Data Conversion Khoo Kay Vin Data Conversion Convert

Data Conversion Khoo Kay Vin

Data Conversion • Convert Computer data from one format to another. Example: • Words (. docx to. pdf ) • Image (. jpeg to. png ) • Audio (. mp 3 to. AAC ) • Video (. avi to. mpeg 4 )

Data Conversion (cont. ) • move information from one system to another or one application to another. • fundamental differences in systems designed by different manufacturers. • information like names addresses and phone numbers transfer fairly easily • there always some square pegs that simply wont fit in the round holes.

Data Conversion (cont. ) • 4 methods of data conversions • Advantages & Disadvantages Case: • A school, purchased new scheduling and accounting system based on database system that incompatible with the existing system.

4 method of data conversion • • Direct Conversion ( plunge , direct cutover ) Parallel Operation Approach Pilot Operation Approach Phase-in Approach

Direct Conversion ( plunge , direct cutover )

Direct Conversion ( plunge , direct cutover ) • Least desirable approach • Stop old system, and start new system on a given date • In this approach the old system ceases and the new system commences • It is the cheapest of the four options, but it is the most risky. • Once in operation, do not have the old system to fall back on. What happens if the new system has problems? • There is no back-up and data could be lost. • In an extreme case the organisation could suffer significant financial loss. • The direct cutover approach is normally used for the implementation of a purchased or standard system, where the chances of failure are low.

Parallel Operation Approach

Parallel Operation Approach • In this approach both the old and new systems run together for a period of time. • It is only when any problems with the new system are identified and corrected that the old system is retired. • This is an expensive approach as everything is duplicated. • Can result in user resentment as there is an extra workload. • However, risk is minimised and a parallel operation changeover strategy would be recommended if we cannot afford to except any risk. • Best method for converting a manual to a computer system.

Pilot Operation Approach

Pilot Operation Approach • In this approach the new system is implemented in only one part of an organisation (i. e. in a pilot/test site). • The old system continues to operate in the other parts of the organisation. • Any problems with the new system are identified and corrected at the pilot/test. • Once this has occurs the new system can be implemented across the whole organisation, probably using a direct cutover approach. • Pilot operation becomes an option when a new system is to be implemented in a series of sites or departments. • Can result in long conversion times.

Phase-in Approach (piecemeal approach)

Phase-in Approach (piecemeal approach) • • In this approach the new system is implemented 'module' by 'module'. -eg. Accounting packages are appropriate: -accounts receivable -accounts payable -inventory -sales -payroll The whole organisation receives parts of the system in stages. The risk of failure is restricted to only part of the system being implemented. This approach is incremental and is less costly than parallel changeover. It is an option when a system can be broken up into self contained modules. The changeover of each module could be carried out by direct cut-over or by parallel operation. Users become familiar with the new system little-by-little before having to fully rely on it Can also result in long conversion times.

Case: A school, purchased new scheduling and accounting system based on database system that incompatible with the existing system. Choose a method that does not impact the students in any negative manner. • From the above discussion about all four possible approaches, it is very clear that data cutover and parallel operation approach alone is not suitable. Due to the drawbacks like high risk or high cost but the combination of both approaches namely pilot operation and phased operation approaches is more fruitful. • Still phased operation is not most suitable approach as we know there are lot of phases involve in the information system and also very costly. So conclusion is pilot operation is the most recommended approach for the school because this method is cheaper and safer method.

References: • Shelly, Cashman & Rosenblatt, Systems Analysis and Design, 6 th Edition, 8 th Edition, Course Technology, 2006, 2010. • http: //149. 144. 200/subjects/IS/sem 22010/lectures /l 111 implementation. html • http: //en. wikipedia. org/wiki/Parallel_adoption • http: //www. scribd. com/doc/396849/Developing. Business. IT-Solutions