Entry requirements

90 credits in information systems or equivalent

Learning outcomes

In terms of knowledge and understanding, after completed course the student should be able to:

- explain methods for systems development,

- describe the role of requirements specifications, conceptual models, and prototypes in systems design,

- explain the role of Software Process Improvement and Method Engineering/Tailoring in a systems development project,

- explain the importance of change management and communication in systems development projects,

- explain qualitative research methods and how they can be used to support systems development.

In terms of skills and abilities, after completed course the student should be able to:

- apply qualitative research methods in a systems development setting,

- create a conceptual model for design of digital practice,

- choose and apply project management methods based upon a systems development project,

- tailor a development method to a particular situation.

In terms of judgement and approach, after completed course the student should be able to:

- evaluate different design alternatives based upon criteria such as conceptual models and requirements specifications,

- evaluate different systems development approaches and make recommendations according to given criteria in a specific situation.

- evaluate and address concequences of a change process on an organisation.

Content

The first course in the program introduced students to digitalisation and digital practitice. This course builds upon the first course by providing deeper insight into how digital practitices can be designed based on the needs of the organisation. Central to this process is the practice of systems development, where systems in this case are holistically defined as technically implemented social systems. Thus, systems development always involves an impact on individuals, work processes, and organisational activities, and cannot be regarded as solely technical (IT) projects. Thus, systems development is a larger concept than software development, and always includes project management, and change management and communication. The main focus of the course is on design thinking and management of the design process.

The course starts with a general overview of management of systems development and various philosophical perspectives on system development, e.g., human-computer interaction (HCI), software engineering (SE) and information systems development (ISD). A historical overview of systems development approaches, up to today's commonly used approaches, is provided. Fundamental methods and techniques relating to the systems development process, such as conceptual modeling, ontology techniques, and prototyping, as well as method tailoring, are also covered. The course also covers basic principles for project management for systems development, quality improvement through process improvement (e.g., CMMi, Spice), as well as basic principles for change management. Finally, other development options, such as offshoring, outsourcing and open sourcing, as well as their implications for the organisation's activities, are discussed.

The course contributes to the research methods stream of the program by introducing students to qualitative research methods, and how a research-based approach can be used in systems development. Student will practice their skills by applying qualitative research methods within a project.

Instruction

Lectures, seminars, and supervision.

Assessment

Seminars, written exam, and assignments. Compulsory attendance is required for some elements.

If there are special reasons for doing so, an examiner may make an exception from the method of assessment indicated and allow a student to be assessed by another method. An example of special reasons might be a certificate regarding special pedagogical support from the University's disability coordinator or a decision by the department's working group for study matters.