Feasibility study contents: A feasibility document for an information-system project should include all of the following <em>except</em> which item?
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Aproject name
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Bproblem descriptions
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Cfeasible alternatives with costs and benefits
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Ddata-flow diagrams (detailed DFDs)
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ENone of the above
Answer
Correct Answer: data-flow diagrams (detailed DFDs)
Explanation
Introduction / Context:Feasibility studies evaluate whether a proposed system is worthwhile before substantial design and implementation work begins. Knowing what belongs—and what does not—keeps early documentation lean and decision-focused.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- A feasibility document should support a go/no-go decision.
- It summarizes scope, problems, alternatives, costs, benefits, risks, and constraints.
- Detailed design artifacts (for example, DFDs) are usually produced later during analysis/design phases.
Concept / Approach:Early documents emphasize business justification and outline solution paths. While high-level context diagrams may appear, detailed data-flow diagrams are typically premature and can bias decision makers or waste effort if the project is not approved.
Step-by-Step Solution:List required items: project identity, problem statements, options, cost-benefit estimates, schedule, and risks.Determine which item is a detailed design artifact: DFDs.Select “data-flow diagrams” as the exception.
Verification / Alternative check:Stage-gate methodologies separate feasibility/business case (Gate 1) from detailed analysis/design (later gates) where DFDs and models are elaborated.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- Project name and problem descriptions: Fundamental context.
- Feasible alternatives: Central to the decision.
- None of the above: Incorrect because DFDs are the exception at this stage.
Common Pitfalls:Over-investing in design before approval; presenting low-fidelity cost/benefit without clear assumptions; excluding risk and constraints.
Final Answer:data-flow diagrams (detailed DFDs)