XSIQ
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Information Technology - The planning phase

The Planning Phase

When radio station 3RRR made a major transition from an outdated network
to the installation and configuration of a new networked information
system, Kath Letch, RRR Station Manager, oversaw the implementation. View a
video that explores what the planning stage of this project involved.

There are many factors which may prompt change within organisations. Some
examples include:

* a change in government policy

* the introduction of new, or amendment to existing, legislation

* market trends

* community attitudes and values

* availability and cost of equipment

* desire for increased competitiveness

* employment agreements

* health and safety.

Regardless of the reason, the development of any computer based
information system should receive careful planning. Proper planning is
important as it allows:

* the scope of the project to be defined

* potential problem areas to be identified

* the sequence of the tasks to be identified

* for the provision of a basis for control.

The planning phase will normally follow a sequence of steps including:

* recognising the problem

* defining the problem

* setting project objectives

* identifying constraints

* conducting feasibility studies

* creating project proposals

* establishing control mechanisms.

A GANTT chart may be used to assist in the planning of a new system.

Note - the planning that takes places in this process is not the planning
of the program or system, rather, it is the initial steps that take place
to define the project and set the objectives that will be used to evaluate
the overall success of the final solution.

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