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Software Modification, RFP, Prototyping, Agile Systems

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• Course Textbook
• Brown, C. V., DeHayes, D. W., Hoffer, J. A., Martin, E. W., & Perkins, W. C. (2012). Managing information technology
• (7th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall.

1. Why is making a lot of modifications to a packaged system sometimes a risky approach, and what are the alternatives?

2. Briefly describe the steps of a pure prototyping methodology as an alternative to an SDLC approach. Which disadvantages of an SDLC methodology are addressed by a prototyping approach?

3. What is an RFP, and what critical tasks does it facilitate in the purchasing process?

4. Describe the underlying principles of agile systems development methodologies.

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Solution Summary

This detailed solution, based on questions from the Brown, DeHayes, Hoffer, Martin, & Perkins (2012)Managing Information Technology text, discusses the underlying principles of agile systems development methods, defines RFP and the critical tasks it facilitates, a description of pure prototyping and the problem with modifying packaged software solutions, as well as alternative approaches. This solution is APA formatted and includes reference.

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1. Why is making a lot of modifications to a packaged system sometimes a risky approach, and what are the alternatives?

Making a lot of modifications to a packaged system is sometimes a risky approach for several reasons. It may be hard to find programmers who are willing or able to expertly modify code. Packaged software companies often include agreements with the purchase of their product that prohibits modification or voids manufacturer's support. In addition, it may be difficult to track changes, creating problems going forward. Also, modifications may cause control issues and create unintended errors in the program. Brown, DeHayes, Hoffer, Martin, and Perkins (2012) also point to the problem of rapid changes in business and technology environments, creating a "ripple effect" that cause additional errors. The authors also state that "most IS professionals prefer to work on new systems using new technologies rather than maintain old systems" (p.369). Modifying software also increases the cost of operation, eliminating the savings and ease of purchasing packaged software. An alternative to modifying software is developing custom software for the outlined needs ...

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