Topic 5: Systems Development Flashcards
Agile/Adaptive Method
An alternative approach to systems development that involves short, team-based efforts whereby a small amount of functionality is built, designed and tested.
Bug Correction
Involves fixing any errors in the system as a result of programming mistakes.
Computer-aided Software Engineering (CASE) Systems
Software packages that can help in the various stages of systems development, but particularly in the design of source code and user documentation.
Direct Conversion
Involves switching off an old system and immediately switching on a new system.
Feasibility Analysis
Involves the evaluation of the alternatives identified to determine whether they are legitimate options for the business to consider at later stages of the development.
Financial Feasibility
Assessment of the costs involved in adopting a new system, systematically compared with the financial benefits of a new system.
Gantt Chart
A graphical way of planning and controlling the progress of a systems development project.
Legal Feasibility
How the proposed system would operate given the legal environment faced by the organisation.
Logical Perspective
An approach that is concerned with a design that is independent of the actual technology required for its implementation.
Organisational Fit
How well the technology is aligned with the overall organisational strategy and strategic priorities.
Parallel Conversion
Involves running the new system and the old system together for a period of time, or operating them in parallel.
Phased-in Conversion
Involves a gradual implementation of the system throughout the organisation.
Physical Perspective
Requires specification of the technical aspects of how a design will be achieved.
Programmed Evaluation Review Technique (PERT) Chart
A chart constructed through the identification of all the activities that must take place for the project to be successfully completed, with time allocations given to each activity and activities sequenced based on necessary prerequisite and subsequent activities.
Prototyping Approach
Involves the progressive building of models, allowing users to experience these models and provide feedback on their operation and suitability.
Request For Proposal (RFP)
A document outlining the specifications for the new system, which is sent out to potential vendors.
Schedule Feasibility
The ability of the proposed solution to be implemented within the period of time that is specified by the organisation.
Strategic Feasibility
How well the proposed systems development alternative fits in with the organisation’s existing operating environment and strategy.
System Improvement
Involves adding new features or functions to the system, thus increasing its potential usefulness.
System Modification
Involves taking an existing feature and altering or changing it.
Systems Development Scope
Defining what problems the systems development project will cover.
Systems Development Steering Committee
Responsible for determining whether the systems development project should proceed; members typically occupy positions of power throughout the organisation.
Technical Feasibility
The assessment of how well the organisation’s existing technology infrastructure meets the requirements of the proposed alternative.
Total Cost of Ownership
The need to consider not just the initial costs of installing a system but also the ongoing costs following the implementation of a system.
