Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Business IT · Regulation, see ) in England and Northern Ireland. 1.1 Why choose this qualification? NCC Education’s Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Business

Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Business IT (QCF) (L7DSBIT)Qualification Unit Specification 2016/17

Page 2 of 33 PD_QUS_11_L7DSBIT Qualification Unit Specification v1.4

Modification History

Version Revision Description

V1.0 For release

V1.1 Version for academic year 2014/15

V1.2 Version for academic year 2015/16

V1.3 Minor addition to wording for Section 3

V1.4 Addition of Total Qualification Time information

© NCC Education Limited, 2015

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Tel: +44 (0) 161 438 6200 Fax: +44 (0) 161 438 6240 Email: [email protected] http://www.nccedu.com

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CONTENTS

1. About NCC Education ............................................................................................................. 5

1.1 Why choose this qualification? ....................................................................................... 5

2. Structure of the L7DSBIT Qualification ................................................................................. 6

3. Assessment for the qualification ........................................................................................... 7

3.1 Assessment objectives .................................................................................................. 7 3.2 Overview of Qualification Unit Assessment .................................................................... 7 3.3 Accessibility of Assessment ........................................................................................... 7

3.3.1 Reasonable adjustments and special consideration ..................................................... 7 3.3.2 Supervision and Authentication of Assessment............................................................ 8

4 Administration ......................................................................................................................... 9

4.1 Assessment Cycles ....................................................................................................... 9 4.2 Language of Assessment .............................................................................................. 9 4.3 Candidates .................................................................................................................... 9 4.4 Qualification and Unit Entry Requirements .................................................................... 9 4.5 Candidate Entry ........................................................................................................... 10 4.6 Resits .......................................................................................................................... 10

5. Syllabus ................................................................................................................................. 11

5.1. Enterprise Software and Business Infrastructure ......................................................... 11 5.2. Project Management .................................................................................................... 14 5.3. Research in Information Technology ........................................................................... 18 5.4. Strategic Information Systems Analysis ....................................................................... 22

6. Results and Certificates........................................................................................................ 26

7. Further Information ............................................................................................................... 26

Appendix 1 Qualification Documentation ................................................................................... 27

Appendix 2 Grade Descriptors ..................................................................................................... 28


1. About NCC Education

NCC Education is a UK awarding body, active in the UK and internationally. Originally part of the UK National Computing Centre, NCC Education started offering IT qualifications in 1976 and from 1997 developed its Higher Education portfolio to include Business qualifications, IT qualifications for school children and a range of Foundation qualifications.

With Centres in over forty countries, four international offices and academic managers worldwide, NCC Education strives to employ the latest technologies for learning, assessment and support. NCC Education is regulated and quality assured by Ofqual (the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation, see www.ofqual.gov.uk) in England and Northern Ireland.

1.1 Why choose this qualification?

NCC Education’s Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Business Information Technology is:

Regulated by Ofqual and listed on the Qualifications and Credit Framework - Qualification Number 600/0016/8. The Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF) is a credit-based qualifications framework, allowing candidates to take a unit-based approach to building qualifications.

For more information see:

http://ofqual.gov.uk/qualifications-and-assessments/qualification-frameworks/

Quality assured and well established in the UK and worldwide

Recognised and valued by employers and universities worldwide

A pathway qualification for candidates who wish to access postgraduate study, including at one of NCC Education’s partner universities:

o A taught Master’s top-up degree with the University of Gloucestershire

o A taught Master’s top-up degree with the University of Greenwich

Candidates will explore an extensive range of contemporary issues and develop the critical, analytical and technical skills required by senior IT staff. Candidates will also develop and further demonstrate the academic skills required for further study at postgraduate level.

http://www.ofqual.gov.uk/

http://ofqual.gov.uk/qualifications-and-assessments/qualification-frameworks/


2. Structure of the L7DSBIT Qualification

Qualification Title, Credits, Units and Level

NCC Education Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Business Information Technology (QCF), 120 credits, all at QCF Level 7. Candidates must pass all 4 Units to be awarded the L7 Diploma in Strategic Business Information Technology certificate.

Enterprise Software and

Business Infrastructure

(30 credits)

Project Management

(30 credits)

Research in Information Technology

(30 credits)

Strategic Information

Systems Analysis

(30 credits)

Please see Section 5 below for Syllabuses, which include the Guided Learning Hours and Total Qualification Time for each Unit of the Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Business IT.

This qualification is regulated by Ofqual and listed on the Qualifications and Credit Framework – Qualification Number 600/0016/8. For further information see http://register.ofqual.gov.uk/Qualification/Details/600_0016_8

http://register.ofqual.gov.uk/Qualification/Details/600_0016_8


3. Assessment for the qualification

3.1 Assessment objectives

All assessment for the qualification is intended to allow candidates to demonstrate they have met the relevant Learning Outcomes. Moreover NCC Education’s assessment is appropriate to the assessment criteria as stated in this specification and is regularly reviewed to ensure it remains consistent with the specification.

3.2 Overview of Qualification Unit Assessment

Unit

Assessment Methods

Local Examination Global

Assignment

Enterprise Systems and Business Infrastructure 30% 70%

Project Management 30% 70%

Research in Information Technology - 100%

Strategic Information Systems Analysis 30% 70%

An examination is a time-constrained assessment that will take place on a specified date and usually in an NCC Centre. An assignment requires candidates to produce a written response to a set of one or more tasks, meeting a deadline imposed by the Centre. The overall Unit mark is computed from the weighted mean of its components. The pass mark for a Unit is 40%. Global Assignments and Local Examinations are marked by the centre. Global Examinations are marked by NCC Education.

NCC Education Centres can provide candidates with a specimen assessment paper as well as a limited number of past examination and assignment papers.

Past examination and assignment papers may be made available only following results release for the corresponding assessment cycle. Results release dates and past examination and assignment release dates can be found in the Activity Schedules area of Connect, NCC Education’s student registration system.

3.3 Accessibility of Assessment

We review our guidelines on assessment practices to ensure compliance with Equalities Law and to confirm assessment for our Units is fit for purpose.

3.3.1 Reasonable adjustments and special consideration

NCC Education is committed to providing reasonable adjustments and special consideration so as to ensure disabled candidates, or those facing exceptional circumstances, are not disadvantaged in demonstrating their knowledge, skills and understanding.

Further information on NCC Education’s arrangements for giving reasonable adjustments and special consideration can be found in the NCC Education Reasonable Adjustments and Special Considerations Policy.


3.3.2 Supervision and Authentication of Assessment

NCC Education Centres are required to organise all assessment activity for this specification according to NCC Education’s Policies and Advice.

Candidates’ identity and the authenticity of their work is verified and NCC Education moderates all assessment to ensure that the marking carried out is fair, and that the grading reflects the standard achieved by candidates as relevant to the specification Learning Outcomes and Assessment Criteria. Detailed guidance on this process and how candidate work must be submitted to NCC Education is given in NCC Education’s Examination Guidelines and Moderation Manual. The Moderation Manual also includes full reminder checklists for Centre administrators.


4 Administration

4.1 Assessment Cycles

Two assessment cycles are offered throughout the year, in June and December.

Examination dates and assignment submission deadlines are published in the NCC Education Activity Schedule, which is provided to Centres by Customer Services. It is also available on Connect, NCC Education’s student registration system.

The Activity Schedule also gives the key dates for registering candidates for assessment cycles, the dates when Centres can expect the assessment documentation and, ultimately, the assessment results from NCC Education.

4.2 Language of Assessment

All assessment is conducted in English.

4.3 Candidates

NCC Education’s qualifications are available to those Centre candidates who satisfy the entry requirements as stated in this specification.

4.4 Qualification and Unit Entry Requirements

Entry Requirements

An honours degree from a UK university (minimum 2:2) in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related subject.

IT graduates who hold a Bachelor’s ordinary - or pass - level degree (or equivalent) in Information Technology or related subject with high marks may be considered for admission, at the discretion of the Centre.

Holders of a UK Bachelor’s degree with honours in a non-IT-related subject (or equivalent) and 3+ years of work experience in an IT environment, with significant technical or managerial responsibility may also be considered.

Individuals with 5+ years of work experience in an IT environment, with significant technical or managerial responsibility

AND

An IELTS score of 6.5 or above for candidates who do not hold a degree-level qualification wholly taught and examined in English, will also be considered. In this instance, prospective candidates must be able to demonstrate that these work-related responsibilities were significant and that they had a high level of autonomy.

A decision on entry to the qualification via a work experience route will be made by NCC Education.


4.5 Candidate Entry

Candidates are registered for assessment via NCC Education’s Connect system and according to the deadlines for registration provided in the Activity Schedule.

Candidates are registered for the assessment of each Unit they wish to take in a particular assessment cycle. This includes candidates who need to resit a particular Unit.

Further details can be found in NCC Education’s Operations Manual.

4.6 Resits

If a candidate fails an assessment, they will be allowed two re-assessment attempts during the shelf life of this qualification specification.

Candidates may only seek reassessment in a previously failed Unit. Where a Unit is assessed by examination and coursework, the candidate is required to attain a mark of at least 30% in each component as well as an overall Unit mark of over 40% in order to pass.


5. Syllabus

5.1. Enterprise Software and Business Infrastructure

Title: Enterprise Software and Business Infrastructure

QCF code: D/502/5989 Credits 30 Level 7

Guided Learning Hours 96 Total Qualification Time 300

Learning Outcomes;

The Learner will:

Assessment Criteria;

The Learner can:

1. Understand the underlying principles, functions and applications of Enterprise Software Systems

1.1 Explain the concept of Enterprise Software Systems

1.2 Explain the function of various common types of enterprise software application (such as enterprise wide information systems, enterprise requirements planning (ERP) systems, data warehousing/business intelligence and enterprise application integration (EAI) systems)

1.3 Explain the application(s) of various enterprise software systems in a business environment

1.4 Critically evaluate the organisational and strategic relevance of various enterprise information systems architectures and how such systems fit into these architectures

1.5 Critically evaluate the possible applications of enterprise software systems in a business context.

2. Understand the integrative roles of enterprise software systems and the interrelation of their components.

2.1 Critically analyse the integrative roles of enterprise systems for information within an organisational context

2.2 Critically analyse the interrelation of the components of an enterprise system

3. Be able to critically appraise the role of enterprise software systems to support business strategy.

3.1 Explain the concepts and functions of enterprise software systems at the strategic level

3.2 Critically evaluate enterprise software systems against a strategic plan

3.3 Critically appraise business systems in the context of business strategy, in relation to real-world scenarios


4. Be able to critically evaluate enterprise system solution packages

4.1 Critically evaluate the scale and complexity of enterprise system packages

4.2 Critically evaluate main suppliers, products and application domains of enterprise wide packages

4.3 Select suppliers, products and application domains of enterprise wide packages based on evaluation

5. Be able to critically appraise the function of enterprise systems in different contexts

5.1 Critically evaluate the role, benefits and opportunities that enterprise systems provide to SME’s.

5.2 Critically appraise the role of enterprise systems as part of the larger IT infrastructure of large scale organisations

6. Be able to develop plans for infrastructure support of enterprise software and other requirements of a commercial organisation

6.1 Identify implementation variables, individual variables and contextual variables that interact to influence a specified system

6.2 Critically analyse the requirements of a commercial organisation in relation to the support of enterprise software systems

6.3 Critically appraise the significant components of an IT infrastructure plan

6.4 Create a plan for infrastructure support of enterprise software requirements

7. Be able to critically analyse data from a variety of sources to arrive at a conclusion

7.1 Select data sources appropriate to the analysis required

7.2 Organise data ready for analysis

7.3 Interpret data within an appropriate context

7.4 Critically analyse data, and communicate the results of this process clearly and professionally.

Syllabus Content

Topic Course coverage

Introduction to Enterprise Systems and Software

Overview of key concepts and preview of course components

Learning Outcome: 1, 2

Reference Models and Business Architectures I

The process view of the organisation and client server systems


Reference Models and Business Architectures II

Database systems and introducing enterprise system architecture

Learning Outcome: 2,4


IT Infrastructure and Administration of Enterprise Systems I

The initiation, planning and analysis and process design stages of the Enterprise System implementation

Learning Outcome: 4

IT Infrastructure and Administration of Enterprise Systems II

The realisation, transition and operations stages of the Enterprise System implementation

Learning Outcome: 4

Enterprise Software Systems I

Introducing Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems


Enterprise Software Systems II

Introducing Supply Chain Management (SCM)

Learning Outcome: 3, 4, 5

Enterprise Software Systems III

Business Intelligence and Data Warehousing

Systems

Learning Outcome: 3, 4, 6

Enterprise Integration I

The concept and tools of Business Process Management (BPM)


Enterprise Integration II

Strategic view of the effective use of integrating applications, messaging, passing and service orientation, covering Enterprise application integration (EAI), service orientated architectures (SOA) and web services


Content Management

Enterprise Content management systems and portal technology


Summary Review of key concepts from previous topics and assignment helpdesk

Learning Outcome: 1

Related National Occupational Standards (NOS)

Sector Subject Area: 6.1 ICT Practitioners

Related NOS: 6.1 ITS: B1 Select and use appropriate methods to minimise security risks to IT systems and data

6.1 IPU: B1 – Plan, select and use appropriate IT systems and software for different purposes

6.1 IPU:B2 - Review and adapt the ongoing use of IT tools and systems to make sure that activities are successful

6.1 DB: B1 – Create and modify non-relational database tables

6.1 DB: B2 – Enter, edit and organise structured information in a database

Assessments

Assignment (70%)

Examination (30%)

See also Section 3 above


5.2. Project Management

Title: Project Management

QCF code: H/502/5993 Credits 30 Level 7


Learning Outcomes;

The Learner will:


The Learner can:

1. Be able to critically appraise key project management principles and processes

1.1 Summarise project management principles

1.2 Explain the project management lifecycle

1.3 Identify the stakeholders of a given project

1.4 Critically analyse project management tools and techniques in relation to the development of an IT solution

1.5 Apply appropriate project management tools and techniques in relation to the development of an IT solution

1.6 Critically analyse project research strategies in a given context

1.7 Apply appropriate research strategies to the management of projects

1.8 Explain process for the control of project closure

1.9 Critically evaluate processes for the control of project closure

2. Be able to develop a business case for an IT project

2.1 Explain the process of building a business case for an IT project

2.2 Develop a business case for a given situation

3. Be able to evaluate a project proposal

3.1 Identify and evaluate appropriate selection criteria for a project proposal

3.2 Choose appropriate selection criteria for a project proposal based on an evaluation

4. Be able to develop a project proposal

4.1 Write a Project Initiation Document according to accepted industry standards

4.2 Critically appraise a project proposal against selection criteria and/or a business case

5. Be able to develop and evaluate risk plans

5.1 Develop a risk assessment for a software project

5.2 Develop a risk management plan for a given situation

5.3 Evaluate a risk management plan in a given context


6. Be able to develop and evaluate quality plans

6.1 Develop a quality plan for a given situation

6.2 Evaluate a quality plan in a given context

6.3 Incorporate quality assurance activities into a project plan

6.4 Incorporate quality conformance activities into a project plan

7. Understand the complexities of the project team-building process

7.1 Evaluate common theories relating to team working and team building, leadership and motivation

7.2 Evaluate common models relating to leadership and motivation

7.3 Critically analyse the complexities of a project team, either in real life or in a case study

8. Be able to critically evaluate elements of uncertainty within the project management function

8.1 Evaluate likely causes and results of uncertainty within the project management function

8.2 Discuss dynamic aspects and the ongoing nature of project planning

8.3 Critically evaluate strategies to respond to the dynamic and uncertain aspects of the project management function

8.4 Apply appropriate strategies in response to the dynamic and uncertain aspects of the project management function

9. Be able to critically evaluate the outcomes of a project

9.1 Develop an understanding and critical awareness of project process improvement and project/software process maturity models

9.2 Evaluate key influencing factors, incomplete data and creative solutions

9.3 Identify and evaluate assumptions

9.4 Detect false reasoning

Syllabus Content


An Introduction to Projects and Project Management

Project Management principles

Project Management lifecycle

Project Stakeholders


Project Research Strategies

How to build a business case for a given project

Building a business case for a given scenario

PID documentation



Building a Business Case for a project

Development for selection criteria for a project

The proposal evaluation process

Evaluation of proposals against selection criteria

Learning Outcome: 3

Evaluating a Project Proposal

How to design and develop a quality plan

Matching the quality plan with a given context

Quality Planning within the concept of the project lifecycle

Learning Outcome: 6

Develop and Evaluate Quality Plans

A selection of tools to be lightly covered including the development of a WBS, project planning, problem solving, controlling and monitoring techniques and decision making

Learning Outcome: 1

Uncertainty in Projects and Project Management

How to determine, evaluate and manage risk

Application of knowledge and decision making tools

Learning Outcome: 5

Develop and Evaluate Risk Plans

Determining the cause and effects of uncertainty in a project

Strategies for project managing uncertainty

The impact of uncertainty on the planning process

Learning Outcome: 8

Uncertainty in Projects and Project Management

Theories on team building and team roles

Managing for productivity and high motivation

Learning Outcome: 7

Managing and Building the Project Team

Theories of leadership roles and management approaches/cultures

Application of knowledge to scenario contexts including distributed and multi-cultural teams working in a creative environment

Learning Outcome: 7

Leadership, Responsibilities and Control in Projects

Consideration of research strategies throughout the project lifecycle

Evaluation research strategies and application of knowledge to a given context

Learning Outcome: 1

Understanding Project Closure

The factors involved and influencing the project closure process

Control within project closure

Evaluation of a closure process

Learning Outcome: 1

Evaluating the Project Process and Project Deliverables

Project process improvement

Influencing factors and interpretation of incomplete data

Identifying and evaluating project assumptions

Learning Outcome: 9




Related NOS: 6.1 PM: B1 – Create and define a project

6.1 PM: B2 – Enter and edit information about project tasks and resources

6.1 PM: B3 – Update information about project progress

6.1 PM: B4 – Select and use appropriate tools to display and report on project status

Assessments

Assignment (70%)

Examination (30%)



5.3. Research in Information Technology

Title: Research in Information Technology

QCF code: R/502/5987 Credits 30 Level 7


Learning Outcomes;

The Learner will:


The Learner can:

1. Be able to identify, locate and critically evaluate the quality of data and information sources

1.1 Explain different categories of sources of data and information

1.2 Critically evaluate sources of data and information in the context of different categories and applications

1.3 Develop criteria for source quality judgements specific to a given context

1.4 Critically evaluate a range of information sources against self-defined or pre-defined criteria

2. Be able to organise, interpret and critically evaluate data and literature relevant to a research project

2.1 Plan and execute a survey of relevant literature

2.2 Critically evaluate the results of a literature survey

2.3 Systematically organise data obtained during the course of a research project

2.4 Interpret and evaluate data in the context of project objectives

2.5 Communicate the results of a research project effectively and professionally through appropriate media

3. Be able to organise a research project, both independently and as part of a team

3.1 Select an appropriate subject for a research project of a given scope

3.2 Define clear objectives for a research project

3.3 Evaluate the progress of a research project against self or pre-defined objectives

3.4 Contribute to the work of a research project team

3.5 Undertake self-directed study and research

3.6 Manage own time effectively

4. Be able to critically evaluate approaches to the understanding of information systems and technologies which support organisations

4.1 Critically examine the different theoretical frameworks for understanding the systems approach to organisations

4.2 Employ one or more approach(es) to the analysis and evaluation of information systems in an organisational context

4.3 Evaluate the merits of a socio-technical approach in the study of information systems


4.4 Appraise the function of a given technology in the context of a business

4.5 Critically evaluate the role of IT and information systems in enhancing business performance

5. Be able to contribute to the writing of an academic paper

5.1 Communicate research findings according to the standards expected of an academic paper

5.2 Apply structure, style and format appropriate to an academic paper

5.3 Apply the citation, referencing and bibliographic standards expected in an academic paper

6. Be able to study effectively at postgraduate level

6.1 Organise studies effectively and efficiently

6.2 Critically reflect on the use of research methods in postgraduate study

Syllabus Content


Studying Effectively Sustained revision

Effective presentations

Listening skills

Developing an effective approach to note taking

Mutually profitable teamwork

Learning Outcome: 6

Academic Research Fundamentals of academic research

The HEFCE definition of research

The Purpose of Academic Research

Framework for classifying research design

The research process

Learning Outcome: 3

Writing and Structuring an Academic Paper

Coursework preparation and writing

Standard structures: Literature Review, Abstracts, Conclusions, Bibliography/Harvard Referencing

Learning Outcome: 5

Organising a Research Project

Time Management

How to plan a research project

Selecting your approach to the task

Organising, interpreting and evaluating data

Learning Outcome: 3

Literature Review (1) Literature source categories

Assessing source credibility

Critical evaluation of academic articles

Learning Outcome: 1


Literature Review (2) Managing the results of a literature survey

Writing the literature review

Referencing and producing a bibliography

Plagiarism, and how to avoid it

Learning Outcome: 2

Action Research Overview of major theories/developments in Action Research

Application-focused setoff seminars and tutorials

Learning Outcome: 4

Information Systems and Organisations

Defining Information Systems (IS)

Assessing technology usage in organisations; the socio-technical approach

Systems theory and systems thinking

Frameworks for understanding the organisation as a system

Learning Outcome: 4

Supporting Business Activities (1) – Information Systems

Historical overview: Data Processing to Decision Support

Organisational usage of IS

Recent developments in IS

Learning Outcomes: 1, 2, 4

Supporting Business Activities (2) – Information Technology

Recent trends/developments in:

Computing and Telecommunications

Network Technologies

Database Technologies and future developments in the above topics


Supporting Business Activities (3) – Internet Technologies

eBusiness and web technologies:

Information security and future developments in eBusiness and web technologies


Summary Review and recap session

Preparation for submission of assignment

Learning Outcomes: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6



Related NOS:6.1 IPU:B1 – Plan, select and use appropriate IT systems and software for different purposes

6.1 IPU: B2 – Review and adapt the on-going use of IT tools and systems to make sure that activities are successful

6.1 PS:B1 – Input and combine texts and other information with presentation slides

6.1 INT:C3 – Use browser tools to search effectively and efficiently for information from the Internet


Assessments

Assignment (100%)



5.4. Strategic Information Systems Analysis

Title: Strategic Information Systems Analysis

QCF code: R/502/5990 Credits 30 Level 7


Learning Outcomes;

The Learner will:


The Learner can:

1. Understand the role of management at a strategic level

1.1 Explain the concept of strategic management

1.2 Explain the difference between strategic management and other levels of management

2. Understand the need for an IS strategy

2.1 Explain the concept of IS strategy

2.2 Critically evaluate the relationship between an IS strategy and other aspects of corporate strategy

3. Be able to evaluate the information strategy of a commercial or public organisation

3.1 Explain why an IS strategy should be aligned to an organisation’s business strategy

3.2 Critically analyse strategic IS planning frameworks in terms of their business impact

3.3 Identify relevant IS performance measures in a specified organisational situation

3.4 Critically evaluate performance in a specified organisational situation against pre-or self-determined IS performance measures

3.5 Critically appraise the appropriateness of a specific information strategy for a given organisation

3.6 Critically appraise the contribution of new technologies to an organisation’s competitive advantage

4. Understand the complex relationship between corporate strategy, information systems and management roles

4.1 Critically appraise the role of management at the strategic level in relation to corporate strategy

4.2 Critically appraise the role of management at the strategic level in relation to IS strategy

4.3 Critically appraise the role of IS at the strategic level as an aspect of corporate strategy

4.4 Critically appraise the role of IS in supporting managerial decision making


5. Be able to develop an appropriate IS resource investment and management strategy for a given organisational situation

5.1 Identify and explain the key aspects of effective IS resource investment and management

5.2 Identify the IS resource and investment

requirements of a given organisational situation

5.3 Create an IS resource investment and

management strategy plan in response to a

given organisational situation

5.4 Justify the investment in an IS in relation to the

organisational benefits realised

5.5 Critically evaluate an IS resource investment

and management strategy against the

requirements of an organisational situation

6. Be able to formulate an IS strategy plan using appropriate frameworks for a given organisation

6.1 Classify frameworks and techniques which

support approaches to IS strategy planning

6.2 Critically evaluate the different alternatives for

IS acquisition

6.3 Critically evaluate an IS analysis report with a

view to contributing to a strategic plan

6.4 Create an IS strategy with logical and justified

relationships to an existing IS analysis

7. Be able to critically evaluate strategic IS planning frameworks in terms of their business impact

7.1 Analyse the essential aspects and features of a strategic IS planning framework

7.2 Evaluate and select techniques/methods for

measuring the business impact of implementing

an IS planning framework at the strategic level

7.3 Critically appraise a framework in relation to

demonstrable business impact

Syllabus Content


Introduction to Strategic Management

Strategy and strategic management

Strategic challenges: Industrial; Organisational; Current Circumstances; Environmental

Learning Outcome: 1

Introduction to Strategic Planning and Analysis

Strategic management in perspective

The planning process – ‘Mission’ to ‘Action’

Learning Outcome: 2


Introduction to Strategic Frameworks and Options

Strategy formulation frameworks

o Strategic Analysis

o Strategic Choice

o Strategy Implementation

Learning Outcome: 3

Management Information and Support Systems

Information and Decision Making

o Nature of information

o Information for decision making

Operational Systems

Management Information Systems

Decision Support Systems

Strategic Information Systems

Business Intelligence

Learning Outcome: 4

Strategic Information Systems Planning Approaches

SWOT analysis

Impact and opportunity

Competitive position

Learning Outcome: 3

Advanced Strategic Information Systems Planning Approaches

Internal position

Evolutionary

Strategic information requirements

Learning Outcome: 3

Business and IS Strategy Alignment

Planning objectives

Business alignment and impacting

Frameworks

Learning Outcome: 4

Advanced Business and IS Strategy Alignment

Critical Success Factors

Business Process Re-engineering

Balanced Scorecard

Learning Outcome: 4

eCommerce and eBusiness`

eCommerce overview

Types of eCommerce organisation:

o ‘Born on the net’

o ‘Moving to the net’

Success factors

Types of market

eCommerce strategy development

Learning Outcome: 7


Risk Assessment and Strategic Investment

IS costs and benefits

Investment decision techniques

Risk assessment

Evaluating and justifying the investment

Assessing intangible benefits Learning Outcome: 5, 6

Managing IT Resources and Change Management

System functionality

System location

Human Resource: roles and organisation

Change Management Process Learning Outcome: 5, 6

Supply Chain and Procurement

Procurement process

Software/Hardware acquisition

Outsourcing Learning Outcome: 7


6.1 DMS: B1 – Enter, edit and maintain data records in a data management system

6.1 IPU: B1 – Plan select and use appropriate IT systems and software for different purposes

6.1 IPU: B2 – Review and adapt the ongoing use of IT tools and systems to make sure that activities are successful

6.1 IUF: B2 – Manage information storage and retrieval appropriately

6.1 OSP: C2 – Manage files to maintain and improve performance

Assessments

Assignment (70%)

Examination (30%)



6. Results and Certificates

The grade descriptors Pass, Merit and Distinction are awarded by Unit to successful candidates. A Pass is awarded for an overall Unit mark of between 40 and 59. A Merit is awarded for an overall Unit mark of between 60 and 69 and a Distinction is awarded for an overall Unit mark of 70 and above. Candidates who obtain an overall Unit mark of below 40 are classed as failed in the Unit and may resit (see Section 5.6 above).

Grade Descriptors incorporate characteristics intended to provide a general indication of assessment performance in relation to each Unit’s Learning Outcomes in this specification. The final Unit grade awarded will depend on the extent to which a candidate has satisfied the Assessment Criteria. A qualification is awarded when the candidate has achieved at least a pass in all Units.

After each assessment cycle results slips are issued (in electronic format) which detail the grades achieved, i.e. Failed, Pass, Merit or Distinction (see Appendix 2). Certificates are then dispatched to Centres.

7. Further Information

For more information about any of NCC Education’s products please contact [email protected] or alternatively please visit www.nccedu.com to find out more about our suite of high quality British qualifications.

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.nccedu.com/


Appendix 1 Qualification Documentation

The following NCC Education documentation has been referred to in this specification:

Reasonable Adjustments and Special Considerations Policy

Examination Guidelines

Moderation Manual

Activity Schedule

Operations Manual

All documentation, together with access to NCC Education’s online resources, is available to Centres and (where applicable) candidates who have registered for assessment.


Appendix 2 Grade Descriptors

The grade descriptors Pass, Merit and Distinction are awarded to successful candidates. The following are characteristics intended to provide a general indication of assessment performance in relation to each Learning Outcome in this specification. The final grade awarded will depend on the extent to which a candidate has satisfied the Assessment Criteria overall.

Grade descriptors for Enterprise Software and Business Infrastructure

Learning Outcome

Pass Merit Distinction

Understand the underlying principles, functions and applications of Enterprise Software Systems

Demonstrate adequate understanding of principles, functions and applications

Demonstrate robust understanding of principles, functions and applications

Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of principles, functions and applications

Understand the integrative roles of enterprise software systems and the interrelation of their components

Demonstrate adequate level of understanding

Demonstrate robust level of understanding

Demonstrate highly comprehensive level of understanding

Be able to critically appraise the role of enterprise software systems to support business strategy

Demonstrate a reasonable understanding and assessment of the subject; Demonstrate some sound critical skills

Demonstrate a strong understanding and assessment of the subject; Demonstrate consistently sound critical skills

Demonstrate a consistently strong understanding and assessment of the subject; Demonstrate highly developed critical skills

Be able to critically evaluate enterprise system solution packages

Provide a reasonable assessment of the subject; Ideas are generally coherent and demonstrate some sound critical skills

Provide a generally strong assessment with some well-reasoned assumptions; Ideas are consistently coherent; Demonstrate consistently sound critical skills

Provide a consistently strong assessment with well-reasoned and original assumptions; All ideas are highly coherent; Demonstrate highly developed critical skills

Be able to critically appraise the function of enterprise systems in different contexts





Learning Outcome


Be able to develop plans for infrastructure support of enterprise software and other requirements of a commercial organisation

Show adequate development

Show sound and appropriate development

Show innovative and highly appropriate development

Be able to critically analyse data from a variety of sources to arrive at a conclusion

Demonstrate adequate ability to analyse and some sound critical skills demonstrated

Demonstrate ability to provide detailed and coherent analysis and demonstrate consistently sound critical skills

Demonstrate ability to provide comprehensive, lucid analysis; Demonstrate highly developed critical skills

Grade descriptors for Project Management

Learning Outcome


Be able to critically appraise key project management principles and processes




Be able to develop a business case for an IT project




Be able to evaluate a project proposal

Provide a reasonable assessment of the subject; Ideas are generally coherent

Provide a generally strong assessment with some well-reasoned assumptions; Ideas are consistently coherent

Provide a consistently strong assessment with well-reasoned and original assumptions; All ideas are highly coherent

Be able to develop a project proposal





Learning Outcome


Be able to develop and evaluate risk plans

Show adequate, appropriate development; Provide a reasonable assessment of the subject; Ideas are generally coherent

Show sound and appropriate development; Provide a generally strong assessment with some well-reasoned assumptions; Ideas are consistently coherent

Show innovative and highly appropriate development; Provide a consistently strong assessment with well-reasoned and original assumptions; All ideas are highly coherent

Be able to develop and evaluate quality plans

Show adequate, appropriate development; Provide a reasonable assessment of the subject; Ideas are generally coherent

Show sound and appropriate development; Provide a generally strong assessment with some well-reasoned assumptions; Ideas are consistently coherent

Show innovative and highly appropriate development; Provide a consistently strong assessment with well-reasoned and original assumptions; All ideas are highly coherent

Understand the complexities of the project team-building process




Be able to critically evaluate elements of uncertainty within the project management function




Be able to critically evaluate the outcomes of a project





Grade descriptors for Research in Information Technology

Learning Outcome Pass Merit Distinction

Be able to identify, locate and critically evaluate the quality of information sources




Be able to organise, interpret and critically evaluate data and literature relevant to a research project




Be able to organise a research project both independently and as part of a team

Demonstrate adequate organisational skills and ability

Demonstrate consistently sound organisational skills and ability

Demonstrate highly effective organisational skills and ability

Be able to critically evaluate approaches to the understanding of information systems and technologies which support organisations




Be able to critically evaluate learning outcomes at postgraduate level





Learning Outcome Pass Merit Distinction

Be able to contribute to the writing of an academic paper

Demonstrate adequate ability to work as part of a team and provide some appropriate input

Demonstrate strong ability to work as part of a team and provide consistently appropriate input

Demonstrate highly effective ability to work as part of a team and provide high quality input

Grade descriptors for Strategic Information Systems Analysis

Learning Outcome


Understand the role of management at a strategic level




Understand the need for an IS strategy




Be able to evaluate the information strategy of a commercial or public organisation.

Provide a reasonable assessment of the subject; Ideas are generally coherent

Provide a generally strong assessment with some well-reasoned assumptions; Ideas are consistently coherent

Provide a consistently strong assessment with well-reasoned and original assumptions; All ideas are highly coherent

Be able to critically evaluate strategic IS planning frameworks in terms of their business impact




Understand the complex relationship between corporate strategy, information systems and management roles





Learning Outcome


Be able to develop an appropriate IS resource investment and management strategy for a given organisational situation




Be able to formulate an IS strategy plan using appropriate frameworks for a given organisation

Provide adequate formulation

Provide sound and appropriate formulation

Provide highly appropriate and innovative formulation

Documents

Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Business IT · Regulation, see ) in England and Northern Ireland. 1.1 Why choose this qualification? NCC Education’s Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Business