AS Level ICT

Analysis

Analysis
Analysis is the process of breaking down a problem into small parts so that it is easier to understand and therefore easier to solve

Analysis
The process of analysis identifying the problem to be solved follows a series of steps, each of which must be adhered to ensure that the problems will be properly and fully identified before a suitable solution is designed and implemented Once each of these steps has been completed, the process of analysis is complete

Analysis
The process of analysis begins with the client The client is the person or organisation that needs an ICT problems solved Within an organisation a particular individual will usually be identified as the person with whom the problem solver will communicate and interact This interaction usually begins with an interview, during which the clients requirements should become evident

Analysis
The interview should be structured (possibly using a detailed questionnaire or set of prepared questions), and should enable the problem solver to find out: General information about the client (e.g. what sort of business does the client undertake) What system are they are currently using to solve the problem? (e.g. do they use a paperbased data management system?)

Analysis
What resources will be available to solve the problem? (e.g. money, time, training) Who will be using the system? (e.g. the staff in the Accounts, Sales, Production, and Despatch Departments)

Analysis
It is important that the user or users of the end solution are not only identified, but that their current level of ICT skills are taken into account during the process of analysis This will enable training or re-training requirements to be incorporated into the analysis process It is also important to remember that different users will have different needs

Analysis
For example, a member of the general public may need to view and interact with the end solution but their skills and needs will differ from those of an employee who is entering data

Analysis
After the interview a detailed list of the clients requirements should be produced This is then sent to the client to be checked This should ensure that there are no misunderstanding about what is needed to solve the problem, how long the solution will take to design, test, and implement, and what resources will be needed

Analysis
The final stage of the analysis process is the identification of the inputs, processing, and outputs that the end solution will require It is important to remember that to avoid GIGO (Garbage In, Garbage Out) it is often better to begin with the outputs, as this will usually determine the processing required and the inputs that will be needed

Analysis
Outputs: What information is needed? What format or formats are the outputs required to be in? Processing: What processing of the input data is required in order to produce the specified outputs?

Analysis
Inputs: What input data is required? How will this data be gathered? How will this data be inputted into the end solution?

Summary
What problems need to be solved? What solution is presently being used? Who will be using your system? What alternatives can be used? What objectives will your solution aim to achieve? What software and/or hardware will be needed?

Summary
How will any data used be collected? How will any data used be selected? How will data be entered? (Inputs) What processing will be required? (Processing) How will information be displayed? (Outputs)

AS Level ICT
Analysis