Direct Changeover: This involves completely replacing the old system with the new system overnight.
Characteristics: The old system is decommissioned immediately after the new system is installed. All data is migrated at the same time.
Benefits: It's the quickest and potentially cheapest method in the short term. There's no period of running both systems.
Drawbacks: It's the riskiest method. If there are problems with the new system, the entire organization is affected immediately, potentially leading to significant disruption and data loss. Requires extensive testing beforehand.
Parallel Running: The old and new systems run simultaneously for a period.
Characteristics: Both the old and new systems are used to process data. Data is compared to ensure accuracy.
Benefits: Minimizes disruption as users can continue using the familiar old system if problems arise with the new one. Allows for thorough testing and validation of the new system.
Drawbacks: It's the most expensive method as it requires maintaining two systems concurrently. It can be complex to manage and requires significant resources.
Pilot Running: The new system is implemented in a limited area or with a small group of users before being rolled out to the entire organization.
Characteristics: A controlled environment for testing and identifying issues. Feedback is gathered from pilot users.
Benefits: Allows for early identification and resolution of problems before a full-scale rollout. Reduces the risk of widespread disruption. Provides valuable user feedback.
Drawbacks: The pilot group may not be representative of the entire organization, so issues identified in the pilot may not occur in the wider implementation. Can delay the overall implementation process.
Phased Implementation: The new system is implemented in stages, with different parts of the organization or different functions using the system at different times.
Characteristics: Allows for a gradual transition to the new system. Each phase can be tested and refined before the next phase begins.
Benefits: Reduces disruption by limiting the impact of any problems to a specific area. Allows for better resource allocation and training.
Drawbacks: Can be more complex to manage than direct changeover. Requires careful planning and coordination between phases. May require temporary integration between the old and new systems during the transition periods.