August 1999
SD206 : SYSTEMS DESIGN

QUESTION 5

Total Marks: 20 Marks

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(a) List two basic principles which should be followed by systems analysts and programmers during implementation. [2]
  • Avoid disrupting the day-to-day business activities during the implementation process.
  • Do not require excessive overtime work during implementation.
  • Inform management of all changes in the implementation method or time schedule.
  • Do not give demanding orders.

 
(b) List two guidelines for establishing training. [2]
  • Establish measurable objectives.
  • Use appropriate training methods.
  • Select suitable training sites.
  • Employ understandable training materials.

 
(c) (i) Define, using an example, the term modular conversion.

(ii) Give two advantages of modular conversion.

 [2]

[2]
(i) Modular conversion involves the implementation of a system on a "piecemeal" basis.

(ii)

  • The risk of a system's failure is localised.
  • The problems identified can be corrected before further implementation is attempted.
  • Other operating personnel can be trained in a 'live' environment before the system is implemented at their location.

 
(d) (i) Describe, using an example, how phase-in conversion differs from modular conversion.

(ii) Give one advantage of the phase-in approach.

 [2]

[1]
(i) Phase-in conversion differs from modular conversion in that the system is segmented, rather than the organisation (1 mark).

(ii)

  • The rate of change in a given organisation can be minimised.
  • Data processing resources can be acquired gradually over an extended period of time.

 
(e) (i) Define the term direct conversion.

(ii) Describe three situations in which direct conversion might be applied.

(iii) What is the primary advantage of the direct conversion approach?

(iv) Describe a modification to the direct conversion approach which can minimize the risk of failure.

 [1]

[3]

[1]

[2]
(i) Direct conversion involves implementing the new system and discontinuing the old system immediately.

(ii)

  • When the system is not replacing another system.
  • When the old system has absolutely no value.
  • When the new system is either very simple or very small.
  • When the design of the new system is drastically different from that of the old one.

(iii) The primary advantage of this approach is that it is relatively inexpensive.

(iv) Use a trial conversion. Instead of using the new system, jobs are run on copies of files; outputs can be studied to ensure that everything is working correctly.

 
(f) (i) Define the term parallel conversion.

(ii) List one disadvantage of the parallel conversion approach.

 [1]

[1]
(i) Parallel conversion involves both the old and new systems operating simultaneously for a given period of time(1 mark).

(ii) There are high cost associated with duplication.