Feasibility study contents: A feasibility document for an information-system project should include all of the following <em>except</em> which item?

Difficulty: Easy

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)

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