Question

Compare and contrast direct conversion and parallel conversion, pilot conversion, phased conversion, and simultaneous conversion.

Answer 1

Answer-

Compare and contrast direct conversion and parallel conversion- Both conversion strategies focus on the way in which users are switched over to the new system. Direct conversion is an abrupt change: the old system is 'unplugged' and the new system is turned on. The users have no choice but to work with the new system. In the parallel conversion strategy, the new system is turned on, but the old system is used simultaneously for a time. Clearly, the direct strategy is more risky because there is no feedback if significant system bugs are discovered. With parallel conversion, the old system will still be available if there is a major bug discovered in the new system. However, the cost and extra work of using both systems simultaneously must be considered.   Compare and contrast pilot conversion, phased conversion, and simultaneous conversion- These terms refer to how the organizational locations are transitioned from the old system to the new system. In a pilot conversion, one location or part of the organization is converted first. The system is installed at that location and is used for a time until it appears to be stable (initial bugs discovered and fixed). Then the system is installed at the other locations. The pilot location serves as a shakedown site for the system. In the phased conversion approach, the system is installed sequentially at different locations. Gradually, the conversion process spreads across all locations until all have been converted. Simultaneous conversion means that all locations are converted at the same time. With this strategy, there is no period in which some locations are using the old system and other locations are using the new system.