System Implementation

System Implementation is to translate the design document into a software product that can be
used to carry out the intended processing tasks
Activities Undertaken during system Implementation/Sequential Checklist
i. Coding
ii. Testing
iii. Hardware Installation
iv. File Conversion
v. Documentation
vi. Changeover
vii. Staff Training

1. Coding:

• Develop software components/modules according to design specifications and coding

standards.
• Follow a modular approach, focusing on single responsibility principle and code
reusability.
• Document code changes and maintain version control using a version control system
(e.g., Git).

2. Testing:

• Conduct various levels of testing including unit testing, integration testing, system
testing, and acceptance testing.
• Verify the functionality, performance, and reliability of the system.
• Document test cases, test results, and identified defects for further analysis and
resolution.

Types of Testing Techniques

i. Functional Testing:
a) Objective:
▪ Verify that the system functions according to the specified requirements.
b) Techniques:
▪ Equivalence Partitioning: Group input data into equivalent classes and test
representative values from each class.
▪ Boundary Value Analysis: Test boundary values of input ranges to
identify potential errors at the edges of valid ranges.
▪ Decision Table Testing: Create decision tables to systematically test
different combinations of input conditions and corresponding actions.
▪ State Transition Testing: Test the system's behavior as it transitions
between different states or modes.
ii. Non-Functional Testing:
 a) Objective:
▪ Assess the quality attributes of the system such as performance, reliability,
usability, and security.
b) Techniques:
▪ Performance Testing: Evaluate system response times, throughput, and
scalability under various load conditions using techniques like load
testing, stress testing, and scalability testing.
▪ Usability Testing: Assess the system's user interface design, navigation
flows, and overall user experience through user feedback, surveys, and
usability testing sessions.
▪ Security Testing: Identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses in the system's
security controls through techniques such as penetration testing,
vulnerability scanning, and security audits.
▪ Reliability Testing: Determine the system's ability to consistently perform
its intended functions over time without failure, often through techniques
like reliability modeling and fault injection.
iii. Integration Testing:
a) Objective:
▪ Verify the interactions and interfaces between different modules or
components of the system.
b) Techniques:
▪ Top-Down Integration Testing: Test higher-level modules first, simulating
lower-level modules with stubs.
▪ Bottom-Up Integration Testing: Test lower-level modules first, simulating
higher-level modules with drivers.
▪ Big Bang Integration Testing: Integrate all modules simultaneously and
test the entire system as a whole.
▪ Incremental Integration Testing: Integrate and test modules incrementally,
starting with the most critical or dependent modules first.
iv. System Testing:

Objective:

The primary goal of system testing is to validate the complete and integrated software
product against specified requirements. It focuses on verifying the behavior and
performance of the entire system under test conditions to ensure it meets the designed
specifications and behaves as expected.

v. System Acceptance Testing:

a) Objective:
▪ Validate whether the system meets the acceptance criteria and is ready for
deployment.
b) Techniques:
 ▪Alpha Testing: Conduct testing within the development environment using
in-house testers or developers.
▪ Beta Testing: Release the software to a limited group of external users to
gather feedback and identify any remaining issues before full deployment.
▪ User Acceptance Testing (UAT): Have end-users validate the system
against their requirements and expectations in a controlled environment.
vi. Regression Testing:
a) Objective:
▪ Ensure that changes or enhancements to the system do not adversely affect
existing functionality.
b) Techniques:
▪ Re-run previously executed test cases to validate that no regressions have
occurred due to recent changes.
▪ Prioritize test cases based on their criticality and impact on system
functionality.

3. Hardware Installation:

• Install necessary hardware components required for the system, such as servers, network
infrastructure, and peripherals.
• Ensure hardware compatibility and proper configuration to support the software system.
• Test hardware functionality and connectivity to verify proper installation.

4. File Conversion:

• Convert existing data files or formats to be compatible with the new system.
• Ensure data integrity and accuracy during the conversion process.
• Validate converted data against original sources to identify and rectify any discrepancies.

5. Documentation:

• Create comprehensive documentation for the system, including user manuals, technical
specifications, and installation guides.
• Document system architecture, design decisions, configuration settings, and operational
procedures.
• Ensure documentation is clear, concise, and accessible to all stakeholders.

Importance of Documentation

a) Reduce system down time

b) To cut on cost
c) To speed up maintenance (Adding changes, corrections; modifications)
d) Help the staff members who must modify the system eg Add new features or perform
maintenance
Types of System Documentation:

i. Requirements Documentation:
a) Captures stakeholder requirements, functional and non-functional specifications,
and acceptance criteria.
b) Includes requirements traceability matrices, use cases, user stories, and system
requirements specifications (SRS).
ii. Design Documentation:
a) Describes the architecture, design decisions, data models, and system
components.
b) Includes system architecture diagrams, UML diagrams (e.g., class diagrams,
sequence diagrams), and interface specifications.
iii. Technical Documentation:
a) Provides detailed technical information about the system implementation,
including code structure, algorithms, APIs, and database schemas.
b) Includes code documentation, API documentation, data dictionaries, and
configuration guides.
iv. User Documentation:
a) Aimed at end-users and provides guidance on system usage, features,
functionalities, and troubleshooting.
b) Includes user manuals, user guides, FAQs, and online help documentation.
v. Testing Documentation:
a) Documents testing strategies, test plans, test cases, and test results.
b) Includes test scripts, test logs, defect reports, and test summary reports.
vi. Deployment Documentation:
a) Provides instructions for installing, configuring, and deploying the system in
various environments.
b) Includes installation guides, deployment scripts, release notes, and environment
setup instructions.
vii. Maintenance Documentation:
a) Documents maintenance procedures, known issues, bug fixes, and change
management processes.
b) Includes release notes, change logs, bug tracking reports, and version control
documentation.

6. Changeover:

• Plan and execute the transition from the old system to the new system.
• Coordinate with users and stakeholders to minimize disruptions during the changeover
process.
• Implement changeover strategies such as parallel operations, phased deployment, or
direct cutover based on project requirements.
Types of system changeover Techniques

i. Direct Cutover (Big Bang):

a) Involves discontinuing the old system and immediately adopting the new system
at a specific point in time.
b) Suitable for small-scale projects or when downtime can be minimized.
c) High risk due to the sudden transition, potential for disruption, and limited
fallback options.
ii. Parallel Operation:
a) Runs the old and new systems concurrently for a certain period, allowing users to
gradually transition to the new system.
b) Low risk as users can revert to the old system if issues arise.
c) Requires extra resources and effort to maintain two systems simultaneously.
iii. Phased Rollout:
a) Implements the new system in phases or modules, gradually replacing the old
system over time.
b) Reduces risk by focusing on one component at a time and allowing users to adapt
gradually.
c) Requires careful planning and coordination to ensure smooth transitions between
phases.
iv. Pilot Operation:
a) Introduces the new system to a limited group of users or in a specific geographical
area before full deployment.
b) Allows for testing and feedback from a small user base before wider adoption.
c) Helps identify and address issues early, reducing risks during full deployment.
v. Staged Rollout:
a) Similar to phased rollout but with predefined stages or milestones for
implementing different components or functionalities.
b) Provides a structured approach to deployment, allowing for controlled progress
and validation at each stage.
c) Requires thorough planning and coordination to manage dependencies and ensure
alignment with project objectives.
vi. Hybrid Approach:
a) Combines multiple changeover techniques based on specific project requirements
and constraints.
b) Allows for flexibility and customization to address unique challenges or
preferences.
c) Requires careful planning and coordination to integrate different approaches
seamlessly.
vii. Sandbox Environment:
a) Sets up a separate environment where users can experiment with the new system
without affecting the production environment.
b) Provides a safe space for training, testing, and familiarization before full
deployment.
c) Helps build user confidence and mitigate risks associated with system adoption.
viii. Phased Withdrawal:
 a) Gradually phases out the old system components or functionalities as the new
system becomes fully operational.
b) Minimizes disruption by allowing users to transition gradually and adapt to
changes over time.
c) Requires coordination between old and new systems to ensure seamless
integration and data migration.

7. Staff Training:

Staff training is a critical component in the system development lifecycle. It ensures that all
personnel involved in the development, implementation, and maintenance of a system possess
the necessary knowledge and skills to perform their roles effectively. Effective training strategies
enhance productivity, reduce errors, and ensure the successful adoption of new systems and
technologies.

Objectives of Staff Training in System Development

i. Enhance Technical Proficiency: Equip staff with the technical skills required for system
development, implementation, and maintenance.
ii. Improve Problem-Solving Skills: Train staff to identify, analyze, and solve problems
efficiently during system development.
iii. Facilitate Smooth System Transition: Prepare employees for transitions to new systems
or technologies, minimizing resistance and downtime.
iv. Promote Best Practices: Instill best practices in system development, including coding
standards, documentation, and quality assurance.
v. Ensure Compliance: Ensure staff are aware of and comply with legal, regulatory, and
security requirements relevant to system development.

Key Components of Effective Training Programs

i. Needs Assessment: Evaluate the skills gap and design training programs that address
specific needs of the staff and project requirements.
ii. Customized Training Material: Develop training material tailored to the specific
technologies and methodologies used in the system development project.
iii. Hands-On Learning: Incorporate practical exercises, simulations, and project-based
learning to reinforce theoretical knowledge.
iv. Expert Instructors: Engage instructors with real-world experience in system
development to provide insights beyond textbook knowledge.
v. Continuous Learning: Encourage ongoing learning and professional development to
keep pace with technological advancements and industry trends.

Training Strategies for System Development

i. In-House Training: Conduct training sessions within the organization, focusing on

specific systems, technologies, or methodologies used.
 ii. Online Courses: Utilize online learning platforms and courses for flexible, self-paced
learning on a wide range of topics relevant to system development.
iii. Workshops and Seminars: Participate in external workshops, seminars, and conferences
to gain exposure to industry best practices and network with professionals.
iv. Mentorship Programs: Pair less experienced staff with seasoned mentors for guidance,
knowledge sharing, and skill development.
v. Cross-Functional Training: Train staff in roles and responsibilities outside their
expertise to promote a better understanding of the system development process as a
whole.

Challenges in Staff Training

i. Keeping Up with Technology: Rapid technological advancements make it challenging

to maintain current and relevant training materials.
ii. Resource Constraints: Limited budgets and time can restrict the ability to provide
comprehensive training.
iii. Measuring Effectiveness: Assessing the impact of training on staff performance and
system development outcomes can be difficult.
iv. Diverse Learning Styles: Accommodating different learning styles and preferences
within a training program requires careful planning and resources.

Best Practices for Staff Training

i. Align Training with Objectives: Ensure training programs are aligned with
organizational goals and project objectives.
ii. Interactive and Engaging Content: Use interactive training methods to engage
participants and enhance learning retention.
iii. Feedback and Evaluation: Collect feedback from participants and evaluate the
effectiveness of training programs to make continuous improvements.
iv. Support and Resources: Provide ongoing support and access to resources for staff to
continue learning and applying new skills.