Activity 01
Discuss traditional and agile system analysis methodologies used in the industry by comparing and
contrasting the strengths and weaknesses of them. Critically evaluate two methodologies by referring
to the examples to support your answer.
Traditional System Analysis Methodology:
Traditional system analysis methodologies, also known as waterfall methodologies, have been widely
used in the industry for many years. In this approach, the entire software development process is divided
into sequential phases, and each phase must be completed before moving on to the next one. The main
steps typically include requirements gathering, system design, implementation, testing, and
maintenance. Here are some strengths and weaknesses of the traditional system analysis methodology:
Strengths:
1. Clear Documentation: Traditional methodologies emphasize extensive documentation, which helps in
maintaining a detailed record of each phase of the project. This can be beneficial for large, complex
projects with long development cycles, ensuring knowledge transfer and future maintenance.
2. Predictability: The sequential nature of traditional methodologies allows for a relatively predictable
timeline and budget estimation. Project managers can plan resources and timelines more accurately
since each phase has well-defined deliverables and milestones.
Weaknesses:
1. Rigidity: Once a phase is completed, it is challenging to go back and make changes. This rigidity can be
problematic if requirements change or if errors are discovered later in the process, leading to additional
costs and delays.
2. Limited Customer Involvement: Customer involvement is typically limited to the early stages, such as
requirements gathering. There is little room for customer feedback during later stages of development,
which may lead to a final product that does not fully meet the customer's needs.
Agile System Analysis Methodology:
Agile system analysis methodologies, such as Scrum or Kanban, have gained popularity in recent years,
especially in software development. Agile methodologies focus on incremental and iterative
development, where requirements and solutions evolve through collaboration between self-organizing
and cross-functional teams. Here are some strengths and weaknesses of the agile system analysis
methodology:
Strengths:
1. Flexibility: Agile methodologies embrace change and allow for frequent iterations, making it easier to
accommodate evolving requirements and adapt to changing market conditions.
2. Customer-Centric: Agile methodologies prioritize customer collaboration and feedback throughout the
development process. This ensures that the final product meets customer needs more effectively.
Weaknesses:
1. Lack of Comprehensive Documentation: Agile methodologies often prioritize working software over
extensive documentation. While this is beneficial for development speed, it may create challenges in
maintaining long-term records and knowledge transfer.
2. Project Management Complexity: Agile projects require active involvement and communication
among team members, stakeholders, and customers. Managing these interactions can become
challenging, especially in larger projects or with geographically distributed teams.
Critical Evaluation and Examples:
Let's compare and contrast two methodologies – Waterfall (traditional) and Scrum (agile):
1. Waterfall Methodology:
Example: Building a large enterprise-level accounting software for a client.
Strengths: For this type of project, where requirements are relatively stable and well-defined, the
waterfall methodology can be suitable. The sequential nature allows for detailed planning and
documentation, ensuring the project remains on track.
Weaknesses: If the client's requirements change during the development process (which is not
uncommon), it can be challenging to go back to earlier stages, resulting in increased costs and delays.
Additionally, the lack of customer involvement during later stages may lead to a product that does not
fully meet the client's evolving needs.
2. Scrum Methodology:
Example: Developing a new mobile app for a startup.
Strengths: In a dynamic and fast-changing market, Scrum's agile approach is ideal. Frequent iterations
and customer feedback allow the team to quickly adjust the app's features based on user preferences
and market demands. This flexibility can give the startup a competitive advantage.
Weaknesses: Scrum relies heavily on effective communication and collaboration within the team and
with stakeholders. If the team lacks proper coordination or if stakeholders are not actively engaged, the
project might suffer from delays or misalignments.
In conclusion, the choice between traditional and agile system analysis methodologies depends on the
specific project's characteristics, requirements stability, and customer involvement. Traditional
methodologies can be suitable for large, stable projects with well-defined requirements, while agile
methodologies are more appropriate for dynamic projects where flexibility and frequent customer
feedback are crucial for success. Ultimately, a hybrid approach that combines the strengths of both
methodologies may be the most effective solution in certain scenarios.