Question

Why is the building of a house an appropriate analogy for the building of an information system?

Answer 1

Using the building of a house as an analogy for the building of information systems is appropriate due to similar requirements of planning, expertise, and purpose-driven design in both processes.

Step-by-step explanation:

The building of a house is an appropriate analogy for the building of information systems because both processes involve planning, specialized skills, and steps that must be completed in a particular order to achieve the desired outcome. Just as a computer systems engineer might hire a painter to paint their house due to the painter's specialized skills and efficiency, in the realm of information systems, specialized tasks are often best completed by individuals with the relevant expertise.

Additionally, similar to how a home is designed with specific functions in mind such as cooking and resting, information systems are designed to fulfill certain functions and operational requirements. The architect of a house must consider different human needs and design spaces accordingly. Similarly, architects of information systems must understand the business needs and design systems that effectively address those requirements in the most efficient and secure manner.

Answer 2

The analogy between building a house and an information system is appropriate because both tasks require specialization, planning, and stages of development. Hiring experts for each task ensures quality and efficiency, similar to how an engineer hires a painter.

Step-by-step explanation:

The building of a house is an apt analogy for the building of an information system because both processes require specialized skills, planning, and a clear understanding of the end users needs.

Just as a computer systems engineer might lack the expertise and equipment to properly paint a house, so too might an organization lack the internal resources to build an information system. In both cases, hiring specialists ensures that the job is done efficiently and to a high standard.

In constructing a house, there are different stages such as planning, laying the foundation, constructing the frame, and finishing with painting and decoration. Similarly, developing an information system involves stages like requirements gathering, system design, implementation, testing, and maintenance.

Each stage requires different skills and knowledge.

In summary, the building of a house requires specialized areas for different functions, which is mirrored in the information systems development process where specialized tasks are carried out to meet the specific needs of the system's users.

Therefore, it makes sense for a computer systems engineer to hire a painter for their expertise in completing the project with quality, just as organizations often need to hire information technology specialists to build and maintain their systems.