A3 - 3 - Part 3 - Factors to consider

Question 1

Choosing Software

Answer 1

Ease of use - Familiarity and ease of use is paramount

Reliability - ensuring software works as intended and can be depended upon

capability - that the software can do the job required and do it effectively

Question 2

Performance

Answer 2

The maturity of software - stable versions of software can be more efficient given there has been time for bugs to be resolved

interoperability - interface with other devices or system

• support of dedicated hardware for complex tasks

Question 3

User Experience/ needs

Answer 3

• Require additional training for users?
  Can additional training be provided in house, or will they need to use an outside training agency. Does the software come with adequate user guides whereby users may be able to ‘teach’ themselves?
• incorporate the same accessibility features – similar to the previous point, but the particular needs of individuals in the organisation may have to be considered.

Question 4

Specifications

Answer 4

This will depend largely on the current software. If the software is bespoke the organisation will be able to incorporate features best suited to their specific needs

Question 5

Current operating system and current hardware

Answer 5

There may be computers of different specifications/ages in use and the operating systems may vary. They must ensure that the software will work on all, otherwise they are going to have to consider the implications of replacing / upgrading those where the OS is not compatible.

Question 6

Previous versions of application software

Answer 6

could be implications for previously created designs

Question 7

Implementation factors

Answer 7

• amount of downtime
• timing
• who would carry out the upgrade?

Question 8

user support

Answer 8

In addition to support needed during implementation is post implementation support available, both in terms of onsite help and call desk facilities?