Systems Analysis Techniques

Systems Analysis Techniques

Fact-Finding Techniques

• Interviews involve questioning stakeholders directly to gather valuable information about the system’s requirements.
• Questionnaires offer a structured approach to collecting data from a large group of users or stakeholders.
• Observation is an unobtrusive way of gathering information by directly observing the activities of end users.
• Review of existing documents can provide essential information about the current system.
• Workshops and focus groups provide opportunities for open discussions and brainstorm sessions about the system’s requirements.

Modelling Techniques

• Data flow diagrams (DFD) show the flow of information within a system.
• Entity Relationship diagrams (ERD) illustrate the relationship between different entities in a database system.
• State Transition diagrams (STD) represent the behaviour of a system with changing states.
• Structure charts are hierarchical diagrams representing the structure of a system.
• Class diagrams provide a graphical overview of the object-oriented systems.

Feasibility Study Techniques

• Technical feasibility evaluates the possibility of developing the system with the current technology and skills.
• Economic feasibility analyses whether the benefits of a proposed system overweigh its costs.
• Operational feasibility assesses the extent to which the proposed system will integrate with the current operations.
• Legal feasibility examines any potential legal considerations associated with the system changes.
• Schedule feasibility considers whether the proposed system can be developed within the given timescale.

Cost Benefit Analysis

• Direct costs such as the expenses for acquiring new hardware or software.
• Indirect costs such as training expenses and maintenance fees.
• Tangible benefits include items such as cost savings or increased revenue.
• Intangible benefits are non-measurable benefits such as improved customer satisfaction.

Risk Analysis Techniques

• Risk Identification involves determining what potential risks exist that could negatively impact a proposed system.
• Risk Assessment involves analysing and prioritising risks based on their potential impact and likelihood of occurrence.
• Risk Mitigation includes strategies and plans for minimising the impact of identified risks.
• Monitoring and Control involves tracking identified risks, monitoring residual risks, identifying new risks, and executing risk mitigation plans.