BDIT - session 14

What is the significance of digital innovation and developing information systems and digital platforms?

Digital innovation is crucial because digital platforms drive modern business transformation. They require well-developed information systems that are built through meticulous planning, user-centric design, and robust technology choices. Poor execution can lead to high financial and reputational risks, as seen in examples like Healthcare.gov, while strong execution can transform in-house solutions into global market leaders like AWS.

What does “balancing time, cost, and quality” in development mean?

It refers to managing the Project Triangle, where projects must balance duration (time), available resources (cost), and the final level of functionality or performance (quality). The adage “Fast, Good, Cheap – Pick Two” summarizes the inherent trade-offs, as fixing one parameter can affect the others.

What is the Project Triangle and why is it important in development projects?

The Project Triangle (also known as the Engineering or Design Triangle) consists of time, cost, and quality. It illustrates that increasing focus on one element typically requires adjustments to the others, impacting the overall success and feasibility of a project.

What characterizes the Waterfall methodology?

The Waterfall model is a linear, sequential approach divided into clear phases (Planning/Requirements, System Design, Development/Implementation, Testing, and Deployment). Each phase must be completed before moving to the next, making it suitable for projects with well-defined requirements but less adaptable to change.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of the Waterfall model?

A:
Advantages:

• Clear, structured phases that ensure documentation and process clarity

• Suitable for large teams and projects with stable requirements

Disadvantages:

• Inflexible to changes once a phase is completed

• Late testing can lead to costly errors and require rework if issues are found near completion

How is the Agile methodology structured and what are its core principles?

Agile is an iterative and incremental approach that emphasizes flexibility, continuous feedback, and customer involvement. It uses short cycles or sprints to develop parts of the product, enabling teams to adapt rapidly to changes and refine the product continuously based on user feedback.

What are the main advantages and disadvantages of Agile?

A:
Advantages:

• High customer satisfaction through continuous collaboration

• Flexibility to adapt to changes and early detection of issues via regular testing

• Reduced risk by developing in short, incremental cycles

Disadvantages:

• Requires intensive customer involvement and clear communication

• Can lead to scope creep due to changing requirements

• May present challenges in predicting timelines and costs due to its inherent adaptability

What roles and processes are key in the Scrum framework?

Scrum involves defined roles such as the Scrum Master (who removes obstacles), the Product Owner (who prioritizes customer needs), and the Development Team (which builds the product). It works in time-boxed sprints (2-4 weeks) followed by a sprint review and retrospective to ensure continuous improvement

What is the focus of the Lean methodology in development?

Lean emphasizes eliminating waste and delivering maximum customer value through efficient processes. It is often applied in environments where continuous improvement and resource optimization are key, making it a strong complement or alternative to Agile practices.

How do Scrum and Lean methodologies compare?

Both methodologies aim to improve efficiency and deliver customer value. Scrum offers clear roles and structured sprints ideal for rapid, iterative development, while Lean focuses on waste reduction and overall efficiency. Many organizations use either or combine elements of both based on project demands.

What are some common challenges in information systems development?

Challenges include evolving and ambiguous requirements, technical issues like integration and scalability, human factors such as communication gaps and skill shortages, and organizational challenges like budget constraints and resistance to change. These can significantly impact project timelines and outcomes.

What are Hybrid Methodologies in IS development?

Hybrid methodologies combine elements of Waterfall and Agile approaches to leverage the predictability of structured planning with the flexibility needed for adapting to changes. They are ideal for projects that require both initial stability and later-stage adaptability.

Can you provide examples of Hybrid Methodologies and their best-use scenarios?

• Agile-Waterfall Hybrid: Starts with a structured Waterfall phase for requirements and design, followed by Agile cycles for development and testing—suited for large projects with fixed initial requirements and later dynamic needs.

• Lean-Agile Hybrid: Integrates Lean's efficiency and waste reduction with Agile’s iterative development, best for projects that need optimized resource use along with adaptability.

What is the purpose of user story mapping and prioritization in Agile?

User story mapping organizes and prioritizes requirements by breaking down features into user stories. It helps teams identify the Minimum Viable Product (MVP), understand user needs clearly, and plan iterative releases that focus on delivering the most essential functionalities first.

What key factors contribute to the success of a digital platform or app?

Success factors include a clear understanding of user needs, an iterative and flexible development approach, a robust technical foundation (scalable, secure, and reliable), and a long-term vision with continuous innovation to keep up with evolving market demands.