Elements and Performance Criteria
- Identify record and system requirements
- Comprehensive specifications are prepared based on requirements of potential users
- Conflicting requirements are identified and solutions are negotiated prior to and during development process
- Objectives are defined and specifications documented to establish the expected inputs, outputs and means of delivery
- System and record requirements are prioritised according to importance and urgency of user needs
- Security requirements to maintain system integrity are identified and incorporated into the system design
- Features of existing system (if any) and records are reviewed to establish their suitability and usability
- Recording processes are established according to accepted practice and in accordance with legislation and codes of practice
- Evaluate alternative systems
- Acceptance test system
- System is tested in an operational environment to ensure compliance with user requirements, system specifications and with relevant legislation or industry codes of practice
- Formal confirmation from all users is obtained on acceptability of new system/system changes against all criteria and system specifications
- Prepare system documentation
- System documentation is prepared thoroughly and accurately using clear and simple language and in a clear format to enable system implementation and training
- Users are consulted to ensure clarity, accuracy, thoroughness and usability of system documentation
- System documentation is made easily accessible and is constantly reviewed and updated to ensure currency and accuracy
- Implement reporting systems and records
- Implementation is carried out in accordance with specified guidelines and timelines
- Contingency plans are established to deal with potential delays or problems
- Effective training schedules and programs are established to support implementation
- All data is transferred from existing to new/modified system and records without error or loss
- Systems and records are updated regularly to identify ongoing benefits and threats to the organisation
- Files are maintained within organisational and statutory requirements and discrepancies identified and remedied
- Integrity of systems and records complies with organisational and statutory requirements
- Transactions are monitored to identify taxation and other liabilities
- Monitor reporting systems
- Transactions are analysed and accounted for completely and are correctly related to accounting period
- Processes for recording and classifying transactions are communicated and promoted to support internal verification of records
- Sources of input data and documentation are standardised in structured formats to minimise errors
- Back-ups are maintained in accessible location to safeguard data in accordance with organisational and audit requirements
- Review reporting procedures
- Sources of input data and documentation records are systematically checked for accuracy and reliability
- Reporting requirements are established and analysed regularly to identify variations and compliance with established processes for recording and classifying transactions
- Written reports, explanatory notes and financial results are maintained to support source documentation