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DAC3193 -
ACCOUNTING
INFORMATION SYSTEM IICHAPTER 5: SYSTEM DESIGN
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INTRODUCTION
Design phase focus on the development of newsystem with the requirements of user.
The Design stage describes how the proposed
solution is to be developed. The solution designis specific to the systems technical environmentand the tools to be used in constructing thesystem.
The results of this stage will be inputs to the
Execute and Implement stages.Design and development process of newproducts
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OBJECTIVE DESIGN PHASEThe primary objective of the design phase is tocreate a des ign that satisfies the agreedapplication requirements.
In the design phase the SDLC process continues
to move from the "what" questions of theanalysis phase to the " how" ques tio ns.
The requirements prototype that was developedearlier during the analysis phase is graduallyimproved and extended to include all the
specified functions of the application.
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PURPOSE OF DESIGN PHASEDetailed requirements are transformed intodetailed specifications for the system to guidethe work of the Execute stage.
For complex projects there may be an iterativerelationship between the Design and Executestages.
Infrastructure architecture decisions are made toaddress how the system will meet the defined
functional, physical, interface, informationprotection and data requirements.
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PURPOSE OF DESIGN PHASEIt is the most crucial phase in the development of asystem. The logical system design arrived at as a result ofsystem analysis and is converted into physical systemdesign.
In the design phase the SDLC process continues to movefrom the what questions of the analysis phase to the how .
The logical design produced during the analysis is turnedinto a physical design - a detailed description of what isneeded to solve original problem.
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PURPOSE OF DESIGN PHASEInput, output, databases, forms, codification schemes andprocessing specifications are drawn up in detail.
In the design stage, the programming language and thehardware and software platform in which the new system
will run are also decided.
Data structure, control process, equipment source,workload and limitation of the system, Interface,documentation, training, procedures of using the system,taking backups and staffing requirement are decided at
this stage.
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DESIGN REQUIREMENTS
RESEARCH:
The design process begins with research. Almost allprojects require the builders or makers to ask a series ofquestions--of themselves or clients--about the purpose of
the project and the needs to fill.For example, architectural designers or home builders askclients questions concerning the size of interior spaces,the types of people for whom the building is being builtand any custom-tailored requests.
Questions of style come into play during this phase aswell. Other questions during the research phase concern aproject's budget and time line for completion. Themaker or client may examine similar projects that havebeen successfully completed.
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CONCEPTUALIZATIONThe conceptualization phase of the design processinvolves outlining the project. During this phase,designers may have a list of features or requirements thatthe project will include. They conduct brainstorming
sessions to generate additional ideas.Some designers draw a rough paper-and-pencil orcomputer-generated sketch of what the result will look like,encompassing all project requirements and features.
When conceptualizing, designers often modify the rough
sketch or outline to satisfy a change in needs orpreferences from clients.
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DESIGNDEVELOPMENT
The design development phase involves a closer, detailedlook at the project. This phase involves creating detailedplans, drawings and drafts and devoting attention to each
feature or specification.For example, architectural designers and builders usecomputer-aided design programs to model a new buildingto scale, ensuring the design, measurement and placementof doors, stairways and hallways.
Art project designers, such as graphic and logo designartists, construct several drafts or proofs.
Design development allows additional feedback from clientsand last-minute changes to be made and approved. Duringthis phase, designers or builders often assess final costsfor the project.
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DEVELOPMENT ANDCOMPLETION
The development stage involves creating and building theproject itself. The designer gathers supplies to completethe project.
Large designs and projects require continual involvement
from all team members, including project managers,leaders and engineers, to ensure work goes according toplan.
An architectural project may require on-site visits from aproperty owner to ensure satisfaction. Any last-minute
changes or added requirements during this stage mightresult in additional expenses.
When development is completed, the designer evaluatesthe project and shows the result to clients.
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CODING
The system design needs to be implemented to make it aworkable system. his demands the coding of design intocomputer language, i.e., programming language. This is alsocalled the programming phase in which the programmerconverts the program specifications into computer instructions,
which we refer to as programs.It is an important stage where the defined procedures aretransformed into control specifications by the help of a computerlanguage. The programs coordinate the data movements andcontrol the entire process in a system.
A well written code reduces the testing and maintenance effort. It
is generally felt that the programs must be modular in nature.This helps in fast development, maintenance and futurechanges, if required. Programming tools like compilers,interpreters and language like c, c++, and java etc., are used forcoding .with respect to the type of application. The rightprogramming language should be chosen
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SYSTEM DESIGN
SPECIFICATIONThe System Design Specification (SDS) is a complete document that contains all of the information needed to develop the system.
The major sections of the SDS should be:
1. Introduction
2. Project Scope
3. System Design
4. Component and Process Design
5. Data Design
6. User Displays and Output Reports
7. System Files
8. Prototype Description
9. Prototype Test Procedures
10. Prototype Analysis
11. System Development and Project Management Schedules
12. Special Notes
13. Project Extensions
14. Appendices
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ACCOUNTANT ROLES IN
DESIGN PHASE
Accountants must understand the entire systemsdevelopment process, because they are involved inseveral ways:
Helping to specify their needs.
As members of the development team.
As auditors after the fact.
Accountants also help keep the project on track by:
Evaluating and measuring benefits.
Measuring costs. Ensuring the project stays on schedule.
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ACCOUNTANT ROLES IN
DESIGN PHASE
Effective systems analysis and design
can ensure that developers:
Correctly define the business problem. Design the appropriate solution.
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INTRODUCTION
The crucial phases of the SDLC include:
Systems analysis to define the new systems requirements
(discussed in Chapter 18).
The phases discussed in this chapter, which include:
Conceptual systems design Physical systems design
Systems implementation and conversion
Operation and maintenance
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CONCEPTUAL
SYSTEMS DESIGN
In the conc eptual systems designphase, a general framework iscreated for implementing user requirements and solving theproblems identified in the analysis phase.
The three main steps are:
Evaluate design alternatives. Prepare design specifications.
Prepare the conceptual systems design report.
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Systems
Analysis
Prepare
Design
Specifications
Physical
Design
Implementation
and
Conversion
Operation
and
Maintenance
Prepare
Conceptual Systems
Design Report
Evaluate
Design
Alternatives
Conceptual
Systems
Design
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Systems
Analysis
Prepare
Design
Specifications
Physical
Design
Implementation
and
Conversion
Operation
and
Maintenance
Prepare
Conceptual Systems
Design Report
Evaluate
Design
Alternatives
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CONCEPTUAL
SYSTEMS DESIGN
Evaluating design alternatives
There are many design decisions that must be made. For example:
Should a document be hard-copy or sent by EDI?
Should the company use a large centralized mainframe or some
form of distributed processing? What form should data entry take, e.g., keyboard, optical character
recognition, POS devices?
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CONCEPTUAL
SYSTEMS DESIGN
Also, there are many ways to approach the systems
development process:
Packaged software
In-house development End-user development
Outsourcing
The company also chooses between:
Modifying or enhancing existing software Replacing existing software
Reengineering its business processes
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CONCEPTUAL
SYSTEMS DESIGN
The design team should identify a variety of designalternatives and evaluate each with respect to:
How well it meets organizational and system objectives
How well it meets user needs
Whether it is economically feasible Its advantages and disadvantages
The steering committee evaluates the alternatives.
Click here to view some of the design considerationsand alternatives from Table 20-1 in your textbook.
Design Considerations
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Systems
Analysis
Prepare
Design
Specifications
Physical
Design
Implementation
and
Conversion
Operation
and
Maintenance
Prepare
Conceptual Systems
Design Report
Evaluate
Design
Alternatives
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CONCEPTUAL
SYSTEMS DESIGN
Prepare design specifications
Once a design has been selected, the project
team develops the conceptual design
speci f icat ionsfor the following elements:
Output
Because output is what goes to the user andthe system must be designed to meet userneeds, the output specifications are preparedfirst.
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CONCEPTUAL
SYSTEMS DESIGN
Prepare design specifications
Once a design has been selected, the project
team develops the conceptual design
speci f icat ionsfor the following elements:
Output
Data storage
How will data be stored to produce thedesired outputs?
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CONCEPTUAL
SYSTEMS DESIGN
Prepare design specifications
Once a design has been selected, the project
team develops the conceptual design
speci f icat ionsfor the following elements:
Output
Data storage
Input
What types of data must be entered toproduce the desired outputs?
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CONCEPTUAL
SYSTEMS DESIGN
Prepare design specifications
Once a design has been selected, the projectteam develops the conceptual design
speci f icat ionsfor the following elements: Output
Data storage
Input
Processing procedures and operations How will data be processed and in whatsequence to produce the desired outputs?
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Systems
Analysis
Prepare
Design
Specifications
Physical
Design
Implementation
and
Conversion
Operation
and
Maintenance
Prepare
Conceptual Systems
Design Report
Evaluate
Design
Alternatives
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CONCEPTUAL
SYSTEMS DESIGN
Prepare the conceptual systems design report
A conc eptual systems design repor tis prepared at the end of the
conceptual design phase to:
Guide physical system design activities.
Communicate how management and user information needs will bemet.
Help the steering committee assess system feasibility.
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CONCEPTUAL
SYSTEMS DESIGN
The main component is a description of one or more
recommended system designs. This description
contains:
The contents of each output, database, and input.
Processing flows and the relationships among programs, files,
inputs, and outputs.
Hardware, software, and resource requirements.
Audit, control, and security processes and procedures.
A discussion of assumptions or unresolved problems that mightaffect the final design.
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INTRODUCTION
The crucial phases of the SDLC include:
Systems analysis to define the new systems requirements
(discussed in Chapter 18).
The phases discussed in this chapter, which include:
Conceptual systems design Physical systems design
Systems implementation and conversion
Operation and maintenance
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
During the physical systems design phase, thecompany determines how the conceptual AIS designis to be implemented.
The broad, user-oriented requirements of conceptual design aretranslated into detailed specifications used to code and testcomputer programs.
Phases include: Designing output
Creating files and databases
Designing input
Writing computer programs Developing procedures
Building in controls
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Systems
Analysis
Conceptual
Systems
Design
Output
Design
Implementation
and
Conversion
Operation
and
Maintenance
File and DB
Design
Input
Design
Program
Design
Proce-dures
Design
Controls
Design
Physical
Systems
Design
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Systems
Analysis
Conceptual
Systems
Design
Output
Design
Implementation
and
Conversion
Operation
and
Maintenance
File and DB
Design
Input
Design
Program
Design
Proce-dures
Design
Controls
Design
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Output design
The objective of output design is to determine
the nature, format, content, and timing of
printed reports, documents, and screen
displays.
Requires cooperation between users and
designers.
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Important design considerations include:
Use of the output
Who will use it and why?
When is it needed? What decisions will it
facilitate?
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Important design considerations include:
Use of the output
Output medium Paper
Screen
Voice
response Diskette
Microfilm
Other
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Important design considerations include:
Use of the output
Output medium
Output format
Should select the format thatclearly conveys the mostinformation.
Could be:
Table
Narrative
Graphic
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Important design considerations include:
Use of the output
Output medium
Output format
Pre-printed
Should paper output beon preprinted formand/or turnaround
document?
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Important design considerations include:
Use of the output
Output medium
Output format
Pre-printed
Location
Where is the output to be
sent?
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Important design considerations include:
Use of the output
Output medium
Output format
Pre-printed
Location
Access
Who should be able toaccess hard-copy andscreen output?
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Important design considerations include:
Use of the output
Output medium
Output format
Pre-printed
Location
Access
Detail Lengthy output should be preceded by
an executive summary and a table ofcontents.
Headings and legends organize dataand highlight important items.
Detailed info goes in an appendix.
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Important design considerations include:
Use of the output
Output medium
Output format
Pre-printed
Location
Access
Detail
Timeliness
How often should the output beproduced?
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Outputs usually fit into one of the following four categories:
Scheduled reports
Have pre-specified content andformat.
Are prepared on a regular basis.
Examples:
Weekly sales analysis
Monthly financial statements
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Outputs usually fit into one of the following four categories:
Scheduled reports
Special-purpose analysis reports
No pre-specified content andformat.
Typically prepared in response to a
management request.
Example:
Analysis of impact of a governmentmandate on profitability
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Outputs usually fit into one of the following four categories:
Scheduled reports
Special-purpose analysis reports
Triggered exception reports
Have pre-specified content and
format. Prepared only in response to abnormal
conditions, i.e., the trigger.
Example:
Cost overruns
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Outputs usually fit into one of the following four categories:
Scheduled reports
Special-purpose analysis reports
Triggered exception reports
Demand reports
Have pre-specified content andformat.
Prepared only on request.
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
AIS developers prepare sample outputs and users evaluate them
to ensure they are complete, relevant, and useful.
Modifications are made as needed to ensure acceptability.
Many organizations require users to sign off on these documents
before proceeding through the SDLC.
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Systems
Analysis
Conceptual
Systems
Design
OutputDesign
Implementation
and
Conversion
Operation
and
Maintenance
File and DBDesign
InputDesign
ProgramDesign
Proce-dures
Design
ControlsDesign
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Systems
Analysis
Conceptual
Systems
Design
OutputDesign
Implementation
and
Conversion
Operation
and
Maintenance
File and DBDesign
InputDesign
ProgramDesign
Proce-dures
Design
ControlsDesign
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Input design
Systems designers must identify the different
types of data input and optimal input methods.
There are two principal types of data input:
Forms
Computer screens
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Considerations in input design include:
Input medium Keyboard
OCR
MICR
POS terminal
EDI
Voice input
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Considerations in input design include:
Input medium
Input source
Where do dataoriginate?
Computer
Customer Remote location
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Considerations in input design include:
Input medium
Input source
Input format What format captures the datawith the least effort or cost?
Source or turnaround document
Screen
Source data automation
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Considerations in input design include:
Input medium
Input source
Input format
Input type What is the nature of the
data?
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Considerations in input design include:
Input medium
Input source
Input format
Input type
Volume How much data are to be
entered?
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Considerations in input design include:
Input medium
Input source
Input format
Input type
Volume
Personnel
What functions and expertise do thedata entry operators have?
Is additional training necessary?
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Considerations in input design include:
Input medium
Input source
Input format
Input type
Volume
Personnel
Frequency
How often is data to beentered?
S C S S S
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Considerations in input design include:
Input medium
Input source
Input format
Input type
Volume
Personnel
Frequency
Cost How can costs be minimizedwithout adversely affectingefficiency and accuracy?
PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Considerations in input design include:
Input medium
Input source
Input format
Input type
Volume
Personnel
Frequency
Cost
Error detection and correction
What errors are possible? How can they be detected and
corrected?
PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Forms design
Although input is evolving toward source data automation, forms
design is still important.
Following are important principles for designing new forms and
evaluating existing ones: General considerations
Preprint as much data as possible.
Use appropriate weight and grade of paper.
Use bold type, double-thick lines, and shading to
highlight different parts of the form.
Use a standard size and one that is consistent withrequirements for filing, binding, or mailing.
If mailed to external parties, position the addressfor placement in a window envelope.
Have copies of the form printed in different colorsto facilitate accurate distribution.
Include clear instructions for completing the form.
PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Forms design
Although input is evolving toward source data automation, forms
design is still important.
Following are important principles for designing new forms and
evaluating existing ones: General considerations
Introductory section of form
Place the form name at the top in bold
type.
Have the forms pre-numberedconsecutively.
If distributed to external parties, havecompany name and address pre-
printed on the form.
PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Forms design
Although input is evolving toward source data automation, forms
design is still important.
Following are important principles for designing new forms and
evaluating existing ones: General considerations
Introductory section of form
Main body of form
Group together logically relatedinformation (e.g., info about thecustomer, info about the product).
Provide sufficient room to record eachitem.
Order the data items consistent withthe sequence in which the data islikely to be gathered.
Use codes and check-offs in placeswhere standardized explanations arelikely.
PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Forms Design
Although input is evolving toward source data automation, forms
design is still important.
Following are important principles for designing new forms and
evaluating existing ones: General considerations
Introductory section of form
Main body of form
Conclusion section of form
Provide space for: Recording final disposition of the
form.
Approval signatures.
Dates of approval and final
disposition. A dollar or numeric total.
Clearly indicate the distribution ofeach form.
PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Designing computer screens
It is more efficient to enter data directly into the computer than to
record it on paper for subsequent entry.
Therefore, its important to design computer screens for input as
well as output.
PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Computer screens are most effective when the followingprinciples are used:
Organize the screen for quick, accurate, and complete entry of
the data.
Minimize input by retrieving as much as possiblefrom the system.
Example: If the customer number is entered,retrieve his name/address data from the system.
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Systems
Analysis
Conceptual
Systems
Design
OutputDesign
Implementation
and
Conversion
Operation
and
Maintenance
File and DBDesign
InputDesign
ProgramDesign
Proce-dures
Design
ControlsDesign
PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Input design
Systems designers must identify the different
types of data input and optimal input methods.
There are two principal types of data input:
Forms
Computer screens
PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Considerations in input design include:
Input medium Keyboard
OCR
MICR
POS terminal EDI
Voice input
PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Considerations in input design include:
Input medium
Input source
Where do dataoriginate?
Computer
Customer Remote location
PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Considerations in input design include:
Input medium
Input source
Input format What format captures the data
with the least effort or cost?
Source or turnaround document
Screen
Source data automation
PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Considerations in input design include:
Input medium
Input source
Input format
Input type What is the nature of the
data?
PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Considerations in input design include:
Input medium
Input source
Input format
Input type
Volume How much data are to be
entered?
PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Considerations in input design include:
Input medium
Input source
Input format
Input type
Volume
Personnel
What functions and expertise do thedata entry operators have?
Is additional training necessary?
PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Considerations in input design include:
Input medium
Input source
Input format
Input type
Volume
Personnel
Frequency
How often is data to beentered?
PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Considerations in input design include:
Input medium
Input source
Input format
Input type
Volume
Personnel
Frequency
Cost How can costs be minimizedwithout adversely affectingefficiency and accuracy?
PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Considerations in input design include:
Input medium
Input source
Input format
Input type
Volume
Personnel
Frequency
Cost
Error detection and correction
What errors are possible? How can they be detected and
corrected?
PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Forms design
Although input is evolving toward source data automation, forms
design is still important.
Following are important principles for designing new forms and
evaluating existing ones: General considerations
Preprint as much data as possible.
Use appropriate weight and grade of paper.
Use bold type, double-thick lines, and shading to
highlight different parts of the form. Use a standard size and one that is consistent with
requirements for filing, binding, or mailing.
If mailed to external parties, position the addressfor placement in a window envelope.
Have copies of the form printed in different colorsto facilitate accurate distribution.
Include clear instructions for completing the form.
PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Forms design
Although input is evolving toward source data automation, forms
design is still important.
Following are important principles for designing new forms and
evaluating existing ones:
General considerations
Introductory section of form
Place the form name at the top in bold
type. Have the forms pre-numbered
consecutively.
If distributed to external parties, havecompany name and address pre-
printed on the form.
PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Forms design
Although input is evolving toward source data automation, forms
design is still important.
Following are important principles for designing new forms and
evaluating existing ones:
General considerations
Introductory section of form
Main body of form
Group together logically relatedinformation (e.g., info about thecustomer, info about the product).
Provide sufficient room to record eachitem.
Order the data items consistent withthe sequence in which the data islikely to be gathered.
Use codes and check-offs in places
where standardized explanations arelikely.
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Forms Design
Although input is evolving toward source data automation, forms
design is still important.
Following are important principles for designing new forms and
evaluating existing ones:
General considerations
Introductory section of form
Main body of form
Conclusion section of form
Provide space for: Recording final disposition of the
form.
Approval signatures.
Dates of approval and final
disposition. A dollar or numeric total.
Clearly indicate the distribution ofeach form.
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DESIGN
Designing computer screens
It is more efficient to enter data directly into the computer than to
record it on paper for subsequent entry.
Therefore, its important to design computer screens for input as
well as output.
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DESIGN
Computer screens are most effective when the followingprinciples are used:
Organize the screen for quick, accurate, and complete entry of
the data.
Minimize input by retrieving as much as possiblefrom the system.
Example: If the customer number is entered,retrieve his name/address data from the system.
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DESIGN
Program design
Program development is one of the most time-consuming
activities in the SDLC.
A st ructured programm ingprocess should be followed:
With structured programming, programs should be subdivided intosmall, well-defined modules to reduce complexity and enhance
reliability and modifiability.
Modules should interact with a control module rather than with each
other.
To facilitate testing and modification, each module should have onlyone entry and exit point.
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DESIGN
To improve software quality, organizations shoulddevelop programming standards (rules for writing
programs).
Contributes to consistency among programs.
Makes them easier to read and maintain.
Consider doing structured program walk-throughs to
find incorrect logic, errors, omissions, or other
problems.
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DESIGN
Program preparation time may range from a fewdays to a few years, depending on complexity.
Though accountants need not be programmers, they
should understand how software is created.
The following slides discuss the eight steps for
developing software and where these steps take
place in the SDLC.
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DESIGN
STEP ONE: Determine user needs.
Occurs during the systems analysis stage of
the SDLC.
SystemsAnalysis
Conceptual
Design
Physical
Design
Implementation
and
Conversion
Operation
and
Maintenance
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DESIGN
STEP TWO: Develop and document aplan.
Occurs during the conceptual design phase
and the beginning of physical design.
SystemsAnalysis
Conceptual
Design
Physical
Design
Implementation
and
Conversion
Operation
and
Maintenance
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
STEP THREE: Write the program code.
Design in increasing levels of detail, known
as hierarchical prog ram design.
Begun during systems design and completed
during systems implementation.
SystemsAnalysis
Conceptual
Design
Physical
Design
Implementation
and
Conversion
Operation
and
Maintenance
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
STEP FOUR: Test the program code.
Debuggingis discovering and eliminating
program errors.
Desk checkinghappens after a program is
coded and involves a visual and mentalreview to discover programming errors.
Programs are tested for logic errors using
test data that simulates both valid
transactions and all possible error conditions.
SystemsAnalysis
Conceptual
Design
Physical
Design
Implementation
andConversion
Operation
and
Maintenance
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DESIGN
Large programs are often tested in threestages:
Individual program modules.
The linkages between the module and the
control module.
The interfaces between the program beingtested and other application programs.
SystemsAnalysis
Conceptual
Design
Physical
Design
Implementation
andConversion
Operation
and
Maintenance
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PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Errors need to be found as soon as possible inthe development process.
Errors discovered late cost 801000% more to
fix than those found early.
SystemsAnalysis
Conceptual
Design
Physical
Design
Implementation
andConversion
Operation
and
Maintenance
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DESIGN
STEP FIVE: Document the program.
Documentation explains how programs work
and helps correct and resolve errors.
Includes flowcharts, record layouts, E-R
diagrams, REA data models, narrativedescriptions of the system, etc., organized in a
manual.
SystemsAnalysis
Conceptual
Design
Physical
Design
Implementation
andConversion
Operation
and
Maintenance
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DESIGN
STEP SIX: Train program users.
Often uses the program documentation.
SystemsAnalysis
Conceptual
Design
Physical
Design
Implementation
andConversion
Operation
and
Maintenance
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DESIGN
STEP SEVEN: Install the system.
-All components are brought together, and the
company begins to use the system.
SystemsAnalysis
Conceptual
Design
Physical
Design
Implementation
andConversion
Operation
and
Maintenance
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DESIGN
STEP EIGHT: Use and modify the system. Program maintenanceis a response to any
factors that require program revision.
Includes requests for:
New or revised reports.
Changes in input, file content, or values suchas tax rates.
Error detection and correction.
Conversion to new hardware.
SystemsAnalysis
Conceptual
Design
Physical
Design
Implementation
andConversion
Operation
and
Maintenance
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Systems
Analysis
Conceptual
Systems
Design
OutputDesign
Implementation
and
Conversion
Operation
and
Maintenance
File and DBDesign
InputDesign
ProgramDesign
Proce-
dures
Design
ControlsDesign
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C
DESIGN
Procedures design Individuals who interact with a newly-designed AIS need
procedures to cover:
Input preparation
Transaction processing
Error detection and correction Controls
Reconciliation of balances
Database access
Output preparation and distribution
Computer operator instructions
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DESIGN
Procedures may take the form of:
System manuals
User instruction classes
Training materials
Online help screens
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DESIGN
The procedures may be written by:
Development teams;
Users; or
Teams representing both groups.
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Systems
Analysis
Conceptual
Systems
Design
OutputDesign
Implementation
and
Conversion
Operation
and
Maintenance
File and DBDesign
InputDesign
ProgramDesign
Proce-
duresDesign
ControlsDesign
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DESIGN
Controls design Improperly controlled input, processing, and database functions
produce information of questionable value.
Controls must be built into an AIS to ensure its effectiveness,efficiency, and accuracy. These controls should:
Minimize errors. Detect and correct errors when they do occur.
Accountants play a vital role in this area.
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DESIGN
Important control concerns that must be addressedinclude:
Validity Are all interactionsvalid?
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DESIGN
Important control concerns that must be addressedinclude:
Validity
Authorization
Are input, processing, storage, andoutput activities authorized by theappropriate managers?
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DESIGN
Important control concerns that must be addressedinclude:
Validity
Authorization
Accuracy Is input verified to ensure
accuracy?
What controls ensure that data isnot lost when passing betweenprocessing activities?
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DESIGN
Important control concerns that must be addressedinclude:
Validity
Authorization
Accuracy
Security
Is the system protected against:
Unauthorized physical and logical access toprevent improper use, alteration, destruction,or disclosure of information and software?
Theft of system resources?
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DESIGN
Important control concerns that must be addressedinclude:
Validity
Authorization
Accuracy
Security
Numerical control
Are documents pre-numbered to prevent errors orintentional misuse and to detect when documentsare missing or stolen?
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DESIGN
Important control concerns that must be addressedinclude:
Validity
Authorization
Accuracy
Security
Numerical control
Availability
Is the system available as set forth inagreements?
Can users enter, update, and retrieve data duringthose times?
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DESIGN
Important control concerns that must be addressedinclude:
Validity
Authorization
Accuracy
Security
Numerical control
Availability
Maintainability
Can the system be modified without affecting
system availability, security, and integrity? Are only authorized, tested, and documented
changes made to the system and data?
Are resources available to manage, schedule,document, and communicate changes tomanagement and authorized users?
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DESIGN
Important control concerns that must be addressedinclude:
Validity
Authorization
Accuracy
Security
Numerical control
Availability
Maintainability Integrity
Is processing complete, accurate,timely, and authorized?
Is it free from unauthorized orinadvertent manipulations?
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DESIGN
Important control concerns that must be addressedinclude:
Validity
Authorization
Accuracy Security
Numerical control
Availability
Maintainability
Integrity Audit trail
Can data be traced from source to output and viceversa?
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DESIGN
Physical systems design report
At the end of the physical design phase, a phys ica l sys tems
design repor tis prepared, summarizing what was accomplished.
This report serves as the basis for managements decision whether
to proceed to implementation.