Systems Integration IT224: Data, Systems, SDLC

• Systems Integration & Architecture 1 (IT224) involves understanding user needs and developing solutions using methodologies, tools, and techniques.
• Roles include systems analysts, users, and developers, with development approaches like SDLC, Agile, and Object-Oriented Design.

Data vs. Information

• Data consists of raw facts like sales numbers.
• Information is processed data, such as a sales trend report.
• Types of information include Descriptive (what), Diagnostic (why), Predictive (what's next), and Prescriptive (what to do).

System Components

• Elements consist of data, hardware, software, and networks.
• An example is a car system including its engine, wheels, brakes, and transmission.

Types of Information Systems

• Examples include healthcare (patient records), banking (ATM, online banking), and university systems (admissions, grading).

Systems Development Life Cycle (SDLC)

• Consists of seven key steps that include:
• Identifying problems and defining project scope.
• Gathering user requirements to understand needs.
• Analyzing needs using Data Flow Diagrams (DFD) and models.
• Designing the system interface, security, and database.
• Developing and documenting code and documentation.
• Performing testing and maintenance for debugging and functionality.
• Implementing and evaluating training and deployment.

Agile Development

• An iterative approach with small, frequent updates.
• Key practices include sprint planning, stand-ups, and reviews.
• Stages include exploration, planning, iterative releases, production, and maintenance.

Object-Oriented Systems Analysis & Design (OOSAD)

• Objects represent real-world entities, such as a "Customer" with an ID, name, and orders.
• Key features are reusability, modularity, and UML diagrams.

System Integration (SI)

• Combines software, hardware, and networks into a functioning system.
• Methods include APIs for system communication, middleware to bridge applications, and data integration (merging sources).
• Types include legacy integration (old and new systems), COTS integration (pre-made software), and B2B integration (business-to-business linking).

Organizational Structures & Project Management

• Structures can be functional, divisional, matrix, or project-based.
• Project lifecycle includes concept, development, implementation, and support.
• Success factors include executive support, user involvement, and clear objectives.

Business Continuity & Testing

• BCP (Business Continuity Planning) involves data backup and disaster recovery.
• Testing includes unit testing (smallest components), integration testing (system interactions), and end-to-end testing (full workflow).