Systems Security Certified Practitioner – SSCP – Question0312

Which of the following BEST explains why computerized information systems frequently fail to meet the needs of users?

A.
Inadequate quality assurance (QA) tools.
B. Constantly changing user needs.
C. Inadequate user participation in defining the system's requirements.
D. Inadequate project management.

Correct Answer: C

Explanation:

Inadequate user participation in defining the system’s requirements. Most projects fail to meet the needs of the users because there was inadequate input in the initial steps of the project from the user community and what their needs really are.
The other answers, while potentially valid, are incorrect because they do not represent the most common problem assosciated with information systems failing to meet the needs of users.
References: All in One pg 834
Only users can define what their needs are and, therefore, what the system should accomplish. Lack of adequate user involvement, especially in the systems requirements phase, will usually result in a system that doesn’t fully or adequately address the needs of the user. Source: Information Systems Audit and Control Association, Certified Information Systems Auditor 2002 review manual, chapter 6: Business Application System Development, Acquisition, Implementation and Maintenance (page 296).