WJEC GCSE Digital Technology - Topic 2 SA

Overview of Systems Analysis, Design, and Implementation

• A Systems Analyst investigates the existing system using methods such as questionnaires, feasibility reports, interviews, and observing staff.
• The feasibility report includes identifying the scope of the current system, existing hardware and software, problems with the system, and understanding the requirements and ability to cope with new system demands.
• During analysis, Data Flow Diagrams, Decision Tables, and Data Dictionaries are used to map out information flow, simplify decision rules, and explain database fields.
• The design stage includes hardware, software, network, staff issues, and security procedures.
• Implementation involves selecting a changeover method, installing hardware and software.
• Maintenance is ongoing and involves user guides, technical manuals, and error checking.
• Evaluation determines how well the system meets initial requirements, identifies necessary changes, and plans for system evolution.
• Different types of software include program software, business process management, customer relationship management, and productivity software.
• Bespoke software is customized to a specific company's needs, but development is time-consuming and expensive.
• Anti-virus software monitors computer systems for virus infections using unique signatures and quarantines infected files.
• Backup methods include full, incremental, differential, and grandfather-father-son backup, each with advantages and disadvantages.
• Disaster recovery plans include a recovery site, a data restoration procedure, recovery time and point objectives, regular testing and verification, and employee training.