When should a systems analyst decide a design issue, and when should users be al

Question

When should a systems analyst decide a design issue, and when should users be allowed to
select what works best for them? The field of ergonomics is concerned with improving the
work environment and studying how users interact with their environment.
Suppose you are a systems analyst studying the order processing system at Boolean Toys, a
fast-growing developer of software for preschool children. You know that many data entry
users have complained about the input screens. Some users would prefer to rearrange the
order of the fields; others would like to change the background color on their screens; still
others want shortcuts that would allow them to avoid a series of introductory screens.
What if Boolean’s users could customize their own data entry screens without assistance
from the IT staff by using a menu-driven utility program? What would be the pros and cons of
such an approach?

Explanation / Answer

The first question is whether screen design is an ergonomic issue that can affectproductivity and user satisfaction. Clearly, screens that are attractive, well laid out, andintuitive are likely to please users who will probably make fewer input errors and be moreproductive. What about users designing their own screens? Is it okay to permit some degreeof personal preference or should a standard policy be used? Ask students what they think.The best answer might be “it depends.” A systems analyst’s job typically is to set theboundaries for individual preference. If possible, users should be allowed to control theirwork environment as long they do not adversely affect the information system, the data itself,or other users.

The key question involves the issue of user-driven design. As the textbook points out, the bestresults usually occur when users manage their own information needs. Unfortunately, it isdifficult to design a system that is both powerful and flexible enough for users to operatewithout special training and support. To get a better idea of what users really want, you canask, “If you could design your own screens, what would they look like?” Depending on theresponses, it might be possible either to build in the specific elements or, even better, todesign screens that would give users some flexibility as to the look and feel. Many companiesallows users to customize their Microsoft Windows interface by selecting background colors,icon arrangement, and similar visual design features that do not affect data security orintegrity issues.

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