The coursework project: analyse, design, implement, test, document & evaluate

By the end you should be able to (NSSCO Computer Studies 6.1):

• Use the following steps involved in systems analysis: general statement (define a problem concisely, including the background to the organisation with the problem to be solved); specific objectives (state clearly the specific objectives to be achieved); description of the existing solution (using fact finding methods); evaluation of existing solutions; description of at least two other possible solutions to the problem, including the proposed solution
• Present a clear overall plan including a Gantt chart
• Break the whole problem into sub-problems as separate modules that are easily distinguishable; design the solution of each module using algorithm tools
• Select hardware in line with the system requirements and give at least two reasons why such hardware is needed
• Select software in line with the system requirements, including an implementation tool such as: programming language, query language and macros
• Translate each module's algorithm into a solution; provide accurate solutions to the given objectives; implement the solution using programming language or query language and macros
• Apply test strategies to test programs developed and select appropriate test data, expected results linked to specific objectives; show the results of testing using normal, extreme and abnormal data and covering all aspects of functionality
• Develop technical documentation to enable the understanding and the maintenance of the new solution; develop user documentation including instructions and sample runs of the new solution
• Evaluate the new system to assess if it is matching the specific objectives; highlight suggestions for development