The Systems Life Cycle: System Implementation (Cambridge International IGCSE ICT)
Exam board Cambridge International · IGCSEUpdated 2024-10-10
What is the system life cycle?
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The system life cycle is a structured process that guides the planning, creation, testing, and **deployment **of an information system
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Ensures systems are** systematically developed**, meeting needs of stakeholders, minimising risks and maximising efficiency
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The fourth stage is implementation, the purpose is to:
- Deploy the system to the production environment and ensure all components work together in the live setting.
System Implementation
Spec point —
7.4.1
What is system implementation?
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System implementation is a process that happens after a system has been fully tested and is working correctly
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Implementation happens in two stages:
- Data is transferred from old to new system
- System changeover
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A changeover is moving from the old system to the new system
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A Changeover can occur in four different ways
- Direct
- Parallel
- Pilot running
- Phased
Direct changeover
- The old system is replaced by the new system immediately
- Used when quick implementation is necessary
Parallel running
- Both old and new systems run simultaneously for a period before the old system is phased out
- Used when a smooth transition with minimal risk is required
Pilot running
- The new system is implemented in a small, controlled environment before full-scale implementation
- Used when testing the new system in a real-world setting
Phased implementation
- The new system is implemented in stages, with each stage replacing a part of the old system
- Used when a gradual transition is preferred to minimise disruption
| Implementation | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Direct changeover | - Fast implementation - Cost-effective as only one system is in operation | - High risk of failure - No fallback - Users can't be trained on the new system - No backup of the system |
| Parallel running | - Lower risk - Easy comparison of systems | - Time-consuming - Resource-intensive |
| Pilot running | - Low risk as only trialled in one department/centre/branch - Allows for fine-tuning - Staff have time to train with the new system - Few errors as it's fully tested | - Slower implementation - Potential inconsistencies - Confusion as there are 2 systems in use - No backup for the department/centre/branch using the new system |
| Phased implementation | - Reduced risk - Easier to manage | - Takes longer - Potential compatibility issues |
Worked Example Tick (✓) the most appropriate method of implementation to match the statements below.
Direct Parallel Pilot All of the benefits are immediate. If the new system fails the whole of the old system is still operational. This is the cheapest implementation method. The system is implemented in one branch of the company. [4]
Answers
Direct Parallel Pilot All of the benefits are immediate. Final answer: χ Final answer: Final answer: If the new system fails the whole of the old system is still operational. Final answer: Final answer: χ Final answer: This is the cheapest implementation method. Final answer: χ Final answer: Final answer: The system is implemented in one branch of the company. Final answer: Final answer: Final answer: χ
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