IST Chapter 13

In-Class Discussion

Chapter 13: Acquiring Information Systems and Applications

1. Describe the four fundamental business decisions that organizations must make when acquiring information systems.

2. What are the four conversion methods?

3. Describe the tools that augment the traditional SDLC.

4. List the major steps of selection of a vendor and a software package.

Alejandra Guerrero 

Chpt 13 Discussion

COLLAPSE

窗体顶端

The four conversion methods are direct conversion, pilot conversion, phased conversion, and parallel conversion. In a direct conversion method, at a certain point in time, the old system is shut down while the new system is turn on. There is high risk involved as if there are issues with the new system then there is no support coming from the old system. Despite the risk, this method is the least expensive. In a pilot conversion, the new system is introduced in one part of the organization while the rest remain on the old system. This allows for the new system to run for x amount of time to ensure that it is working properly to which then will lead to implementation of the new system in other parts of the organization. A phased conversion introduces components of the new system in stages. New modules or components are only introduced after ensuring that the preceding one is working correctly.  Lastly, in a parallel conversion, the new and old system are operating simultaneously. However, this method can prove to be sometimes impractical as there could be duplication issues or errors due to having to input the same information onto two systems.

窗体底端

Stephy Varghese 

Chapter 13:

COLLAPSE

窗体顶端

What are the four conversion methods?

 

       The four conversion methods are Direct, Pilot, Phased, and Parallel. System conversion is the process of converting an old system into a new one and the four methods stated above is how the conversion is handled. Direct conversion is the process in which the old system is cut off and the new system is turned on at a certain point in time. Which allows users to rely on the new system because they have no other method to fall back on. Pilot conversion is when one part of an organization uses the new system on a trial basis so that when the system is known to work properly, it is introduced to the rest of the organization. This type of method is used when new systems with new and drastic changes are involved so that changes can still be made to improve the system before it is deemed complete. Phased conversion is the process of introducing a new system in stages until it is operational. This allows you to fix or improve any parts of the system in a specific stage before the next one. Certain parts of the organization take advantage of the new system before the rest of the organization. This type of method is the opposite of direct conversion because it does not convert the new system immediately but overtime. The fourth conversion method is parallel conversion which is when the old and new system work at the same time. This allows users to keep using the old system while learning the new system at their own pace while cross-checking for results. This method is known as the safest conversion method because in case something happens to the new system they still have the old to fall back on.

窗体底端