Launch Of Great Day Fitness Tracking Online Site 613657
As The Launch For Great Day Fitness Trackings Online Site Approaches
Create a media-rich, 14- to 18-slide Microsoft® PowerPoint® tutorial or an infographic using an infographic maker, such as Piktochart, Venngage, or Canva, for Karen. Use this week's reading and activities for information systems planning to complete your assignment. Your tutorial should: Include a title page. Explain the concept of information systems planning. Compare at least two development planning methods. Clarify why each planning method is appropriate for new system implementation. Select a methodology for designing the information system. Explain the reason for the selected methodology. Address the option to acquire (instead of build in-house) information systems. Identify and discuss the tools that might be used in the acquisition of a new information system.
Paper For Above instruction
Introduction
As Great Day Fitness prepares to launch its new online tracking platform, strategic planning in information systems (IS) becomes paramount to ensure the project's success. The development of such systems not only requires a thorough understanding of the underlying concepts of IS planning but also necessitates selecting appropriate methodologies suited for the unique needs of the organization. This paper offers an in-depth explanation of IS planning, compares two prevalent development planning methods, discusses the rationale behind selecting a specific methodology for system design, and explores options for acquiring new systems, including the tools involved.
Understanding Information Systems Planning
Information systems planning is a structured process that aligns an organization’s technological capabilities with its business goals (Laudon & Laudon, 2020). It involves assessing current IS infrastructure, identifying technological needs, and developing strategies for system development or acquisition. Effective IS planning ensures that technology investments support efficiency, scalability, market competitiveness, and customer satisfaction. It acts as a roadmap guiding organizations through technological changes, reducing risks associated with ad hoc decisions, and enabling systematic resource allocation.
Comparison of Development Planning Methods
Two common development planning methods are the Waterfall model and the Agile methodology. The Waterfall approach is a linear and sequential process where each phase—requirements analysis, system design, implementation, testing, deployment, and maintenance—is completed before moving on (Boehm, 1988). This traditional method is appropriate for projects with well-defined requirements and minimal expected changes, such as implementing standard fitness tracking features for Great Day Fitness.
In contrast, Agile development emphasizes iterative progress through small, manageable increments called sprints (Highsmith, 2002). Agile is suitable for dynamic environments where requirements may evolve based on user feedback and market trends. For Great Day Fitness, Agile allows rapid incorporation of user feedback, continuous improvements, and quick adjustments, which are essential in a highly competitive and innovative fitness industry.
Each method's appropriateness hinges on project specifics. The Waterfall method provides structure and clarity for straightforward implementations, while Agile offers flexibility, adaptability, and faster delivery, which can be advantageous given the fast-changing fitness technology landscape.
Selecting a Methodology for System Design
For designing Great Day Fitness's online tracking system, an Agile methodology is recommended. The fitness industry thrives on innovation, user engagement, and rapid feature deployment. Agile facilitates continuous collaboration among developers, designers, and stakeholders—such as Karen—allowing the system to evolve in response to user needs and market opportunities.
The Agile approach's incremental delivery ensures early functioning modules, enabling real-world testing and feedback, which improves system usability and customer satisfaction. Moreover, Agile supports iterative refinement, reduces risk of misaligned features, and promotes adaptability—critical factors for staying competitive and innovative in the health and fitness sector.
Options for Acquiring Information Systems
Organizations can acquire information systems through in-house development or through outsourcing (buying) solutions. Building a system internally provides greater control, customization, and integration but requires significant resource investments, including skilled personnel, time, and financial commitment (Swanson & Beath, 2005).
Alternatively, acquiring a pre-developed system from vendors offers faster deployment, established support, and lower initial costs. For Great Day Fitness, purchasing a commercially available fitness tracking platform with customization options might be advantageous, especially if time-to-market is critical and internal development capacity is limited.
Tools for System Acquisition
When acquiring a new information system, several tools facilitate the process. Request for Proposal (RFP) documents are essential to solicit vendor bids, ensuring clear communication of requirements. Vendor evaluation matrices help compare options based on functionality, cost, support, and scalability (Dillon et al., 2001). Proof of Concept (PoC) demonstrations validate system fit and performance before full procurement. Contract management software ensures clear terms and service level agreements (SLAs). Additionally, project management tools like Microsoft Project or Asana assist in planning, tracking, and coordinating the acquisition process.
Conclusion
Effective launch of Great Day Fitness’s online tracking platform hinges on strategic IS planning, selecting suitable development methodologies, and making informed decisions about system acquisition. Agile methodology aligns well with the dynamic nature of the fitness industry, promoting flexibility and rapid innovation. Whether building internally or acquiring solutions externally, utilizing appropriate tools enhances efficiency and minimizes risks. A comprehensive approach ensures that the new system will meet organizational goals and deliver value to customers.
References
Boehm, B. W. (1988). A spiral model of software development and enhancement. Computer, 21(5), 61-72.
Dillon, A., Saffold, G., & Williams, R. (2001). Evaluating the potential of ERP software: Development of an evaluation framework. Information & Management, 39(2), 91-102.
Highsmith, J. (2002). Agile software development ecosystems. Addison-Wesley.
Laudon, K. C., & Laudon, J. P. (2020). Management information systems: Managing the digital firm (16th ed.). Pearson.
Swanson, E. B., & Beath, C. M. (2005). Rejuvenating the information systems function: Lessons from the past and implications for the future. MIS Quarterly, 29(3), 431-455.