Step 5: Design

Abstract

In this step of the systems development process we proceed from the ‘what’ of the new system (discussed in Chapter 6) to the ‘how’: i.e. we move from the agreed definition of systems objectives and requirements to the detailed system design which is to be implemented. This means that the entire system has to be defined in terms of information flow, data, volumes, screen layouts, printed output designs, procedures (both computer operations and manual), program specifications, etc. In addition, a revised estimate of the operational cost of the system is calculated after the design has been completed and a revised plan for implementation produced.