Joint Application Design

Joint Application Development

System analysis use many methods and techniques to determine the function of information within an organization. As technology progresses techniques have become more structured. This paper will describe how join application design (JAD) might be considered a better information gathering tool than the traditional method of requirements gathering. Also included will be a brief discussion of JAD shortcomings.

JAD is considered a modern method used to determine a systems requirements. Traditional methods of analysis included questionnaires, observations, and interviews. Though considered traditional methods, they are still used today to collect important information. When these methods are used in conjunction with additional techniques they are considered modern methods. Joint application design is an effective information collection technique. Not only can JAD reduce the required analysis time but it can do it while collecting and structuring data.

JAD was introduced as a way to involve key personnel in the analysis development process. Gathering these personnel for JAD sessions allows issues to be addressed and for any conflict to be resolved in a face to face setting. Participants of a JAD session generally include the JAD session leader, Users, Managers, Sponsors, system analysts, a scribe, and IS staff. These sessions can last hours or even up to a week.

Cost is a big shortcoming to the JAD method. Gathering all involved personnel in the same physical location can be expensive. In addition to airfare and travel expenses is the cost of hotel, food, and transportation for an extended amount of time. Another challenge can be time management. Participants have to be cautions of the allotted time frame that they have to argue their position. Consideration must be given that everyone be given the opportunity to express their input. The payoff of the JAD session is a detailed blueprint for a new system and a detailed exam of current...