Arrange to visit a local organization that is expanding or otherwise enhancing its information systems.

To allow your group to practice the various observation methods described in this chapter, assign either of these two methods to each team member: developing the analyst’s (1) playscript or (2) using STROBE. Many of these strategies can be employed during one-on-one interviews, whereas some require formal organizational meetings. To accomplish several objectives during your visit to the organization, schedule your visit at a time that allows all team members to try their assigned method of observation. Using multiple methods such as interviewing and observation (often simultaneously) is the only cost-effective way to get a true, timely picture of the organization’s information requirements. Alternatively, if you are working on this problem as a face-to face group in a school or university setting, arrange to visit one of your school or university’s departments during working hours and follow the instructions given above.