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CODE : SAD 190102

Updated August 9th, 2006
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INTRODUCTION

New computer systems frequently replace existing manual systems. A new system often needs to be customized and expanded as the needs of an enterprise changes. After some time the system itself may be replaced.

This lecture focuses on:

1. What is systems analysis
2. Reasons for systems analysis
3. The Systems Analyst
4. Responsibilities of the analyst
5. When to choose a new system
6. System justification
7. Feasibility study

Systems Analysis

Systems analysis is the methodical study of a system, its current and future required objectives and procedures in order to form a basis for systems design.

FOCUS :

1. What is systems analysis
2. The roll of the analyst
3. The systems development life cycle

REASONS FOR SYSTEM ANALYSIS

An analysis may be required because of a need to solve a problem. A report may be late or the information it contains inaccurate. There may be new information requirements. Management may require additional information for which new reports have to be generated or existing reports modified. An analysis may also be required as a means of incorporating new technology into a system or to make broad system improvements to improve its efficiency.

THE SYSTEMS ANALYST

The analyst must be guided by terms of reference drawn up by a steering committee or by the line manger requesting the investigation.

The analyst must have written terms of reference. If necessary he should draw it up himself and have it approved by the person requesting the study

It is the task of the systems analyst to computerize a firm's information system or improve an existing system.

Responsibilities of the analyst :

1. Assisting Users determine information needs
2. Gathering facts about the existing system
3. Analyzing facts to determine effectiveness.
4. Recommending changes.
5. Designing new systems.

Skills of the analyst :

1. Excellent communication skills ( oral and written )
2. Comprehensive knowledge of data-processing methods.
3. Sound knowledge of hardware.
4. Familiarity with available programming languages
5. Ability to plan and organize work
6. Ability to work with others as a team.
7. General knowledge of the firm, its goals, objectives, products and services.
8. A high degree of creativity.

NEW SYSTEM SELECTION

A NEW SYSTEM

Management initiates the selection of a new system by first having a preliminary study conducted to establish whether there is a need for a new system and what the objectives of the new system would be.

FEASIBILITY STUDY

An initial feasibility study maybe conducted as a forerunner to a detailed feasibility study. This study is usually done by a team of senior staff members but individuals might be given the task in the case of smaller projects and where the individual has detailed knowledge of the organisation.

The feasibility study ends with a report to the project steering committee which states whether the hoped-for benefits could be realised and at what cost.

SYSTEM JUSTIFICATION

A new system should be recommended only if it can be justified. An evaluation of cost and benefits along with other performance criteria is necessary before a new system can be proposed.

Test Yourself

1. Define systems analyst and state the first step of systems analysis.
2. What are the responsibilitis of an analyst and why are they needed?
3. What exactly is systems analysis?
4. Should analyst work with oral terms of reference?

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