Determining Information System Requirements

This guide aims to help institutions plan and prepare for a computerized information system (IS). It is written from a business perspective and is intended for senior managers of MFIs. It also serves as a resource for board members, advisors and other stakeholders.

The guide is designed to help an organization conduct a needs analysis. The paper:

• Introduces the concept of an IS needs analysis, which prioritizes the organizations needs and establishes a framework to evaluate software options;
• Gives pointers on how to select members of the analysis team to ensure that a wide range of perspectives is represented in the process;
• Helps the organization to plan the needs analysis by establishing goals and objectives and defining the scope of work;
• Helps to create a project plan that includes a list of major tasks, work templates, time and staffing budgets and schedules.

The guide contains sample work templates to guide the organization through each step of the process. It also describes how its companion Needs Analysis tool can help organize and document the institution's analysis.