Phase 5 -  Implementation

In this phase the new information system is installed, and people are trained to use it.  This phase require two steps:

• Converting from the old system to the new system.
• Training people to use the new system

Converting to the New System

There are four types of conversions that can be used to implement a new system:

1. Direct Approach
   1. The old system is abandoned and the new system is started.
   2. This can be risky because the old system will no longer be available to fall back on.
         
2. Parallel Approach
   1. The old and new systems are operated side by side until new one is shown reliable.
   2. This is low-risk.
   3. If new system fails, the old system can still be used to keep going.
         
3. Pilot Approach
   1. The new system is tried out, first in one part of the organization.
   2. Then it is tried throughout the rest of the organization.
   3. It is less expensive than the parallel approach but somewhat riskier.
   4. Risks may be controlled.
   5. Difficulties will not affect the entire organization.
         
4. Phased Approach
   1. The new system is implemented gradually over a period of time.
   2. This is the least risky approach.
   3. It is more expensive to implement than others because it is done slowly.

Training

1. Training people is an important but commonly overlooked activity of the implementation stage.
2. Some training may begin early, even before equipment is delivered.
3. This may make adjusting to the new environment easier for the users.

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