Tuesday, July 15, 2008

Best practices in IT/IS

I was searching the net for a few hours already and I can't find any other clear source for this topic than the website where the other students who posted before me, got the basis for their answer. So just a foreword, I used as the basis for my reply to this topic. http://www.portlandonline.com/auditor/index.cfm?a=13026&c=27102

Anyways, I found 23 best practices when it comes to information systems. But I will just site the top 5 best practices (according to myself).

5. Know your business processes.

Why? It’s the first step in creating systems. Knowing the business processes in and out can enable the developer to create a system that would be an asset to the company. What I am trying to say is that if the developer knows the business processes well, he can devise a plan that will be of much use and effective.

4. Insist on thorough data collection and documentation.

Why? Collecting data for the requirements of the system is an essential part. In more complex systems when even a single piece of data is incorrect or not collected, it can result to system failure or the output becomes inconsistent or incorrect.

3. Prepare a system implementation plan early.

By doing so, the system will be made much faster. Also, a clear, direct plan on what the system would be can lessen time and effort. There will be clear lists to what data needs to be collected or what resources will be used.

2. Involve users early and often.

Why? Because the users or entities aren't knowledgeable or in tune with what are the capabilities and characteristics of the system. Involving the users in making or testing the system may lessen or totally zero out the possibility of such failure to occur. And an additional factor is that the system would be used at its best features and capability.

1. Test.

Testing not only once but a couple of times can make a more efficient system. Why? Because, certain logical errors can be traced or certain "touch-ups" to make the system much effective can be done. One can see the strength and weakness of the system by continuously checking and testing it.

2 comments:

meL said...

The top 5 practices you chose are the main/major practices that must be done by a developer, for very same the reasons that you gave.

simple living said...

best practice sin IT/IS.??? I think that IT professionals (char.!) lke us should practice these things so that later we it can be a habit for us. Making this a habit will surely improve our skills.