System Development Cycle

System Development Cycle

Most IT projects work in cycles. First, the needs of the computer users must be analyzed.

This task is
often performed by a professional Systems Analysts who will ask the users exactly what they would like
the system to do, and then draw up plans on how this can be implemented on a real computer based system.

The programmer will take the specifications from the Systems Analyst and then convert the broad
brushstrokes into actual computer programs. Ideally at this point there should be testing and input from the
users so that what is produced by the programmers is actually what they asked for.
Finally, there is the implementation process during which all users are introduced to the new systems,
which often involves an element of training.
Once the users start using the new system, they will often suggest new improvements and the whole
process is started all over again.

These are methodologies for defining a systems development cycle and often you will see four key stages,
as listed below.


Feasibility Study
Design
Programming
Implementation

Comments