Software Engineering - System Analysis and Design

Flashcards covering key concepts and definitions from the lecture notes on System Analysis and Design in Software Engineering.

What is System Analysis and Design (SAD)?

A critical process in software development focused on understanding organizational needs, identifying system requirements, and designing solutions.

Why is System Analysis and Design important?

It improves business processes, ensures the product meets user needs, reduces project failure risks, and enhances communication among stakeholders.

What are the key stages in System Analysis and Design?

Feasibility Study, System Analysis, System Design, Implementation, Maintenance and Evaluation.

What is a feasibility study?

An assessment of the practicality of a proposed solution.

Who is a Systems Analyst?

A person who identifies business needs and translates them into system requirements.

What are Data Flow Diagrams (DFD)?

Visual representations that show data movement and system processes.

What is the Waterfall Model?

A sequential, linear development process in system development.

What are some challenges in System Analysis and Design?

Complex requirements, communication barriers, budget and time constraints, and system integration.

What is a Planning System?

A dynamic system that balances income and expenses and consists of capabilities working together.

What is the purpose of a Planning System?

To ensure a viable plan and budget aligning with organizational objectives.

What are systemic measurable variables?

Metrics like positive cash flow, expected customer sales, adequate funding, and cost monitoring.

What are core functions of a Planning System?

Managing financial assets, forecasting people and costs, and approving plans.

What is the System Development Life Cycle (SDLC)?

A structured methodology used in system development to ensure high-quality software solutions.

What are the phases of the SDLC?

Planning, Analysis, Design, Implementation, Testing, Deployment, and Maintenance.

What happens during the planning phase of the SDLC?

Define project objectives, conduct feasibility analysis, and develop a project plan.

What is the analysis phase of the SDLC?

Collecting and documenting user requirements and ensuring functional and non-functional requirements are defined.

What occurs during the design phase of the SDLC?

Creating system architecture, design specifications, and database planning.

What does the implementation phase entail?

The conversion of design into actual software through coding.

What is the purpose of the testing phase in the SDLC?

To identify bugs, validate functionality, and ensure system reliability.

What is involved in the deployment phase of the SDLC?

Releasing the software for use and conducting user training.

What entails the maintenance phase of the SDLC?

Performing updates, bug fixes, and enhancements based on user feedback.

What is System Analysis?

The process of studying a system to analyze, model, and identify alternatives.

Why perform System Analysis?

To improve system efficiency, identify issues, ensure user requirements are met, and support decision-making.

What are traditional methodologies in System Analysis?

Structured techniques like data flow diagrams.

What is the importance of feasibility analysis in System Analysis?

To assess a system's practicality based on cost, impact, and resources.

What are UI Mockups used for?

To visualize user interactions and improve design.

What are the significant methods of System Design?

Architectural Design, Logical Design, and Physical Design.

What does the Top-Down Approach entail in System Design?

Starts with the overall system and breaks it into smaller components.

What is UML (Unified Modeling Language)?

A graphical notation for illustrating software structure and behavior.

What should be considered during Solution Design?

Custom development vs. COTS software and system specifications.

What is a build/buy analysis?

A determination of whether to build a custom solution or purchase an off-the-shelf solution.

What is required for preparing the critical design review package?

Final system design documentation submitted for review to evaluate compliance and identify risks.

What is the goal of System Analysis concerning User Experience?

To ensure that systems are user-friendly and efficient.

How does System Design ensure alignment with requirements?

By defining system elements like modules, architecture, and interfaces in a structured manner.

What are Entity-Relationship Diagrams used for?

To represent data relationships in a system.

What is the difference between logical design and physical design?

Logical design focuses on data flow and outputs, while physical design specifies data storage and processing mechanisms.