Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives At the completion of this subject students should know about the systems development methodologies and the methods and techniques used by systems analysts in the development of common business systems; understand the function of systems analysis in defining user requirements and the role and function of the systems analyst in eliciting and documenting those requirements; be able to use appropriate methods and techniques to elicit and document requirements; and possess attitudes that facilitate communication with users.
Synopsis A systems perspective of organisations as a framework for the study of typical business information systems, eg inventory control, sales order entry, debtors etc. The systems development life cycle, identifying the role of the systems analyst and users and the tools and techniques for data- and process-modelling including entity relationship modelling, data collection, normalisation, data-flow diagrams, minispecs. Techniques of analysis and information gathering, presentation and documentation and the deliverables from systems analysis. Data-centred and process-centred systems development methodologies and their use of modelling techniques with a focus on quality assurance.
Assessment Examination: 50% + Practical work: 50%