“User-friendly” computers and modern interfaces: Have they eliminated the need for systems analysis, programmers, or structured programming practices?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: None of the above

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
User-friendly computing—graphical interfaces, low-code tools, and wizards—has dramatically lowered barriers to basic tasks. However, ease of use does not nullify core disciplines of systems analysis, software engineering, or programming. This question tests the misconception that friendliness equals no need for rigor, design, or technical roles.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • “User-friendly” refers to modern interfaces, guided setups, and low-code/no-code platforms.
  • Organizations still build integrated, secure, scalable information systems.
  • We are judging whether analysis, programming, and structured methods are now unnecessary.


Concept / Approach:
Effective systems serve complex requirements: integration across services, privacy/security compliance, data quality, reliability, and performance. These require explicit requirements engineering, architecture, and test plans. Programmers remain essential for custom logic, integrations, performance tuning, and governance of low-code extensions. Structured programming (and its successors like modular, object-oriented, and functional design) provides readability, maintainability, and testability—regardless of language or platform.



Step-by-Step Solution:

Clarify the scope: enterprise systems vs. simple end-user tasks.Map needs: requirements, data models, integration, security → demand formal analysis/design.Map implementation: custom logic, APIs, automation → programmers remain necessary.Map quality: maintainable code and predictable behavior → structured practices still apply.Conclude that none of the statements claiming elimination are correct.


Verification / Alternative check:
Large-scale systems (ERP, CRM, core banking, healthcare EMR) still rely on formal lifecycles, architectural governance, and professional development teams. Even low-code platforms publish SDLC and DevOps guides that assume analysis, testing, and structured design.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • Management requires no system analysis and design: False; analysis aligns systems with strategy and controls risk.
  • Programmers are no longer needed: False; customization, integration, and quality engineering persist.
  • Structured programming is not needed: False; structure underpins maintainability and reliability.
  • All of the above: Aggregates false statements.


Common Pitfalls:
Confusing convenience features with engineering rigor; assuming prototypes can replace analyzed, secure production systems; underestimating integration and governance.



Final Answer:
None of the above

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