Professional Documents
Culture Documents
2004 Software Design and Development Notes JemPage
2004 Software Design and Development Notes JemPage
Advantages Disadvantages
Direct Conversion Direct conversion can be achieved very quickly, thus reducing the Direct conversion requires the data in the old system to be converted
downtime of the system. It is also the easiest method when compatible for use with the new system. It is also a problem-laced method if
hardware and software exists in both systems. Information Technology is being introduced for the first time.
Also, if the new system fails or problems arise, the old system is not
available as a backup.
Parallel Conversion Both the new and the old systems are fully operational for a period of time, Parallel conversion adds to the workload of participants using the
allowing comparison of the two. This allows for the new system to be systems, as all processes must be carried out (at least) twice. It also
tested with a real-world set of data, which can be compared to the old requires participants to be fully trained in the new system before its
system. Also, if the new system fails, the old can continue with a implementation.
minimum loss of data, as both systems are kept up-to-date.
Phased Conversion Phased conversion allows for each module of a new system to be Some modules may be incompatible with the old system existing
individually tested and evaluated with real-world data. It also allows for before other modules are introduced. (eg: introducing a DBMS to
staff to gradually acclimatise to the new system. Finally, if a single module replace a card file system the digital data will be incompatible with
fails, that module can be removed and corrected, without great loss to the the card file.)
remainder of the new system. Phased Conversion may also lead to confusion as to which system is
being used for what.
Pilot Conversion If a new system fails in pilot conversion, the old system continues with a If a system undergoing pilot conversion does fail, the data in the new
minimal loss of data. Pilot conversion also allows for the new system to be system is lost. It can also lead to some confusion as to which system is
tested with real-world data as a complete system, and allows participants being used for what.
in the system to train others in its use.