(Podcast) System Analysis and Design

Episode 2 explains the methodology, model, tools and techniques that can be used to develop information systems. Detailed explanations of system development life cycle (SDLC) methodology with five main phases, each with certain objectives and deliverables, are also presented. Finally, alternative approaches for system development are discussed.

Episode 5 focuses on the systemÊs process and its logical aspects. In this topic, you will be briefed on process modelling

Episode 6 focuses on the system design phase. The initial part of the design phase involves the logical diagrams of the analysis phase into the physical diagrams that explain how the system will be built and all the documentation and diagrams becoming the inputs to the steps of the design phase are discussed.

Episode 7 focuses on architecture design which involves four main functions: data storage, data access logic, application logic and presentation logic. Depending on the architecture, the four functions are performed on a server, on a client or divided between the server and the client. This episode discusses server and client characteristics and how each design alternative handles system functions.

Episode 8 describes user interface design in which the users interact. It includes the screen displays that provide navigation through the system, the screens and forms that capture data and the reports that the system produces (whether on paper, on the Web or via some other media). This episode also introduces the basic principles and processes of interface design and discusses how to design the interface structure and standards.

Episode 9 explains the development and implementation activities. Applications are built through the development phase which has four components which are design, coding, testing and documentation. Designing a program with structured chart approach is presented in great detail in this episode. Finally this episode ends with a detailed discussion of application testing and documentation.

Episode 10 revolves around activities involved in transitioning to a new system which include installation, training and evaluation. The transition from the old business processes and computer programs to the new business processes and computer programs will be facilitated by ensuring that a number of business, technical and people issues are addressed. This episode explains in detail a number of ways to install the new system. The aspect of user training will be adequately addressed in this episode because every new system requires some familiarisation before it is fully accepted by users. This episode ends with data conversion issues and system evaluation.

Episode 1 describes the goal of systems analysis and design which is to improve organisational systems. This episode addresses business modelling process, information system components and categories. Types of users in information systems are also explained.

Episode 3 begins with discussion on the systems analyst's role in managing a system development project. This episode explains how a project begins, factors that lead to information system request and how initial investigation is performed. At the end of this episode, an investigation report is produced and presented to the management, before moving into the next phase of development.

Episode 4 explains two of the most important skills in systems analysis which are fact-finding, a function to identify system requirements, and business process modelling based on the system requirements. In this episode, you will develop skills in fact-finding and investigation. Finally a few methods of determining system requirement are discussed.