Systems Analysis and Design - Level 4

Aim: The aim of this unit is to develop learners' awareness of system analysis and design in an organisational context. The unit introduces various techniques used within systems analysis and design and the methodologies used in the system development process.

Learning Outcome 1: Understand the principles of systems analysis and design.
Learning Outcome 2. Understand system design methodologies and modelling.
Learning Outcome 3. Understand human computer interface (HCI).
Learning Outcome 4. Be able to produce a system design using modelling techniques.

Unit - Systems Analysis and Design

Scenario
You are one of several junior analysts at I P&M who have joined a new team whose members have been brought together to carry out systems analysis and design for several ongoing projects and client specifications.

As part of the group you have been asked, by the senior analyst, to explain your perceptions of systems analysis and design so that an agreed approach can be identified.

Assignment Brief

Part 1
Write a report In which you:
• Explain how systems analysis and design contribute to the software development life cycle.
• Describe the components of systems analysis.
• Analyse different approaches to system analysis and design.
• Evaluate system design requirements.
• Explain the importance of each stage in traditional software lifecycle approaches.
• Evaluate software development lifecycle models.
• Explain hard and soft system methodologies.

Part 2
Write a report In which you:
• Explain types of information systems - provide examples.
• Evaluate how the functionality of information systems varies between different information systems.
• Explain system design concepts with examples.
• Evaluate different system design methodologies.

Scenario
You have been asked, by the senior analyst, to explain your perceptions about HCI and present these to your group.

Assignment Brief and Guidance

Your presentation must:
• Explain the principles of HCI
• Explain how HCI improves the user experience of a system
• Explain the considerations to make in relation to HCI when designing a system
• Evaluate HCI methodologies

Scenario
An online delivery business needs a new database system.
The current database system is outdated, and staff have reverted to semi-manual systems. Deliveries are being delayed or, worse, completely missed.
You have been employed by the business to investigate the requirement and design a system to meet these needs.
You will need to investigate and document the system requirement and then produce detailed design documentation.

It is expected that learners will undertake an actual systems analysis and design activity. It is not expected, however, that learners will create the system or test it as part of this unit.

Be able to produce a system design using modelling techniques.

This is a practical activity, involving the design and development of a database to fulfil identified client requirements.

For the new database system you are required to:
• Create a system design document using appropriate modelling techniques
• Produce a model of a software system.
• Produce a security and control design.

You need to provide evidence on how a basic solution would be implemented for the new database and explain any constraints on the system design.

Referencing: Harvard referencing style.