CHAPTER FIVE

SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION AND TESTING

5.1 Introduction

At this point, we have completed the systems analysis phase. We have also completed the
systems design phase by selecting hardware and software and by preparing the systems design
and the implementation plan. It is time to install and begin to use our new system.

5.2 Implementation Techniques

Systems implementation is a set of procedures performed to complete the design contained in the
approved systems design document and to test, install, and begin to use the new or revised
system. This section describes the system testing and implementation techniques.

5.2.1 Parallel Approach

Here, we will have both the old and new payroll systems operating together for some time.
During this period of one operating cycle, (such as one month or one quarter), the outputs of the
two systems are compared to determine whether the new system is operating comparably to the
old. At the end of the operating cycle, management makes a decision, based on the comparison
of the two systems’ outputs, whether to terminate the operation of the old system.

5.2.2 Modular Approach

We can also implement the new payroll system one subsystem at a time or introduce it into one
organizational unit at a time. For example, we could install the new payroll system for the
employees of branch 1 at time x, followed by branch 2 at time y, and finally branch 3 at time z.