LIM, MARYLYN GRACE C.

OOA

            Book: Systems Analysis and Design: an Active Approach

            Author: George M. Marakas

            Reference No.: QA

                                    76.9

                                    S88

                                    M37

                                    2001

Chapter 10: Designing the System Output

Quote: “Computers are useless, they can only give you answer”

Review:

            Output is one of the most important things in SAD. This represents the universal goal of IS. Now, in this chapter, this will discuss about the designing of the system output. The primary objective of an output design is to create an output that presents the desired information to the users in an understandable and usable fashion way in requiring the least effort on the part of the users to obtain it.

            There are 8 characteristics of a system output. 1.) Purpose. In system output, an effective output design is dependent on knowing how the output is used. 2.) Recipient. Knowing who will be the recipients of the output can serve as information to the design. 3.) Frequency. This is important because if a designed output isn’t obtained when it’s needed, then it’s usefulness in assisting a given decision process becomes questionable. 4.) Distribution. In distribution, output is transferred from one place of data stored to another place of data stored. 5.) Date Source. Before an output can be designed, the data must exist within the system or accessible to the system. 6.) Format. This is the material effect on its usefulness to the user. 7.) Media. In media, output generated must be determined and designed and analyzed. 8.) Controls. Any contol associated with the generation and distribution of the output must be enforced prior to the generation of the output.

            There are 2 types of output. First is the external output. This leaves the boundary of the system and serves to confirm a system action and triggers an action on the part of a recipient. Second is the internal output. If in external output, it leaves the system boundary, in internal output, it stays within the system boundary and it supports the organizational responsibilities and activities of the users of the system.

            There are different devices use to generate system output and media available for recording the output. 1.) Hard Copy. This is also called a paper-based output. This is the common output media used. 2.) Screen Output. This has more advantage over hard copy. Like increased accessibility, reduce storage costs, provides real-time editing and modification, avoids unnecessary storage resources and avoids redundant and out of date printouts. 3.) Audio and video Output. This has the potential of richness in the communication of information that no other output media can. 4.) Computer output microfilm. This contains a roll of photographic film that contains a volume of hard-copy in miniature form. 5.) Robotic Output. Here, robots are used as vehicles for computer outputs intended to any application requiring precise and accurate handling of physical components.