Management of Software Systems Course Information
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MGT 5150 Management of Software Systems
Course Description
Explores management's consideration of functional requirement specifications, design, development, implementation, and maintenance of computer-based software systems that provide information technology-related services to organizations.
The management of the development of computer software is much more than the production of programs to make a computer do what you want it to do. It is, basically and frankly, the art of managing intelligent, creative people, and obtaining results that are manifested in the successful operation of computer programs.
This course will explore the considerations inherent in developing software for computer-based systems with special emphasis on the people and techniques required. A variety of management techniques and ideas appropriate to this environment will be discussed. The student is expected to review current literature in the field and to understand and report intelligently their findings in this light.
We will not be programming a computer or writing software in this course, so no programming background is required. We will, however, discuss in depth the processes of programming and the interaction required for its success.
Course Objectives
Upon completion of this course, students should be able to
- Explain the Systems Development Lifecycle (SDLC) and understand its use in the development of computer software
- Discuss and understand the issues surrounding the management of information technology professionals
- Explain the role of senior management in the SDLC process
- Explain the problems found in software development and the solutions to them
Week 1
Lecture: Course Introduction
Lecture: Developing Software
Outcomes
- Discuss why software is developed
- Explain the critical success factors in software development
- Discuss why software projects fail
- Explain the Software Development Lifecycle
Week 2
Lecture: Problem Definition
Outcomes
- Differentiate between problems and symptoms
- Discuss feasibility analysis
- Explain the requirements of definition techniques
- Explain the early steps in project planning
Week 3
Lecture: Systems Analysis
Outcomes
- Explain the concept of systems analysis
- Discuss the tools and methods used in the analysis process
- Explain the benefits of developing alternate solutions
- Explain the process of change control
- Discuss the importance of quality in software development
Week 4
Lecture: Design Phase
Outcomes
- Explain the system design process and its elements
- Discuss the project planning elements done in parallel with the design process
- Explain the tools used in the design process
Week 5
Lecture: Programming
Outcomes
- Explain detailed module design
- Discuss the programming and testing process
- Explain how to organize project staff
Week 6
Lecture: System Test, Implementation and Acceptance
Outcomes
- Recognize the parallel nature of test plan development
- Explain how to develop test cases
- Describe the conversion process and how to choose the appropriate conversion method
- Explain the importance of a post-implementation review
- Describe the acceptance process
Week 7
Lecture: Managing Software Developers
Outcomes
- Discuss the facets of an IT professional's mentality
- Discuss the different capabilities people have and how they need to be managed appropriately
- Explain the management practices that lead to success
Week 8
Lecture: Project Management
Outcomes
- Discuss the facets of project management and reporting
- Explain the unique problems of large projects
- Explain the issue of adding people to a late project
The course description, objectives and learning outcomes are subject to change without notice based on enhancements made to the course. November 2011
