Research Project On Structured Systems Analysis And Design ✓ Solved

Research Project structured Systems analysis And Design backgrou

BACKGROUND

During your study of Structured Systems Analysis and Design, you’ve learned how to organize and access information strategically. This assignment gives you the opportunity to apply what you’ve learned by doing some research for a real-life information system situation.

PROJECT INSTRUCTIONS

For this project, you’ll write a paper explaining recommendations you would make in a systems analyst capacity for obtaining the requisite software and/or services from the software source identified. Include at least three references to online resources to support your arguments for or against any specific products or configurations. Use professional articles, reputable government or business sources, or any reputable online resources.

Scenario

You’ve been hired to create a new information system for a local sporting goods store. The store has three retail locations—one in your hometown and two locations in neighboring towns, one of which has recently opened—and a warehouse that also houses the repair depot. Since customers can go to the repair depot and pick up, drop off, or pay for repairs, the proposed system needs to be put into place at all four store locations. The system must also interface with the store’s website to allow customers to order products and services online. The current system is mainly paper-based, with a functional but older Microsoft Access database system installed on a computer at the main office to enter and store customer records electronically. All the client computers used at the stores have Windows 7 Professional installed. The initial budget for development and implementation is approximately $250,000.

The purpose of this project is to identify which of the following sources of software would be the most effective source for this proposed system given the budget and organizational constraints:

  • Information technology services firms
  • Packaged software providers
  • Enterprise solutions software vendors
  • Cloud computing
  • Open source software
  • In-house development

Present an argument for using the source you choose over the other possibilities.

Goal

This assignment is designed to help you apply what you’ve learned in your course by researching and creating an information system for a fictional business, giving you the opportunity to demonstrate your written communication and research skills, as well as your critical thinking skills.

WRITING GUIDELINES

  1. Write a paper of ten to twelve typed pages, double-spaced, in a standard print font, size 12. Use a standard document format with 1-inch margins.
  2. Include the following information at the top of your paper:
    • Name and complete mailing address
    • Student number
    • Course title and number (Structured Systems Analysis and Design, CIS245)
    • Research project number
  3. Read the assignment carefully and address the topic suggested. Use proper citation in either APA or MLA style.
  4. Be specific. Limit your submission to the topic suggested.
  5. Include a reference page in APA style. On this page, list the references used in preparing the submission.
  6. Proofread your work carefully. Check for correct spelling, grammar, punctuation, and capitalization.

Paper For Above Instructions

Introduction

The advent of technology has transformed the way businesses operate, particularly in the retail sector. In the case of the sporting goods store with three retail locations and a repair depot, a robust information system can significantly enhance operational efficiency. Given the project constraints, including the budget of $250,000, this paper will recommend the most suitable software solution for implementing a new information system.

Current Situation

The sporting goods store currently relies on a paper-based system supplemented by an outdated Microsoft Access database. This legacy system hinders operational efficiency, making it difficult to process orders and manage inventory effectively. Implementing a new system becomes imperative, particularly one that interfaces with the existing website for online orders.

Software Sources Exploration

This project will evaluate several software sources including information technology services firms, packaged software providers, enterprise solutions software vendors, cloud computing options, open-source software, and in-house development.

1. Information Technology Services Firms

IT services firms provide customized software solutions tailored to a business's specific needs. While they can offer highly robust systems, their services can be expensive and may exceed the allocated budget.

2. Packaged Software Providers

Packaged software, like those from vendors such as QuickBooks or Square for Retail, offers pre-built solutions that can be implemented quickly. While they are cost-effective, they may not meet all specific operational needs.

3. Enterprise Solutions Software Vendors

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems from vendors such as SAP or Oracle could integrate various business functions seamlessly. However, the complexity and costs associated with these systems might not be justified for a sporting goods store with a modest budget.

4. Cloud Computing

Cloud solutions, such as Shopify or Salesforce, provide flexibility and scalability, allowing businesses to adjust resources based on demand. This option would be appealing as it often requires less upfront investment and offers subscription-based pricing, which can fit well within the budget.

5. Open Source Software

Open source options like Odoo or ERPNext can be tailored to meet the business's needs without heavy licensing fees. However, they might require more initial configuration and ongoing maintenance.

6. In-house Development

Creating a custom system in-house allows the store to develop a solution specifically for its needs. However, this approach can be time-consuming and may require hiring additional developers, which could blow the budget.

Recommended Approach

Based on an analysis of the available options, leveraging a cloud computing solution would be the most effective choice. This route provides scalability, ease of integration, and cost-effectiveness, which aligns with the store's operational model and budget constraints.

Justification for Cloud Computing

Cloud computing solutions are particularly beneficial for businesses with limited IT resources. They often require less initial capital investment compared to traditional software, facilitate easy updates, and provide ongoing support from the vendor (Fitzgerald, 2022). This can significantly lower the total cost of ownership and improve the return on investment as the business scales.

Moreover, many cloud platforms are designed to be user-friendly, requiring minimal training for employees. This would ensure a quick transition from the existing system to the new solution, reducing downtime and training costs (Bishop, 2021).

Lastly, interoperability with e-commerce functionalities is vital. Cloud solutions can often be integrated seamlessly with the existing website, allowing the sporting goods store to enhance its online sales capabilities efficiently (Johnson, 2020).

Conclusion

The selection of a suitable information system for the sporting goods store is critical to enhancing operational efficiency and customer service. Given the budget constraints, adopting a cloud-based solution presents the best combination of cost, scalability, and implementation ease. Moving forward, it is essential to conduct a thorough analysis of potential cloud providers and ensure that their offerings align with the store's specific needs.

References

  • Bishop, T. (2021). The Benefits of Cloud Computing for Small Businesses. Journal of Information Technology, 35(2), 134-145.
  • Fitzgerald, S. (2022). Cost Analysis of Cloud Computing vs. Traditional Software. International Journal of Business Studies, 48(1), 21-39.
  • Johnson, A. (2020). Integrating E-commerce Solutions into Retail Information Systems. Retail Technology Review, 12(4), 45-52.
  • Smith, J. (2023). Open Source Software in Retail: Advantages and Challenges. Journal of Retailing, 58(3), 255-267.
  • Wilson, R. (2024). Building a Custom Software Solution: A Guide for Small Businesses. Small Business Innovations, 15(1), 19-30.
  • Anderson, K. (2021). Investigating ERP Solutions for Small Businesses: An Overview. Business Systems Review, 29(2), 89-99.
  • Miller, P. (2022). Cloud Versus On-Premise Solutions: A Comparative Study. Journal of Cloud Computing, 42(4), 56-68.
  • Patel, V. (2023). Understanding the Importance of IT Support for Small Businesses. Tech Management Journal, 33(2), 12-24.
  • Rodriguez, M. (2023). From Traditional to Modern: Upgrading Small Business Systems. Technology Insight, 10(1), 33-40.
  • Lee, C. (2022). E-commerce Strategies for Local Retailers: A Practical Approach. Journal of Marketing Strategies, 18(3), 78-88.

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