Introduction to Systems Analysis and Design

Introduction to Systems Analysis and Design

• This course explores the principles and practices of system analysis and design
• Key concepts include requirements gathering, system modeling, and design patterns
• Learning outcomes include explaining the systems development life cycle (SDLC) and its four phases
• Describing the evolution of systems development methodologies
• Reviewing the different roles and skills of a systems analyst

System vs. Information System

• A system is a set of components interacting to achieve a common goal
• Information systems (IS) use hardware, software, data, people, and procedures to produce useful information
• Businesses use various systems (financial, inventory, customer relationship management) to manage their operations

What is System Development?

• System development is the process of analyzing a business situation to improve it using better procedures and methods
• Key components include system analysis and system design

Collaborative Process

• System development involves various stakeholders (analysts, designers, developers) who work together to achieve the desired outcome

Process Improvement

• System development aims to improve business processes to make them more efficient, effective, and streamlined

Structured Approach

• System development often follows a structured approach, involving phases of analysis, design, implementation, and testing

Beginning of System Development

• System development can start with new design ideas, evolving environments (market trends), and/or new product lines

Information System Definition

• An information system (IS) is a collection of hardware, software, data, people, and procedures working together to generate useful information

Tools for System Development

• Software Support: Tools for creating models, diagrams, and components, ranging from basic drawing programs to sophisticated CASE tools
• CASE Tools: Computer-Aided Software Engineering tools that automate software development tasks like design, coding, and testing
• Modeling Tools: Tools that visualize system architecture, data flow, user interactions to ease understanding and communication among developers

Some Tools Used

• Project Management Applications: Tools to manage tasks, resources, and deadlines, often using a central platform for collaboration
• Drawing/Graphics Applications: Tools to create diagrams, flowcharts, and other visual representations
• Word Processing/Text Editors: Tools for documentation, specifications, and code generation to allow clear communication
• Computer-Aided System Engineering (CASE) Tools: Tools with automated support for data modeling, process analysis, and code generation

Techniques in System Development

• Strategic Planning: Defining project goals, scope, and allocating resources
• Project Management: Organizing tasks, assigning roles, tracking progress, and maintaining deadlines
• User Interviewing: Gathering user requirements for system development
• Data Modeling: Representing data structures and relationships

Visual Representation

• Diagrams (Data Flow Diagrams, Entity-Relationship Diagrams, Use Case Diagrams) help to visualize system processes, data relationships, and user interactions

Methodology Overview

• Structured Approach: A method for completing every activity in the SDLC
• System Request: A well-defined request, crucial for large projects
• SDLC Stages: The distinct stages comprising the SDLC, each with objectives and deliverables

System Development Methodologies

• Structured Approach: Implementing the SDLC in a structured manner
• Business Processes or Data: Leveraging business process or data models in methodologies
• Iterative Process: Breaking down development into manageable phases

Structured Design

• Methodical Progression: Projects progressing in a logical sequence, completing one step before moving to the next
• Sequential Execution: Completing each phase before starting the next, emphasizing structured approach
• Clear Transitions: Ensures a systematic and organized development process avoiding confusion and overlaps

Structured - Waterfall Approach

• A sequential design process, following distinct phases (requirement gathering to implementation and maintenance)
• Emphasizing sequential stages and complete documentation

Systems Development Life Cycle (Waterfall Model)

• Project Initiation and Planning: Defining project scope, goals, and resources
• Analysis: Gathering requirements from stakeholders, analyzing existing systems, and identifying potential solutions
• Design: Defining system architecture, interfaces, and functionalities, translating requirements into technical specifications
• Implementation: Coding, testing, and deploying the system as per the design specifications
• Maintenance: Ensuring the system's continuous operation, addressing issues, implementing changes and providing ongoing support

This quiz covers the principles and practices of systems analysis and design, including key concepts like requirements gathering and system modeling. You will also explore the systems development life cycle (SDLC) and the roles of a systems analyst. Test your knowledge on the evolution of system development methodologies and the differences between systems and information systems.