Introduction to Information Systems
Information systems help businesses improve productivity and competitiveness.
Success depends on solid systems analysis and understanding business needs.
Key Terms
Systems Analysis: Understand system goals and how to achieve them.
Systems Design: Specify how the system will be physically implemented.
Systems Analyst: Solves business problems using IT.
Skills of a Systems Analyst
IT and programming knowledge
Business understanding
Logical problem-solving
Communication and people skills
System improvement mindset
Problem-Solving Steps (Analyst Approach)
1. Identify and understand the problem
2. Define requirements
3. Explore alternative solutions
4. Detail chosen solution
5. Solve the problem
6. Monitor results for accuracy
Concept of a System
A system = interrelated components with a purpose.
Examples:
o Human body (organs)
o Computer system (hardware + software)
Information System (IS):
Collects, processes, stores, and delivers data.
Components: Hardware, software, data, people, procedures, networks.
Subsystem:
A smaller unit within a system (e.g., Academic or Library subsystem in a School IS).
Functional Decomposition: Dividing systems into subsystems.
Types of Information Systems
1. Transaction Processing Systems
2. Management Information Systems
3. Decision Support Systems
4. Executive Information Systems
Modern types:
Data Warehouses
ERP
Expert Systems
GIS, GloIS
Office Automation
System Development Life Cycle (SDLC)
Definition: Project management model that structures system development into stages.
Objectives: Ensure quality, strong controls, and productivity.
SDLC Stages:
a. Preliminary Study
b. Feasibility Study
c. Investigative Study
d. System Analysis
e. System Design
f. Implementation
g. Maintenance
h. Review
Stage Descriptions (brief):
Preliminary Study: Propose objectives and expected benefits
Feasibility: Assess technical and cost viability
Investigative Study: Collect operational data
Analysis: Understand issues and suggest improvements
Design: Plan new system in detail
Implementation: Deploy and train users
Maintenance: Fix issues and adapt system
Review: Evaluate performance and satisfaction
SDLC Pros:
Easy to use and manage
Clear phases and guidelines
Supports resource allocation
Promotes consistency and reduces costs
SDLC Cons:
Inflexible to changes
Late delivery of working product
Risky for complex/long-term projects
Can cause documentation overload
Time-consuming
Assignment (Compulsory)
1. Define the system development cycle
2. List SDLC stages
3. Describe the first SDLC stage
4. Draw a diagram of SDLC
Let me know if you'd like this formatted for slides, handouts, or a study guide!
You said:
Define the system development cycle List SDLC stages Describe the first SDLC stage Draw a
diagram of SDLC
ChatGPT said:
Here are the concise answers to your assignment:
1. Define the System Development Life Cycle (SDLC)
The System Development Life Cycle (SDLC) is a structured process used in project
management to develop information systems. It breaks down system development into distinct
phases, ensuring effective planning, design, implementation, and maintenance. Its goal is to
deliver high-quality systems with efficient resource use and minimal risk.
2. List the Stages of the SDLC
The main stages of the System Development Life Cycle are:
a. Preliminary Study
b. Feasibility Study
c. Investigative Study
d. System Analysis
e. System Design
f. Implementation
g. Maintenance
h. Review
3. Describe the First SDLC Stage (Preliminary Study)
The Preliminary Study is the first stage in the SDLC. It involves identifying the business
problem, understanding the objectives, and preparing a system proposal. This includes defining
the problem, outlining the goals, listing constraints, and identifying expected benefits. It sets the
foundation for deciding whether to proceed with the system development.
4. Diagram of SDLC
Here's a simple text-based diagram:
csharp
CopyEdit
[Preliminary Study]
↓
[Feasibility Study]
↓
[Investigative Study]
↓
[System Analysis]
↓
[System Design]
↓
[Implementation]
↓
[Maintenance]
↓
[Review]
Let me know if you’d like this as a visual image or flowchart!
You said:
flowchart
ChatGPT said:
You said:
define a system
2/2
ChatGPT said:
Definition of a System
A system is a set of interrelated components working together to achieve a common goal or
purpose. Each component (or subsystem) has a specific role, and the entire system operates as a
unified whole.
Examples of Systems:
Human Body: Organs (heart, lungs, brain) work together to sustain life.
Computer System: Includes hardware (e.g., CPU, keyboard), software, input/output, and
data storage.
School System: Made up of subsystems like academics, administration, library, and
hostel management.
Key Characteristics of a System:
Components: Individual parts that make up the system.
Interdependence: Each component depends on others.
Goal-oriented: Designed to achieve a specific purpose.
Input–Process–Output: Receives inputs, processes them, and produces outputs.
Boundaries: Defines what is inside and outside the system.
