Wells Computer Consultants Ltd

SSADM is a standard method for the Analysis and Design of Information Systems in the United Kingdom. The method was adopted in 1981 by the UK government as the mandatory method for government projects and it is now used in the private sector. SSADM is prescriptive because the structure provides a rigorous approach to determining the logic of the required system. There is, however, considerable flexibility within the method and it can be tailored for the circumstances of each project.

The Chapter at Wells Cathedral where the Diocesan decisions are made. SSADM supports the business decision making process. info@wccl.co.uk

The underlying principles of SSADM are to ensure that the requirements for an Information System are fully specified. SSADM does this by breaking each project into stages. Each stage requires a different set of skills from the Business Systems Analyst and produces 'products' (specifications) which can be understood by non-technical business users of the proposed system and which are then used as input into the next stage. By involving business users at each project stage the risk of producing the 'wrong' system is reduced considerably and business decisions on how or if a project should proceed can be taken. Completeness and consistency of the 'products' at the end of each project stage can be checked at formal reviews.

Determination of the business objectives and the logic of how they are to be achieved is a key element of SSADM. The early stages of a SSADM project are concerned with the specification of the requirements and the logic. The later stages address how a system should be designed to implement the business logic. The abstraction of the logical elements of a system, from what might be (or is in the case of an existing system) the physical implementation, allows all concerned the opportunity to address one problem at a time without the early imposition of physical constraints. Once the logical stages are complete the expertise of the developers can be used to determine what are the best options for implementing the required system.

The structured approach of SSADM allows the Business Systems Analysts to represent their understanding of the required logic of a system in the form of easily understood text and diagrams. The documentation forms the basis for good communication between technical and non-technical staff. Breaking a project into stages and tasks means that the skills that are available can be better utilised. SSADM stages and steps lend themselves easily to project planning. Informed decisions can be taken on the direction of the project at each stage of the project. By involving business users of the system at each stage the documentation and developed knowledge is comprehensive and no longer concentrated with one person or small group. Approval by the users of the proposed system at the end of each project stage increases confidence that the system developed is what is required.

The British Computer Society certificates SSADM practitioners based on examination results and interview of prospective candidates. To find out more about SSADM and how it can assist your business contact Wells Computer Consultants Ltd. Click on the email address below.