Understanding the problem → first stage in the system development cycle:

• what is the exact nature of the problem?
• can it be solved w/ an information System?

• involves redefining the problem + identifying its important elements
• clear problem statement is v. important at this point
• this stage results in a problem statement and requirements for a new system
• The main parts of Understanding the Problem are:
  • Preliminary Investigation
  • Requirements Report
  • Requirements Prototype

Approaches to identify problems with existing systems

Analyse the existing system by determining how it works, what it does and who uses it

• This can be done by observation, interviews and surveys
  • Surveys and interviews help collect data such as:
    • User Experiences, problems w/ current systems, needs of new systems & new ideas
• Surveys → A series of predetermined questions used to gather data
  • Questions designed to draw out relevant information
• Interviews → Similar to surveys but are a more personal method of gathering data
  • New ideas and improvements more likely to be revealed as a more personal environment
• Observation → observe how users work with the existing system
  • Surveys and interviews may incorrectly display needs
  • instead, analysts can directly observe users to gain more accurate data
  • For new systems, analysts may choose to test a prototype version of the information system with sample users and see how they react

Interviewing/surveying USERS of the IS

• The purpose of a system is mostly concerned with fulfilling the needs of the users, as they utilise information created by the system.
• collects user experiences + problems with the existing system
• identifies their needs + any new ideas they may have to improve the system

Interviewing/Surveying PARTICIPANTS of the information system

• Participants in the system can identify problems from a different perspective, give ideas to solve the problem and provide valuable information to the processes occurring in the current system.
• they identify problems and have ideas in regard to solving them

Requirements Report

• this is up for debate, since it’s in both understanindg and planning
• so if in doubt, throw shit at the wall and hope it sticks