Strategy for Implementation of New Information System: the case of a new airline reservation system


 


 


 


            It is identified that an airline company is introducing a new reservation system that will put terminals on the desks of numerous travel agents around the world. The system is designed and constructed and ready for operation. To successfully implement this system, there is a need for a strategy for implementation.


 


Implementation Strategy


            The use of the system is the result of combined efforts from meetings, planning sessions, deliverable reviews, prototypes, development, and testing. In the eve of implementing the new reservation system, the airline company must be able to anticipate and manage expected results and potential drawbacks. The general strategy to be used is based on the normal system implementation process involving system rollout, maintenance, documentation, system analysis, and social significance and implications. Other areas to be considered in the strategy formulation include training, change management, and other management mechanism.


            System Rollout. Identify the extent of the system implementation. Will it be implemented across the organization and all departments or selected only? It is also important to decide on the mode of implementation or how will it be rolled out? The consideration of four (4) alternative ways to introducing the new system in operation is important.


1)    Parallel running – This is the running of two systems at the same time with the purpose to verify output against each other. It includes the old and new systems work over a given period. The users of this approach are more comfortable and it carries lesser risks. On the contrary, data to be collected in both systems may bring confusion in terms of processing and analysis.


2)    Pilot sites – The new system is used within a subset of the organization or specific department and tested over a period of time. System implementers may consider if a part of the old system is to be used. This is also known as phased introduction. The advantage of this approach is the ability to pinpoint strong and weak points of the system and recommend for redevelopment. Among the other approaches, this has the least risks and being the most economical. But the problem on this approach is need two systems to work in a period, thus adding complication or complexity, and requires additional resources.


3)    Incremental installation –    It may start in linking small number of systems that will gradually increase over a period of specified time. The advantage is the presence of pointers for comparison and the use of manageable scale pilots for value-added services and new systems to work as well. The disadvantage of this approach lies on the fact that it need considerable amount of time for results as there are a lot of processes before any development may take place.


4)    Direct cut over or changeover– This is the complete change to the new system really quick. This may be introduced in emergency situations. However, this might be risky and includes complexities including the processes and resources to be utilized in its abrupt introduction.


On the case of the airline company, the incremental installation is recommended as there is a need for slow implementation provided that there is a need for users to be informed beforehand. Reservation is a very important airline function and an abrupt change in the process may affect the entire airline operations.


            Maintenance. There is a need to maintain the functions of the new system. Analyze its performance including its effectiveness and functionality. Improvements with new features are to be considered. People with advanced knowledge about the system must take charge.


            Documentation. Each of the development of the new system must be documented. Note important changes. Design, system, and user documentations are expected to be provided. These will help in the next level of strategy implementation – system analysis.


            System Analysis. Upon documentation, all information collected are studied and anticipate problems. If there are existing problems, focus on the design of the most applicable solution. It is always wise to remember that systems analysis is crucial and should be done constantly.


            Social significance and Implications. Is the system beneficial to the airline company? There should be an evaluation of the overall effects of the new system including the economic saving and overall applicability and effectiveness of the new reservation system.


            Other elements of the system implementation strategy include training of people who will handle the new system. The management of change is also important. Aside from the people who will handle the new reservation system, there is a need to inform all parties involved particularly the customers. A massive effort of information dissemination is recommended. Other managerial and organizational issues are to be addressed like for instance, firing or hiring of employees. In general, a system implementation strategy is case-to-case basis. It must be deliberate and based on the overall strategy of the organization that will use it and also the needs in the competing industry.



Credit:ivythesis.typepad.com


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