Chapter 6 - Moving Into Design

Design Phase

Determines how the new system will operate using requirements gathered during analysis to create a system blueprint.

Purpose of Analysis Phase

Figure out what the business needs.

Purpose of Design Phase

Figure out how to build the system.

System Specification

Final deliverable of design phase containing all design documents for approval.

Business vs System Requirements

Business requirements explain why the system is built; system requirements explain how it will be built.

System Requirements

Technical details that form the blueprint of the system.

System Design

Process of determining overall system architecture including hardware, software, people, and communication.

Redesigned Workflows and Procedures

Updated processes included in the system and communicated through training and user documentation.

Alternative Matrix

Tool used to compare different system solutions in the design phase.

Architecture Design

Defines system structure and converts nonfunctional requirements like performance and security into system design.

Hardware and Software Specification

Document describing required hardware and software for the system.

Interface Design

Design of system inputs, outputs, and navigation flow.

Physical Process Model

Shows how system processes operate in reality and supports system functionality.

Program Specifications

Detailed instructions for programmers to build the system.

Physical Data Model

Defines how data is stored physically in the system.

CRUD Matrix

Tool showing Create, Read, Update, Delete relationships between processes and data.

Data Storage Design

Specifies how and where data will be stored in the system.

Custom Development

Building a system from scratch with full control and flexibility.

Custom Development Advantages

Allows customization, builds internal skills, and solves unique problems.

Custom Development Disadvantages

Time-consuming, requires skilled team, risk of failure, and existing workload issues.

Packaged Software

Pre-built software that organizations can purchase or license.

ERP Systems

Integrated systems that automate multiple business processes (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Infor).

Packaged Software Limitation

May not fully match business needs and requires adaptation.

Workaround

Custom add-on created to extend packaged software functionality; not supported by vendors.

Systems Integration

Combining packaged software, legacy systems, and new software into one system.

Systems Integration Challenge

Difficulty in making different systems communicate and share data properly.

Outsourcing

Hiring external vendors to develop or provide systems.

Outsourcing Advantages

Lower cost, faster setup, reduced need for in-house staff and infrastructure.

Outsourcing Risks

Loss of control, data security risks, and reduced internal skill development.

Outsourcing Risk Management

Understand requirements and choose reliable vendors with proven track records.