Purpose
- Gain a clear understanding of the current state of the IT solutions (i.e. systems, processes, people).
- Document existing applications, performance targets and existing issues.
Activities
Scope
S1. Identify all systems within scope. Prepare list of applications, number of users, reach and infrastructure platforms.
S2. Identify resources currently supporting systems. Record skill levels and hours allocated to systems support.
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Example of a Systems Status chart.
S3. Gather and chart operating costs, importance of systems and perceived effectiveness of systems to identify under-performing systems and over-capitalised systems.
S4. Determine maturity level of systems and strategic direction.
S5. Document findings in a Software Audit Report.
Performance
P1. Assess reliability and stability of systems by reviewing logs of incidents and problems
P2. Benchmark existing level of performance of the systems (e.g. response times) to form a baseline for future improvements. Where possible use a Standard Benchmark Test.
Operations & Support
O1. Review quality and currency of existing system documentation, user documentation and systems architecture documents.
O2. Peruse development standards to understand level of software development maturity.
O3. Review existing Service Level Agreements. At a high-level, ascertain whether service levels are being met.
O4. Review the backlog of maintenance jobs and enhancements (including the associated priorities).
O5. Review suitability of existing Business Continuity Plans.
User view
U1. Gauge users’ satisfaction and expectations with systems. This can be done using survey instruments and direct interviews.



