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Module Specifications

Archived Version 2017 - 2018

Module Title Systems Analysis
Module Code CA214
School School of Computing

Online Module Resources

Module Co-ordinatorMr Renaat VerbruggenOffice NumberL2.43
NFQ level 8 Credit Rating 5
Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Compatibles None
Incompatibles None
Description

The module will introduce students to the standard approaches of Structured Systems Analysis (using SSADM). This will include Business Activity Modelling, Data Flow Analysis,Logical Data Modelling,Realtional Data Analysis,Entity life History.

Learning Outcomes

1. appreciate the problems facing systems analysts in the work.
2. develop business activity models for a company.
3. describe software projects using logical data Analysis.
4. produce Data-flow descriptions of current and proposed applications.
5. assemble data for physical design using relational data analysis (normalisation).
6. model entity change using life history.
7. understand the transition from SSADM to UML



Workload Full-time hours per semester
Type Hours Description
Lecture24Presentation of tools and techniquesof SSADM
Laboratory24Using SSADM CASE tools on project
Independent Study80Project and reading
Total Workload: 128

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Students will study tools and techniques rather than the theory of Systems Analysis.
(Tools and Techniques)

Role and problems of Systems Analysis.
Discussion of issues.

Business Activity Modelling
Developing high-level business descriptions

Data Flow Diagrams.
Coverage of core technique and diagrams.

Logical Data Models.
Coverage of core technique and diagrams.

Entity Life History.
Coverage of core technique and diagrams.

Describing Process Logic - Mini-Specifications.
Structured methods.

Relational Data Analysis.
Normalisation.

Transtion from SSADM to UML.
Similarities and differences.

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment50% Examination Weight50%
Course Work Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories;
1 = A resit is available for all components of the module
2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module
3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
Unavailable
Indicative Reading List

  • Philip L. Weaver, Nick Lambrou, and Matthew Walkley: 2002, Practical business systems development using SSADM, Financial Times/Pearson International, Harlow, 9780273655756
  • Philip L. Weaver, Nick Lambrou and Matthew Walkley: 1998, Practical SSADM version 4+, Financial Times Pitman, London, 0273626752
  • Mark Lejk, David Deeks: 2002, An introduction to systems analysis techniques, Addison-Wesley, London, 0201797135
Other Resources

None
Programme or List of Programmes
CASEBSc in Computer Applications (Sft.Eng.)
ECSAStudy Abroad (Engineering & Computing)
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