Introduction to Systems Analysis and Design

The combination of hardware and software products and services that people use to manage, communicate and share information.

A step-by-step process for developing a high-quality information system --> Implementation of new systems.

It's a combination of technology, people, and data to provide support for business functions. Such as order processing, inventory control, human resources, accounting and more.

They plan, develop and maintain an information system. They document business processes, test hardware, design input screens, train users and plan e-commerce websites. They also have to act as "translators" because they talk and conduct meetings where they need to explain everything in layman terms for others to understand.

It's a st of related components that produces specific results.

A system that's vital to a company's operations. Ex. an order processing system (company can't do business without it).

True.

Basic facts that serve as the system's raw material.

Data that's been transformed into output that's valuable to users.

Hardware: physical components that make up a piece of technology. Ex. cables, servers, scanners.

Software: instructions (programs) that tell how hardware should work and produce the desired information or results.

Data: basic facts acting as raw material and stored in tables.

Processes: interprets data; so that it can be useful. "Describes the tasks and functions that users perform to achieve specific results. The building blocks of an information system..."

People: people who have an interest in an information system; stakeholders. These also include management and the users who interact with the system.

System software: manages the hardware components, which can include a single computer or a global network. Ex. operating system and a security software.

Application software: consists of programs that support day-to-day business functions and provide users with the information they need.

A data breach occurs when a hacker gains illegal access to a system and steal personal data.

Horizontal: a system that can be adapted for use in many different types of companies. Ex. Inventory system and payroll applications.

Vertical: a system is designed to meet the unique requirements of a specific business or industry, such as an online retailer, a medical practice or an auto dealership.

- rapidly increasing globalization

- technology integration for seamless information across a wide variety of devices

- rapid growth of cloud-based computing and software services

e-commerce (electronic commerce)

B2C (business-to-consumer): a commercial exchange between businesses and consumers done over the Internet

B2B (business-to-business): a commercial exchange between businesses, typically enabled by the Internet or electronic means.

EDI - Electronic data interchange.

Modeling produces a graphical representation of a concept or process that systems developers can analyze, test, and modify.

True; check p. 29.

An overview of a company's mission, functions, organization, products, services, customers and future direction.

Describes the information that a system must provide.

A specific set of transactions, events and results that can be described and documented.

It refers to information systems that support company-wide operation and data management requirements. It supports decision-making. Ex. Walmart's inventory control system, Boeing's production system and Hilton's Hotels' reservation system.

They're systems that provide cost-effective support for users and managers throughout the company. Ex A car rental company can use an ERP to forecast customer demand.

ERP systems generally impose an overall structure that might or might not match the way a company operates.

They process data generated by day-to-day business operations; allows processes to be done in big batches. Ex. customer order processing, accounts receivable, etc.

They are mission-critical because the enterprise can't function without them.

They provide job-related information support to users at all levels. They can analyze transactional data, generate information for management and control business processes.

A piece of technology that uses high-frequency radio waves to track objects.

Knowledge management systems use a large database called a knowledge base.

They can enter keywords or questions. This is because they use interference rules which are logical rules that identify data patterns and relationships.

Database: stores and organizes data.

Knowledge base: creates rules and contains data at a higher level and can analyze it.

Groupware enables data sharing between users.

Develop long-range plans called strategic plans. They define the company's overall mission and goals.

Middle managers: provide direction, necessary resources, and performance feedback to supervisors and team leaders. They focus on a somewhat shorter time frame, middle managers need more detailed information that top managers.

Knowledge workers: provide support for the organization's basic functions. Ex. SA, programmers, accountants, etc.

Supervisors: oversee operational employees and carry out day-to-day functions. They coordinate operational tasks and people, make necessary decisions, and ensure that the right tools, materials, and training are available.

Employees who rely on transaction processing systems to enter and receive data they need to perform their jobs. They occasionally handle tasks originally given to supervisors --> called empowerment. This gives employees more responsibility and accountability which improves employee motivation and increase customer satisfaction.

Systems planning: begins with a systems request (describes problems). The main purpose of this phase is to perform a preliminary investigation which will then perform a feasibility studies.

Systems analysis: the purpose is to build a logical model of the new system. The first step is requirements engineering and afterwards create a system requirements document.

Systems design: this phase is meant to create a physical model that satisfies all documented requirements for the system. A system design specification is presented to management for review and approval.

Systems implementation: new system is constructed. Final preparations include converting data to the new system, training users and performing the transition.

Systems security and support: IT staff maintains, enhances and protects the system.

Providers users with technical information, training, and productivity support. AKA help desk.