1.2 | System Design Basics

Software

The programs and operating information used by a computer system.

Hardware

the physical components of a computer system.

Peripheral

Any hardware device connected to a computer that provides input, output, or storage.

Network

A collection of computers and devices connected together to share resources and communicate.

Human Resource

People involved in a system, including users, developers, and administrators.

Stakeholder

Any person or group with an interest in or affected by a system

The System Design Cycle

A structured process for designing, implementing, and evaluating a system.

“Identifying the problem → analysis → design → implementation → testing → evaluation → maintenance”

Prototype

An early working model of a system used to test ideas, gather feedback, and refine requirements before full development.

User Acceptance Testing

Testing carried out by the end users to verify the system meets their needs and requirements before it goes live.

Debugging

The process of finding and fixing errors (bugs) in a program's code.

Alpha Testing

Testing carried out internally by the development team before release, to identify bugs in a controlled environment.

Beta Test

Testing carried out by a limited group of real end users outside the development team, before the full public release, to identify remaining issues in real-world conditions

Direct Changeover

The old system is switched off and the new system is switched on immediately on the same day. High risk but low cost.

Phased Conversion

The new system is introduced gradually, one module or section at a time, replacing parts of the old system incrementally.

Pilot Running

Both the old and new systems run simultaneously for a period of time. Safest method but most expensive, as both must be maintained at once.

User Documentation

Written guides and manuals provided to users to help them understand and operate the system (e.g. user manuals, help files, FAQs).

User Training

The process of teaching users how to use a new system effectively. Methods include online tutorials, workshops, and on-the-job training.

Usability

The measure of how easy and intuitive a system is for its intended users to use effectively, efficiently, and with satisfaction.

Legacy System

Old method, computer system or technology that is outdated. Hard to come by or find parts for.

Data Migration

Moving data between systems. Most commonly used for moving data from an old to new system.

[Data Migration Issue] Data Loss

The loss of data cause of network, hardware or corruption issues.

[Data Migration Issue] Data Incompatibility

When the source and destination systems have different data formats.

[Data Migration Issue] Security Risks

Unauthorized access of data.

Host System Remotely

Cost Effective, allowing client to not have their own hardware and infrastructure. Less control over system.

Host System Directly

Costly, allowing client to have more control and customization, but requiring their own infrastructure.

Technical Documentation

Documentation that describes how a product or service operates, and how to install.

User Documentation

Documentation for a product or a service provided to the end users for assistance.

User Training