Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives At the completion of this subject students should know fundamental concepts relevant to the organisational context of systems development and some influential systems development methodologies; understand the organisational issues and human factors relevant to the practice of systems analysis; be able to evaluate and compare particular systems development methodologies; and appreciate the usefulness and appropriateness of particular approaches to systems development.
Synopsis This subject provides students with an understanding of a range of systems development methodologies. Systems analysis and its role in the systems development process are considered, as well as the organisational context of systems development. Topics include: evolution of systems development methodologies; frameworks for describing, comparing and evaluating methodologies; the introduction of new information systems, technologies and methodologies; effects of CASE, prototyping, user participation and reuse on systems development; requirements acquisition techniques. Specific methodologies: structured analysis, information engineering, soft systems methodology (SSM), effective technical and human implementation of computer-based systems (ETHICS), structured systems analysis and design method (SSADM), information systems work and analysis of changes (ISAC), multiview, object-oriented approaches.
Assessment Written: 50% + Examination (2 hours): 50%