Title: Instructor's Perspective - Module 7
Course: CIS2321 Information Systems > Section: Module 7 - Development Strategies

Module 7: Development Strategies

This module covers the system development strategies, the preparation and presentation of the system requirements document, and transition to the systems design phase.

Software as a Service (SaaS) has created new software acquisition options. Systems analysts should consider Web-based development environments and various outsourcing options, including application service providers and Internet business services when developing a system. Web 2.0 is fueling the expansion of information sharing, user collaboration, and social-networking applications. Cloud computing describes an online software and data environment that can be utilized like a local software system. In-house systems that are built by the organization are an alternative to purchase (and possibly customize) commercially available software packages from a software vendor.

Commercial software packages can be attractive alternatives to developing an inhouse system because a package generally costs less, takes less time to implement, has a proven track record, and is upgraded frequently. In-house development might be the best choice when standard software packages do not meet business needs. However, in-house development requires much more involvement than outsourcing or choosing a commercial package. You will deliver the system requirements document after the systems analysis phase. It details all system requirements, recommends solutions, and provides cost and time estimates for development. The system requirements document is the source for the management presentation. It allows the business to decide if it should develop an in-house system, modify the current system, purchase or customize a software package, perform additional systems analysis work, or stop all further work.

Attachments

- Mod7_InstructorPerspective.pdf