The documentation of data processing applications is an important step in the design and implementation of any computer-based system. Documentation provides a complete record of data processing applications. However, documentation is a phase of systems development that often is neglected. Although documentation can be tedious and time-consuming, the lack of proper documentation can be very costly for an organization.

Required

(a) Identify and explain briefly the purposes proper documentation can serve.

(b) Discuss briefly the basic types of information that should be included in the documentation of a data processing application.

(c) What policies should be established to regulate access to documentation data for purposes of information or modification for the following four groups of company employees?

(1) computer operators

(2) internal auditors

(3) production planning analysts

(4) systems analysts