ICT 0417 - Topic 7: The Systems Life Cycle

Objective: Know and understand identifying and justifying suitable hardware and software for a new system.

This section focuses on the crucial step within the systems life cycle where you identify and justify the selection of appropriate hardware and software for a new information system. This involves understanding the requirements of the system and matching them with available technologies, providing clear reasons for your choices.

1. Understanding System Requirements

Before selecting any hardware or software, it's essential to thoroughly understand the system's requirements. This involves:

• Defining the purpose of the system: What will the system be used for? (e.g., data processing, communication, entertainment)
• Identifying users: Who will be using the system? (e.g., number of users, their technical skills)
• Determining data requirements: What type of data will the system handle? (e.g., volume, format, security needs)
• Specifying performance requirements: How fast and efficient does the system need to be? (e.g., processing speed, response time)
• Considering scalability: Will the system need to accommodate future growth?
• Identifying security requirements: What measures are needed to protect the system and data?

2. Hardware Selection

Hardware refers to the physical components of a computer system. The selection process should consider the system requirements and budget. Key hardware components include:

• Central Processing Unit (CPU): The "brain" of the computer. Consider processing speed (GHz), cores, and cache.
• Memory (RAM): Used for temporary data storage. Consider capacity (GB) and speed (MHz).
• Storage (Hard Disk Drive/Solid State Drive): Used for permanent data storage. Consider capacity (TB), speed (RPM/SSD), and type.
• Input Devices: Devices used to enter data (e.g., keyboard, mouse, scanner).
• Output Devices: Devices used to display or present data (e.g., monitor, printer, speakers).
• Network Devices: Devices used for network connectivity (e.g., network card, router, switch).
• System Unit: The main case containing the core components. Consider form factor (tower, desktop, laptop).

Example Table: Hardware Selection for a Small Office System

Component	Specification	Justification
CPU	Intel Core i5 (10th Gen)	Provides a good balance of processing power and cost for general office tasks.
RAM	8GB DDR4	Sufficient for running common office applications smoothly.
Storage	256GB SSD	SSD provides faster boot times and application loading compared to a traditional HDD.
Monitor	24-inch LED	Provides a comfortable viewing experience for extended use.

3. Software Selection

Software refers to the programs that run on the hardware. The selection process should consider the system requirements, user needs, and compatibility with the hardware.

• Operating System (OS): Manages the hardware and software resources (e.g., Windows, macOS, Linux). Consider compatibility with applications and user familiarity.
• Productivity Software: Applications for creating and editing documents, spreadsheets, and presentations (e.g., Microsoft Office, Google Workspace).
• Specialized Software: Applications tailored to specific tasks (e.g., accounting software, graphic design software, database management systems).
• Security Software: Protects the system from threats (e.g., antivirus, firewall).

Example Table: Software Selection for a Small Office System

Software	Version	Justification
Operating System	Windows 11 Professional	Widely used, compatible with most applications, and offers good security features.
Productivity Suite	Microsoft 365	Provides access to Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, essential for office productivity.
Antivirus	Norton 360	Offers comprehensive protection against viruses, malware, and other security threats.

4. Justifying Choices

It's crucial to provide clear justifications for the selected hardware and software. This should include:

• Matching specifications to requirements: Explain how the chosen hardware and software meet the identified system requirements.
• Considering cost-effectiveness: Justify the choices in terms of value for money.
• Evaluating reliability and support: Consider the vendor's reputation and the availability of technical support.
• Assessing compatibility: Ensure that the chosen hardware and software are compatible with each other.
• Considering future-proofing: Choose technologies that are likely to remain relevant in the future.

By following these steps, you can effectively identify and justify suitable hardware and software for a new information system, demonstrating a thorough understanding of the systems life cycle.