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(a)What is a system development methodology?[2 marks ]
A
system development methodology is a set of rules (1 mark)for dividing
the system development effort (1 mark)into a set of manageable tasks
(1 mark).
up to two marks for a good explanation [2 marks ]
(b)Many prepackaged methodologies are available.Why might a company
choose to develop,in-house,a methodology of their own?[2 marks ]
A
company might choose to develop,in-house,a methodology of their own
if the prepackaged methodologies did not suit their needs (1 mark),if
modifications to the prepackaged methodologies would take too long
or be too expensive (1 mark),if only a limited methodology is required
(1 mark),or if plenty of time was available (1 mark).
up to two marks for a good explanation [2 marks ]
(c)A good system development methodology should have the following
characteristics:
(i)discrete stages
(ii)stage-limited commitment
(iii)in-stage and end-stage reviews
(iv)generic task lists
Describe each of these characteristics in more detail,and explain
why it is
important.[8 marks ]
(i)discrete stages:a
series of stages distinguished by activities performed and completed
within the stage (1 mark)and by a specific end-product (1 mark), which
serves as input for the next stage (1 mark)
It is important as it means that the methodology can reduce the work
effort into smaller,sequential stages,each of which is more easily
managed.(1 mark)
(ii)stage-limited commitment:in terms of detailed costs and schedules
(1 mark),for the next stage only (1 mark).This is important if the
needs and the system are evolving (1 mark).Estimates can be reviewed
at the end of each stage (1 mark).
(iii)in-stage and end-stage reviews:progress is measured both during
a stage and at the end of a stage (1 mark);the developing product
is assessed against changing needs (1 mark);a product may be signed-off
officially at the end of a stage (1 mark);important in getting final
acceptance from customer (1 mark).
(iv)generic task lists:the methodology should develop task lists that
are not specific to the current product,but can apply equally well
to the development of other products (1 mark);this is important as
a consistent approach can be maintained (1 mark);there is less chance
of a task being forgotten at any stage (1 mark);the methodology can
be re-used (1 mark).
In each case,up to two marks for a good explanation.[8 marks ]
(d)Once a system development methodology has been adopted,how would
you ensure that it is used effectively ?[3marks ]
To
ensure that a methodology is used effectively :
•ensure that each major stage is associated with a major deliverable
•carry out tasks earlier if possible and safe
•hold weekly status meetings
•remember that the stages and tasks are for guidance only
•review costs and benefits at each stage
•review deliverables before making irreversible decisions that
a .ect the nextstage
•limitt eprojectlengt asfaraspossible
•check that all listed tasks remain relevant at the beginning
of each stage
one mark for each correct suggestion,to a maximum of three marks
[3 marks ]
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