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Information Systems

Overview

  • Credit value: 15 credits at Level 7
  • Convenor: Dr Brian Gannon
  • Assessment: an online quiz (30%) and examination (70%)

Module description

In this module we describe approaches, processes, methodologies and techniques commonly used for large-scale enterprise information systems (EIS) development. We start with enterprise architecture and place the systems development activity in the context of the enterprise IT estate. We then cover the systems development life cycle (SDLC), including project initiation, analysis, design and deployment, addressing key challenges and techniques at each stage. Waterfall and agile approaches are described, and Scrum is presented in more detail as an example of a popular software development methodology. We cover typical activities in the operation of EIS and describe the DevOps role and function.

The module also incorporates insights into professional, legal and ethical issues associated with information systems, including the role of the information systems practitioner in society.

Indicative syllabus

  • Theories of information systems
  • EIS in everyday life
  • Agile and waterfall methodologies
  • The information systems development life cycle (SDLC)
  • Project initiation - identification and selection
  • Requirements analysis and high level design
  • Detailed design
  • EIS deployment (implementation)
  • EIS operations
  • EIS contracts, business planning and defective software
  • Data protection, freedom of information
  • Intellectual property rights
  • Computer misuse and information surveillance
  • Computer ethics

Learning objectives

By the end of this module, you should:

  • be familiar with the background and context of modern enterprise information systems
  • understand how enterprise information systems are designed, deployed and operated
  • be able to make informed professional decisions about approaches to EIS development
  • understand the theory, language and processes associated with the Scrum project management methodology
  • be familiar with practical aspects associated with a career as an IS professional, including roles, career paths and professional associations
  • be familiar with IS development contracts, and issues relating to intellectual property rights in systems design and development
  • be aware of current and emerging UK and EU legal and regulatory initiatives in the digital world, and how they impact on system design
  • demonstrate a deeper awareness of the role of the IS practitioner in society.