Chapter Eleven System Development and Project Management{0}
Chapter Eleven System Development and Project Management discuses the methods used to develop systems. The steps of developing systems are known as the Systems Development Life Cycle (SDLC). The steps are: planning, analysis, design, development, testing, implementation, and maintenance. Even though this system seems simple and to the point, today’s systems are so large that teams of developers are needed. That is why there are now many different methodology’s used today. The first method addressed was the traditional method known as waterfall. In the waterfall method each step of the SDLC is addressed in sequential order. This method takes along time and leaves room for major errors. This method is rarely used today. A more common methods used today is Rapid Application Development known as RAD. RAD is a beneficial method to use because it allows for the developers to create a mock system known as a prototype. This prototype is used throughout the process and is improved by constant feedback, given by clients and users.
The second half of the chapter discusses how to manage an information technology project. The highlight was the fact that a project manager and their vision are an essential piece of a project and without one; a system is likely to fail. The main focus a project manager has to keep in mind is the triple threat: time, cost, and scope. The three are so critical that if one of these areas changes, another one is likely to change as well. The process of project management includes choosing the right project, understand the plan, and have people who are willing to back the project. An affective project manager will oversea all areas of the project. They will outsource when necessary, and keep an open mind.