Just by being present in an organization, the systems analyst changes it. However, unobtrusive methods such as sampling, investigation, and observing a decision maker’s behavior and interaction with his or her physical environment are less disruptive than other ways of eliciting human information requirements. Unobtrusive methods are considered to be insufficient information-gathering methods when used… [Continue Reading]
Information Gathering: Unobtrusive Methods
Sampling – Information Gathering
Sampling is the process of systematically selecting representative elements of a population. When these selected elements are examined closely, it is assumed that the analysis will reveal useful information about the population as a whole. The systems analyst has to make a decision on two key issues. First, there are many reports, forms, output documents,… [Continue Reading]
Sampling Design in Information Gathering
A systems analyst must follow four steps to design a good sample: 1. Determine the data to be collected or described. 2. Determine the population to be sampled. 3. Choose the type of sample. 4. Decide on the sample size. These steps are described in detail in the following subsections. Determine the data to be… [Continue Reading]
The Sample Size Decision (Information Gathering)
The sample size often depends on the cost involved or the time required by the systems analyst, or even the time available by people in the organization. This subsection gives the systems analyst some guidelines for determining the required sample size under ideal conditions, for example, to determine what percentage of input forms contain errors,… [Continue Reading]
Investigation – Analyzing Quantitative Documents
Investigation is the act of discovery and analysis of data. While investigating evidence in an organization, the analyst acts like Sherlock Holmes, the fabled detective from 221B Baker Street. As the systems analyst works to understand users, their organization, and its information requirements, it will become important to examine different types of hard data that… [Continue Reading]
