The presentation to management at the end of the systems analysis phase is one of the
most critical milestones in the systems development process. At this point, managers
make key decisions that affect the future development of the system.
Prior to the management presentation, you might give two other presentations: one
to the principal individuals in the IT department to keep them posted, and another
presentation to users to answer their questions and invite feedback. The system
requirements document is the basis for all three presentations, and you should distribute the document (or a summary) in advance so the recipients can review it.
When preparing your presentation, you should review the suggestions in Part A of
the Systems Analyst’s Toolkit, which will help you design and deliver a successful
presentation. If you plan a slide presentation, you should review the Toolkit guidelines for effective presentations. In addition to the techniques found in the Toolkit,
also keep the following suggestions in mind:
• Begin your presentation with a brief overview of the purpose and primary objectives of the system project, the objectives of this presentation, and what decisions
need to be made.
• Summarize the primary viable alternatives. For each alternative, describe the
costs, advantages, and disadvantages.
• Explain why the evaluation and selection team chose the recommended alternative.
• Allow time for discussion and for questions and answers.
• Obtain a final decision from management or agree on a timetable for the next
step in the process.
The object of the management presentation is to obtain approval for the development
of the system and to gain management’s full support, including necessary financial
resources. Management probably will choose one of five alternatives: develop an in-house
system, modify a current system, purchase or customize a software package, perform