Sep
10
Written by:
michael
9/10/2010 1:35 PM
Although each project is different, you should consider some basic guidelines as you build an information system.
Planning
Stick to an overall development plan. If you use the SDLC as a framework for systems development, complete the phases in sequence. If you use an O-O methodology, follow a logical series of steps as you define the components.
Involve the Users Throughout the Development Process
Ensure that users involved in the developments process, especially when identifying and modeling system requirements. Modeling and prototyping can help you understand user needs and develop a better system.
Listening Is Very Important
Listen carefully! The best system is the one that meets user’s needs most effectively. When you interact with users, you must put aside any preconceived notions and listen closely to what they are saying to you.
Use Project Management Tools to Identify Tasks and Milestones
Identify all project tasks and major milestone for project review and assessment. Also establish interim checkpoints between major milestones to ensure that the project remains on schedule. Regardless of the development methodology, the system analyst must keep the project on track and avoid surprises. Create a reasonable number of checkpoints – too many can be burdensome, but too few will not provide adequate control. An example of a checkpoint might be the completion on interviews conducted during a preliminary investigation.
Remain Flexible
Be flexible within the framework of your plan. System development is a dynamic process, and overlap often exists between the phases of systems planning, analysis, design, and implementation. For example, when you investigate a systems request, you begin a fact-finding process that often carries over into the next phase. Similarly, you often start building process models before fact-finding is complete. He ability to overlap phases is especially important when you are working on a system that must be developed rapidly.
Develop Accurate Cost and Benefit Information
Provide accurate and reliable cost and benefit information. Managers need to know the cost of developing and operating a system. At the start of each phase, you must provide specific estimates.