Final answer:
a. true. The statement is true; requirements collection involves the important steps of defining the problem, identifying criteria and constraints, and guiding the evaluation and selection of suitable solutions for the design of an information system.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement 'requirements collection is the process of gathering and organizing information to understand how a proposed information system should function' is true. Requirements collection is a critical step in the systems design process.
This process begins with defining the problem, which entails investigating customer needs, identifying potential competitors and regulatory constraints, and outlining the available resources like time, money, and personnel. A clear problem statement is then generated from this understanding.
Following the problem definition, the step of identifying criteria and constraints comes into play. Criteria refer to measurable standards or attributes of a design, while constraints are limitations or conditions that need to be met.
The developed criteria and constraints guide the evaluation of potential solutions, paving the way for selecting the most appropriate design that aligns with the stated requirements and fits within the identified constraints.
For instance, in the context of designing a system for producing drinkable water, requirements might include factors like the water’s purity, production rate, and system longevity.
Constraints may involve cost considerations for the design, fabrication, operation, and ongoing maintenance. Ultimately, a succinct problem statement would be created to guide the design process effectively.