Identify the key elements and interactions of the system
Answers
Answer:
helpful for uh
Explanation:
In most cases, systems analysts operate in a dynamic environment where change
is a way of life. The environment may be a business firm, a business application, or a
computer system. To reconstruct a system, the following key elements must be
considered:
1. Outputs and inputs.
2. Processor(s).
3. Control.
4. Feedback.
5. Environment.
6. Boundaries and interface.
1.5.1 Outputs and Inputs
A major objective of a system is to produce an output that has value to its user.
Whatever the nature of the output (goods, services, or information), it must be in line
with the expectations of the intended user. Inputs are the elements (material, human
resources, and information) that enter the system for processing. Output is the outcome of
processing. A system feeds on input to produce output in much the same way that a
business brings in human, financial, and material resources to produce goods and
services. It is important to point out here that determining the output is a first step in
specifying the nature, amount, and regularity of the input needed to operate a system. For
example, in systems analysis, the first concern is to determine the user’s requirements of
a proposed computer system – that is, specification of the output that the computer is
expected to provide for meeting user requirements.
1.5.2 Processor(s)
The processor is the element of a system that involves the actual transformation of
input into output. It is the operational component of a system. Processors may modify the
input totally or partially, depending on the specifications of the output. This means that as
the output specifications change so does the processing. In some cases, input is also
modified to enable the processor to handle the transformation.
1.5.3 Control
The control element guides the system. It is the decision – making subsystem that
controls the pattern of activities governing input, processing, and output. In an
organizational context, management as a decision – making body controls the inflow,
handling and outflow of activities that affect the welfare of the business. In a computer
system, the operating system and accompanying software influence the behaviour of the
system. Output specifications determine what and how much input is needed to keep the
system in balance.
In systems analysis, knowing the attitudes of the individual who controls the area
for which a computer is being considered can make a difference between the success and
failure of the installation. Management support is required for securing control and
supporting the objective of the proposed change.
1.5.4 Feedback
Control in a dynamic system is achieved by feedback. Feedback measures output
against a standard in some form of cybernetic procedure that includes communication and
control. Output information is fed back to the input and / or to management (Controller)
for deliberation. After the output is compared against performance standards, changes can
result in the input or processing and consequently, the output.
Feedback may be positive or negative, routing or informational. Positive feedback
reinforces the performance of the system. It is routine in nature. Negative feedback
generally provides the controller with information for action. In systems analysis,
feedback is important in different ways. During analysis, the user may be told that the
problems in a given application verify the initial concerns and justify the need for change.
Another form of feedback comes after the system is implemented. The user informs the
analyst about the performance of the new installation. This feedback often results in
enhancements to meet the user’s requirements.
1.5.5 Environment
The environment is the “suprasystem” within which an organization operates. It is
the source of external elements that impinge on the system. In fact, it often determines
how a system must function. For example, the organization’s environment, consisting of
vendors, competitors, and others, may provide constraints and, consequently, influence
the actual performance of the business.
1.5.6 Boundaries and interface
A system should be defined by its boundaries – the limits that identify its
components, processes and interrelationship when it interfaces with another system. For
example, a teller system in a commercial bank is restricted to the deposits, withdrawals
and related activities of customers checking and savings accounts. It may exclude
mortgage foreclosures, trust activities, and the like.
Each system has boundaries that determine its sphere of influence and control.