What begins the development cycle of an information system?

The development cycle of an information system begins with the planning and analysis phase. This initial phase is crucial as it lays the foundation for the entire project. During this phase, stakeholders identify the needs for the information system, assess the current environment, and define the objectives and scope of the project.

Involving comprehensive analysis allows for gathering requirements from end-users and understanding the existing processes that need to be improved or automated. This groundwork ensures that the subsequent phases—design, implementation, testing, and evaluation—are based on a clear understanding of what the system is intended to achieve. Thus, the planning and analysis phase is essential for aligning the project with business goals and ensures a structured approach for developing an effective information system.