The systems life cycle: evaluation Cambridge IGCSE Information & Communication Technology revision
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In plain words
Some time after the new system goes live, someone has to ask the awkward question: is it any good? Evaluation measures the finished system against what was asked for at the start.
6 things to know
- A solution is evaluated for its efficiency (does it do the job quickly, with the least time and resources?), its ease of use, and its appropriateness (does it suit the task and the users?).
- The solution is compared with the original task requirements, to see whether each one has been met.
- Any limitations of the system are identified, along with the improvements needed.
- The users' responses to the system are collected, through interviews, questionnaires and observation.
- The results of testing are looked at again.
- Evaluation may lead to changes, and so back to an earlier stage of the life cycle.
Worked example
A shop has used a new stock control system for three months. How should it be evaluated?
- Compare what the system does with the list of requirements written during analysis.
- Ask the staff who use it, by questionnaire or interview, whether it is easy to use and whether it saves them time.
- List any limitations found, and the improvements needed to remove them.
Tips and tricks
- Three words to remember: efficiency, ease of use and appropriateness.
- Evaluation always looks back to the original requirements. Mention them in any answer.
It lands in your notebook with its questions as flashcards.
The systems life cycle: evaluation: 5 questions and answers
These are the quiz’s questions. Do the quiz first, then come back here for the ones that got you.
What is the new system compared with during evaluation?
Each requirement is checked.
Which is considered when evaluating a solution?
Along with efficiency and appropriateness.
What may evaluation lead to?
Limitations are identified and put right.
Who provides feedback on how easy the system is to use?
They work with it every day.
When does evaluation take place?
The system has to be in use first.
Quiz
5 questions
Tap an answer and you’ll see straight away whether it’s right, and why.
Worksheet
2 questions, 5 marks. Write your answers on paper, then check them.
The systems life cycle: evaluation
Cambridge IGCSE Information & Communication Technology 0417 · 5 marks · papermunch.org
Name ______________________________ Date ______________
State three things that are considered when a new system is evaluated.[3]
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The efficiency of the solution. How easy it is to use. How appropriate it is for the task. (Also: whether it meets the original requirements.)
Describe two ways of finding out what users think of a new system.[2]
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Interview some of the users. Give all the users a questionnaire. (Also: observe them using the system.)
Answers: The systems life cycle: evaluation
- 1. The efficiency of the solution. How easy it is to use. How appropriate it is for the task. (Also: whether it meets the original requirements.)
- 2. Interview some of the users. Give all the users a questionnaire. (Also: observe them using the system.)