Costs in a system inventory Identify what the sources of costs might be. Actual
ID: 3761959 • Letter: C
Question
Costs in a system inventory
Identify what the sources of costs might be. Actual costings are not part of this exercise. Always be on the lookout for the hidden costs that can turn an apparent saving into an actual loss. This includes costs for the BPI team, development, quality assurance, testing, parallel operations during transition, implementation. It should also include any ongoing maintenance or administrative costs.
Consider the impact upon the operation due to the implementation. This would include productivity losses or the need to hire temporaries to cover for personnel while training.
Explanation / Answer
Again, this is dependent on a variety of factors including:
the skills and experience of the staff involved;
the priority and commitment by the organization;
the implementation strategy; and
the status of data compilation.
System Evaluations
Evaluating alternative hardware and software solutions is normally conducted in several stages. Initially a number of candidate systems are identified.
Justifying the System Acquisition
The proper justification of the chosen system requires consideration of several factors. Typically a cost-benefit analysis is undertaken to analyze the expected costs and benefits of acquiring a system
System Acquisition and Start Up
After the system, e.g. hardware, software, and data, is acquired the start up phase begins. This phase should include pilot projects. Pilot projects are a valuable means of assessing progress and identifying problems early, before significant resources have been wasted.
Operational Phase
The operational phase of a GIS implementation involves the on-going maintenance, application, and development of the GIS. The issue of responsibility for the system and liability is critical.