IT 510 Ch 4 Flashcards
Actor
An external entity with a specific role. In a use case model, actors are used to model interaction with the system.
Brainstorming
A fact-finding technique for gaining information through the use of a small group discussion of a specific problem, opportunity, or issue.
Closed-ended question
Query that limits or restricts the range of responses. Used in the interview process when specific information or fact verification is desired.
Construction phase
A phase that focuses on program and application development tasks similar to the SDLC.
Cutover phase
A phase that resembles the final tasks in the SDLC implementation phase, including data conversion, testing, changeover to the new system, and user training.
Document review
A review of baseline documentation. A useful fact-finding technique that helps an analyst understand how the current system is supposed to work
Engaged listening
The ability to really concentrate on what someone is saying and avoid the temptation to hear what is expected. Also includes noticing nonverbal communication
Fact-finding
A step in the requirements modeling process that involves gathering facts about a systems project using techniques such as interviews, documentation review, observation, questionnaires, sampling, and research
Fill-in form
A template used to collect data on the Internet or a company intranet
Functional decomposition diagram (FDD)
A top-down representation of business functions and processes. Also called a structure chart.
Hawthorne Effect
A phenomenon where employees who know they are being observed are more productive
Histogram
A common tool for showing the distribution of questionnaire of sampling results. It takes the form of a vertical bar chart.
Informal structure
An organization based on interpersonal relationships, which can develop from previous work assignments, physical proximity, unofficial procedures, or personal relationships
Input
Necessary data that enters a system, either manually or in an automated manner.
Interview
A planned meeting during which information is obtained from another person
Leading question
Query that suggests or favors a particular reply
Observation
A fact-finding technique where an analyst sees a system in action. Observation allows the verification of statements made in interviews.
Open-ended question
Query that allows for a range of answers. It encourages spontaneous and unstructured responses, and is useful in understanding a larger process
Output
Electronic or printed information produced by an information system
Performance
System characteristics such as speed, volume, capacity, availability, and reliability.
Personal information manager (PIM)
A tool that helps manage tasks and schedules. Many handheld devices also include this function.
Pool
The overall diagram in business process modeling notation (BPMN).
Process
Procedure or task that users, managers, and IT staff members perform. The logical rules of a system that are applied to transform data into meaningful information. In data flow diagrams, a process receives input data and produces output that has a different content, form, or both.
Productivity software
Applications such as word processing, spreadsheet, database management, and presentation graphics programs.
