Business systems analysis and organizational design

¶ … New Systems

Business Systems Analysis

What are the advantages and disadvantages of these system installation methods?

Q1.Direct installation "cold turkey"

Direct installation 'cold turkey' is when the old system is completely shut down before the new system is turned on (What is implementation, 2001). The main disadvantage of this approach is obvious -- any unexpected 'glitches' in the new system will mean that work will be at a standstill until the new system is fixed, and there is no other alternative. This should only be used when the old system is so problematic and complicated that it is not worth continuing to run it as the new system is implemented -- or if the new system is well-tested and its ability to operate is assured.

Q2.Parallel installation (old system runs with the new)

Parallel installation occurs when the old system is allowed to run while the new system is introduced (What is implementation, 2001). The two systems run at the same time until it is clear that the new system is running well. This also allows for users to acclimate to the new system in a more gradual fashion. Disadvantages include the fact that such a seamless transition is not always possible -- it can be too costly in terms of time and money to run two parallel systems and some people may not bother to acclimate to the new system, and remain tethered to the comforting, former one even if it is inferior.

Q3.Single location "pilot approach"

A single location approach uses one site -- one office, location, etcetera -- as a 'test case' location. In this approach, the most desirable location for the system is selected because of size, quality of workers, or suitability of tasks. The implementation is observed, and any 'bugs' are worked out at this single site (What is implementation, 2001). Then the other components of the organization can be brought into the fold of the new system. This method is best used when time and resources are extremely limited regarding testing, but the system is still relatively uncertain in terms of its ability to operate independently. Potential damage is minimal and is contained to a single location.

Q4.Phases installation "staged incremental"