Applications Solutions Analysis

Here the current system is analysed in great detail to determine the requirements of the system and its users.

Various techniques such as interviews, questionnaires, observation and fact gathering are used to collect information about the current system. Previous reports and existing documents are also a useful source of information. Once the information is gathered structured methodologies can be used to analyse the information.

• The purpose of using a structured methodology is for the following reasons:
  • They structure a project into small, well-defined activities
  • Specify the sequence and interaction of these activities;
• They use diagrammatic and other modelling techniques to give a more precise (structured) definition that is understandable by both users and developers.

Structured analysis provides clear requirements statement that everyone can understand and is a firm foundation for subsequent design and implementation. Part of the problem with a systems analyst just asking 'the right questions' is that it is often difficult for a technical person to describe the system concepts back to the user in terms the user can understand. Structured methods generally include the use of easily understood, non-technical diagrammatic techniques. It is important that these diagrams do not contain computer jargon and technical detail that the user won't understand and does not need to understand.