Jesse wants me to recommend a data conversion plan and a changeover method for TIMS. She also wants a plan for post-implementation review, including fact-gathering methods, topics to cover, the timing of the review, and who should perform it.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Data conversion principles and concepts are discussed on pages 543 – 546. Students should apply these principles when they recommend a data conversion plan.

Changeover for the TIMS system presents certain issues. Because the new system is aimed at a single location with multiple activities and functions, phased and pilot operation might not be attractive. Parallel operation is possible, using current data to test the new system for some period of time before the new center becomes operational. Even this method would be less than ideal, because all training activities, records, and reports are tightly integrated in the new system.

Although SCR had done training on a smaller scale, the new training center is essentially a startup operation. In this type of situation, a form of direct cutover is often the only alternative. Using test data and extensive system testing, users and developers can increase the confidence level to an acceptable point. First, all existing data should be converted, loaded into the new system, and used as test data. All source documents should be retained in case of system problems, and all hardware, backup, and disaster recovery procedures should be tested thoroughly.

Students will need to determine a reasonable time frame (perhaps three to six months) for the post-implementation evaluation to take place. A suggestion of methods and topics to be included follows: