Introduction to SIA - Chapter 1 Lesson 1

Focus on integrating information systems within organizations to enhance software compatibility.
Examine strategies, methods, tools, and techniques for effective systems integration.
Emphasizes independence of systems while achieving flexibility, speed, cost efficiency, standardization, data integrity, reliability, and robustness.
Aim to equip students with an understanding of technical and business process challenges in systems integration.

Defined as a temporary endeavor aimed at creating a unique product or service.
Attributes of projects include unique purpose, temporary nature, need for diverse resources, existence of a primary sponsor, and involvement of uncertainty.
Sources of information systems projects arise from problems, opportunities for improvement, and new requirements.

Necessity for projects to function within a wider organizational context, requiring a holistic perspective from project managers.

Stakeholders encompass individuals directly involved or impacted by project activities, including sponsors, project teams, support staff, customers, users, suppliers, and project opponents.
Identifying stakeholders, especially senior executives, is crucial for project success.

Core organizational structures outline roles and responsibilities:
- Functional
- Project
- Matrix

Project phases may vary but typically include:
- Concept
- Development
- Implementation
- Support

Evaluates the likelihood of project completion within the specified timeframe, focusing on realistic and achievable project schedules.

Scope and Objectives: Clearly defined project goals, deliverables, and limitations.
Task Breakdown: Employment of a work breakdown structure (WBS) for organized task distribution.
Time Estimation: Gathering accurate time estimates by using historical data and expert judgment.
Resource Availability: Assessing the availability and skills of team members and resources, ensuring task-skill alignment.
Tools and Techniques: Utilizing project management tools such as Gantt charts and Critical Path Method (CPM) for effective schedule management.

Architecture involves planning, designing, and constructing solutions, centered around solving problems through software (code) rather than physical structures.
Software architecture represents the organization of a system, mapping functionality to hardware/software components and human interactions with these elements.