Definition of Feasibility (study or analysis in information systems)

1 Feasibility refers to the availability of the necessary resources to carry out the stated objectives or goals. Generally the feasibility is determined on a project.

2 (feasibility study). The feasibility study is one of the first stages in the development of a computer system.

The study includes the objectives, scope and restrictions on the system, as well as a high-level logic model of the current system (if it exists). From this, alternative solutions for the new system are created, analyzing for each of these different types of feasibility.

Types of feasibilities

Basically the feasibility types are:

* Technical feasibility: if the necessary technology for the system exists or is within reach. Does the appropriate technology exist? can we access this? improve the current system?

* Economic feasibility: cost-benefit ratio of making the system. Questions such as Is the development of this system worth the investment? is there any benefit? What are the costs of each stage? how long will it take to develop?

* Operational or organizational feasibility: if the system can work in the organization. Questions are answered as the organization can sustain the system? how to work after implementation? is it really necessary to the system? Do we have staff who know how to handle it?

For each feasible solution, a preliminary planning of its implementation is presented.

These results are delivered to the management, who are the ones who approve or not the implementation of the computer system.

The feasibility study is a task that is usually organized and carried out by systems analysts. The study consumes approximately between 5% and 10% of the total estimated cost of the project, and its preparation period varies depending on the size and type of system to be developed.

Feasibility study within the life cycle of a computer system

The feasibility study is the first stage in the development cycle of a computer system.

For more information read: Life cycle of a computer system.

General objectives of a feasibility study

The feasibility study should have the following purposes:

– Determine the objectives of the system with respect to the objectives of the organization or company. Is the system capable of solving the objectives set out in the project?

– Determine what resources the company is willing to provide. The entire project can founder if the organization or company does not provide the necessary resources.

– Allow to reduce errors and increase precision on costs, resources and processes in general during the development of the system.

– Determine what costs will be reduced by eliminating or optimizing resources that will not be necessary for the future development and operation of the system.

– Determine in what aspects the services of the company or organization will be improved, if areas of the same will be integrated and if the execution times of tasks and procedures will be reduced.