Why is selecting a systems development approach an important

business decision? Who should participate in the selection

process?
It is important for businesses to select a system development approach that provides a solution to the
problem they are experiencing, such as their current system is not being utilized or performing as
expected, new opportunities to upgrade or replace their system that will increase efficiency, save time
and reduce cost. The system development decision needs to satisfy their needs, objectives and
procedures. The IS Project Manager should include owners and the users of the system in order to
find the errors in performance and correct them prior to selecting and going “live” with their chosen
system. The users are chosen to participate in the development in order to get their “buy in” with the
new system. They know firsthand what has been working, what doesn’t work and will suggest
alternatives that they feel will improve the system.
2.Some have said that the best way to reduce system development
costs is to use application software packages or fourth-generation
tools. Do you agree? Why or why not?
I would have to agree that using an application software package (ASP) with a few simple alternations
to fit the businesses requirements would help reduce system development costs because someone
else has already paid to develop the system to perform the most common functions and there is no
need to re-invent the wheel if a large part of the development is already completed. Fourth-generation
tools where developed for those who don’t have extensive technological knowledge but has proven
that it cannot process large volumes of information or perform difficult functions. Buyer beware
because with some ASP systems it may cost too much to make system changes and therefore an in-
house system may prove to be more cost effective and easier to simplify.