A level revision

Evaluation

The evaluation of the new system, sometimes called the post implementation review, is an examination of the system 3-6 months after it has been put into operation. The timing of the evaluation is somewhat critical - waiting 3-6 months allows the end users to get to know the system, it allows any problems to surface and it also allows the system to handle any 'month end' periods where lots of reports may be complied at the end of the month (e.g. for a payroll). Doing the evaluation too soon after the system has been put into practice is useless!

The purpose of the evaluation stage in systems development is not only to get feedback from the end users who have been using the system but also for the developers to find out any problems or improvements that can be made to any future system. The final solution is evaluated on its usability, maintainability and effectiveness. The evaluation document may include the following:

• any benefits or problems of the new system
• errors which were made in the implementation or design stages
• a comparison of the final system with the objectives set out in the specification
• feedback from end users, management and technical staff.