Chapter 3

 

BUILDING SYSTEMS - FURTHER DEVELOPMENTS

 

Analysis is the study of a problem, generally done before undertaking some action to solve the problem. In the case of systems analysis, the first task is undertaking and describing existing  information processing procedures in the area of the proposed new system. Many of the techniques recommended in the previous chapter can be used to document our understanding of the present processing system, such as data flow diagrams.

 

In many instances it will be hard to identify any organized set of procedures that represent the existing information processing system. We need to enumerate problems and determine what motivated the suggestion that technology might help in processing information. Whether there is a well-defined system or not, we should develop the specific information. First, we should identify decisions that have to be made and the decision maker who is to be responsible. What are the inputs and outputs, what is the frequency of the decision, and what are the costs involved?  Next, we should identify crucial information flows including the source, frequency, and volume of information.