GCSE Digital Technology 1.1.4.2 Implementation of Digital System

What is the Pilot Method of system conversion?

• A complete and immediate switch to a new system
• Running the new system alongside the old system until issues are resolved
• Implementing the new system in a small part of the organisation before full deployment
• Phasing out the old system in stages

Answer explanation

The Pilot Method allows a small-scale implementation in one department or branch before a full rollout.

What is the Parallel Method of system conversion?

• A small part of the organisation uses the new system first
• Both the old and new systems run at the same time until the new system is reliable
• The new system is implemented immediately, and the old system is discontinued
• Employees are gradually trained before switching systems

Answer explanation

The Parallel Method runs both systems simultaneously until the new one is confirmed to be working properly.

What is the ‘Big Bang’ Method of system conversion?

• The old system is gradually replaced over time
• The new system is implemented in one department before full rollout
• The old system is switched off completely, and the new system is implemented immediately
• The new system is introduced in phases

Answer explanation

The Big Bang Method involves an immediate switch, with no overlap of the old and new systems.

Which of the following is NOT true about the Pilot Method?

• It allows adjustments before a full-scale rollout
• If the new system fails, the entire company is impacted
• A small part of the company tests the new system first
• Staff from the pilot test can help train others

Answer explanation

The Pilot Method limits risk, meaning failure only affects a small part of the organisation, not the whole company.

Which of the following is NOT true about the Parallel Method?

• It is expensive due to the cost of running two systems at once
• It ensures the new system is reliable before the old system is turned off
• It completely replaces the old system immediately
• Users can compare the outputs from both systems

Answer explanation

The Parallel Method does not replace the old system immediately; instead, both systems run simultaneously.

Which of the following is NOT true about the ‘Big Bang’ Method?

• It has a shorter implementation time
• It is cost-effective
• It guarantees a backup system if something goes wrong
• It may not work efficiently until staff are trained

Answer explanation

The Big Bang Method does not provide a backup system; if the new system fails, there is no fallback.

Which of the following are advantages of the Pilot Method? *(Select all that apply)*

• Only a small part of the organisation is affected if something goes wrong
• It is the fastest way to implement a system
• Staff from the pilot test can help train others
• It is the cheapest method

Answer explanation

The Pilot Method reduces risk by affecting only a small area, and trained staff can help others later.

Which of the following are advantages of the Parallel Method? *(Select all that apply)*

• It allows users to return to the old system if problems arise
• It is the cheapest way to implement a new system
• The new system can be tested alongside the old system
• It eliminates confusion since only one system is used at a time

Answer explanation

The Parallel Method provides a backup by keeping the old system running and allows for direct comparison of outputs.

Which of the following are advantages of the ‘Big Bang’ Method? *(Select all that apply)*

• It is cost-effective
• It provides a backup system for security
• The new system is available immediately
• It has a shorter implementation time

Answer explanation

The Big Bang Method is quick and cost-effective but does not provide a backup system.

A large multinational bank wants to transition to a new customer management system but is worried about possible issues during implementation. They want to minimize risk while still ensuring the system works properly before full deployment. Which method should they use?

• Pilot Method
• Parallel Method
• Big Bang Method
• None of the above

Answer explanation

The Pilot Method minimizes risk by allowing a small-scale rollout before full implementation.