Implementation

Implementation Methods

Direct

This changeover is direct, it's is an instant swap from the old system to the new one.

Parallel

With a parallel changeover the organisation runs both the old and new system in parallel for a time. Once the organisation is sure that the new system is working properly and that staff are ready to begin using it they will make the decision to completely change over. During a quiet period, perhaps during the night or at a weekend, the data is fully transferred from the old system which is then shut down.

Phased

This is where the old system is still active but parts of the new system or modules are brought online, for example, perhaps just the data entry screens and the printing modules are made available but the 'back end' of the system remains the same. Once any problems are ironed out with the new modules then extra modules will be introduced. Effectively the installation happens in small chunks.

Pilot

This is where the complete new system is installed and tested in a small number of departments or branches. They then use the system and report their feedback and any issues to the analyst. Once the organisation is confident that the system is working as expected, it will be rolled out across the whole organisation.

Exam Question: Discuss which method would be best for a company looking to change over systems fast, the current system is losing them money. 

The best method that the company should use would be a direct changeover. This is because this method is fast and does not involve continued use of the old system which is losing the company money. Therefore using direct changeover will allow them to change to the new system immediately, which is an inexpensive process and by doing this the company will not be wasting money through the old system, this method will also allow the company to complete the changeover within a week as specified. 

Although direct changeover can be a risky process, because the new system may fail and there would be nothing to fall back on. As well as requiring a bit of human work as all data needs to be transferred, I think it is still the best method of changeover for the company, saving them both money and time. 

Discuss why a company would use parallel over phased implementation? 

With parallel