Implementation

The Role of Implementation in the Systems Life Cycle

• Once the system has passed all the tests, it moves on to the implementation stage. This stage involves the actual installation or deployment of the new system.
• The new software application or system replaces the old system, a task often done in a phased manner to minimise disruptions.
• User training is a crucial part of the implementation stage. Users are trained to operate and manage the new system effectively.
• Implementation also involves setting up the required operational hardware and software, ensuring they are properly configured and interact correctly.
• During this step, the data migration occurs, which represents the transferring of data from the old system to the new one.

Key Elements of Implementation

• Implementation involves both technical tasks (like environment setup) and change management tasks (like training and transition support).
• Parallel running is sometimes used during implementation. For a period of time, both the old and new systems are run simultaneously for comparison and validation.
• Contingency planning plays a crucial role during implementation. These plans are meant to handle any potential failures during the transition.
• During and after the implementation, monitoring and review mechanisms are put in place to ensure the system is performing as expected.
• The go-live date typically marks the end of the implementation phase, when the new system is fully functional and in use.

The Role of Evaluation in the Systems Life Cycle

• After implementation, a system evaluation is conducted to assess the system’s performance, efficiency, and usability.
• The aim of the evaluation is to identify any areas that may need adjustment or improvement.
• The evaluation process might raise the need for further updates or enhancements to the system. This might just be the start of a new Systems Life Cycle.

Key Elements of Evaluation

• Data collected during operation is analysed to assess system effectiveness against the original requirements and objectives.
• The feedback from users is particularly important for the evaluation. It reveals first-hand experiences of those who interact daily with the new system.
• The success or failure of a system is usually measured through various criteria and metrics, like reliability, usability, security, and efficiency.
• System audit is also part of the evaluation phase. It verifies if all system specifications set during the planning and analysis stage have been delivered.
• The final documentation includes an evaluation report, which details the results of this assessment.