What processes are used to identify the functions an information system must perform?

Requirements analysis is a critical process used in the development of information systems to determine the specific needs and functions that the system must fulfill. This phase involves gathering comprehensive information from stakeholders, including users, management, and IT staff, to clearly define what the system is intended to achieve. By analyzing these requirements, developers can create a system that aligns with organizational goals and user needs.

Through requirements analysis, organizations can identify functional requirements (what the system should do) as well as non-functional requirements (how the system performs tasks, such as security, usability, and reliability). This process sets the groundwork for effective design, development, and implementation of the information system, ensuring it meets specified needs and provides value to the organization.

Other processes, while relevant to information system development, serve different purposes. Agile development focuses on iterative development and responsiveness to change rather than the initial identification of functions. Information asset inventory is about cataloging the assets that an organization holds, which is not the same as analyzing requirements. Rapid Application Development (RAD), on the other hand, emphasizes quick development and prototyping, which occurs after requirements have been established. Thus, the selection of requirements analysis as the means to identify necessary functions is foundational and essential in creating effective information systems.