System Integration

A Systems Integration is the process of developing a sophisticated information system, which may include the creation or modification of a unique architecture or application, integration with new or existing hardware, packaged and custom software, and communications. Most businesses rely on an external contractor for system management in most or all phases of system development. The responsibility for the project's risks is generally transferred to an outside firm. The system management process generally includes the following six phases:

Systems Investigation
Systems Analysis
Systems Design
Systems Implementation and Integration
Systems Operation and Maintenance
Systems Retirement or Replacement

The first three phases involve planning and designing the new system. The last three phases involve building, installing, and using the new system.