 System design is the most crucial phase, focusing on selecting a feasible system based on economic, technical, and operational factors.
• 😀 Three types of feasibility in system design include economic feasibility (cost-benefit analysis), technical feasibility (hardware and software reliability), and operational feasibility (fit within the organization).
• 😀 The system development phase involves acquiring software and hardware, followed by a test run to remove errors before system implementation.
• 😀 System implementation, or conversion, involves transitioning from the old system to the new system using different approaches, including direct, parallel, pilot, and phased methods.
• 😀 Training users to operate the new system is critical during the system implementation phase.
• 😀 The final phase, system maintenance, ensures the system continues to operate efficiently and eliminates errors through periodic evaluations and system audits.
• 😀 Prototyping and rapid application development (RAD) are alternatives to the full system life cycle that focus on shorter development times and faster delivery, with trade-offs in cost and project management.

Q & A

What is the purpose of the system analysis and design process?

The purpose of the system analysis and design process is to create and effectively implement a system that meets the organization's needs through a structured six-phase life cycle.

What are the three main tasks in the preliminary investigation phase?

The three main tasks in the preliminary investigation phase are problem identification, suggesting alternative systems, and preparing a short report.

How is problem identification achieved in the preliminary investigation phase?

Problem identification is achieved by examining the current information system, determining what information is needed by whom and why, through methods like interviews and observations.

What tools are used during the system analysis phase to analyze data?

Tools used in the system analysis phase include top-down analysis, decision tables, system flowcharts, data flow diagrams, and automated design tools.

What are the three types of feasibility considered during system design?

The three types of feasibility in system design are economic feasibility (cost vs. benefits), technical feasibility (hardware, software, and training reliability), and operational feasibility (system's suitability within the organization).

What questions should be considered when selecting the best system in the design phase?

When selecting the best system, questions to consider include whether the system fits into the overall information system, whether it is flexible for future modifications, if it is secure, and whether its benefits outweigh its costs.

What happens during the system development phase?

During the system development phase, software and hardware are acquired, and a test run of the system is conducted to remove errors before the new system is implemented.

What is the most critical and expensive activity during system implementation?

The most critical and expensive activity during system implementation is the conversion process, where the old system is replaced with the new system.

What are the four types of conversion approaches used during system implementation?

The four types of conversion approaches are direct, parallel, pilot, and phased approaches. Each has different levels of risk and cost, with varying degrees of effectiveness.

Why is system maintenance important?

System maintenance is important to eliminate errors, ensure the system functions properly over time, and adjust it to any changes in its working environment. It includes periodic evaluations and system audits.