Unit of competency details

Release 

Comments 

Release 1

This Unit first released with ICA11 Information and Communications Technology Training Package version 1.0

Element 

Performance Criteria 

Elements describe the essential outcomes of a unit of competency.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised text is used, further information is detailed in the required skills and knowledge section and the range statement. Assessment of performance is to be consistent with the evidence guide.

1. Determine and select appropriate methodology for a given activity

1.1 Determine and define subject activity

1.2 Define criteria for selection of development methodology 

1.3 Review and evaluate a range of traditional and non-traditional system development methodologies 

1.4 Select appropriate system development methodology to suit the activity

2. Apply the selected development methodology

2.1 Create an initial project  plan to guide developmental processes

2.2 Identify appropriate task types  according to development methodology

2.3 Clearly describe and articulate task types

2.4 Define appropriate control structures  that need to be created during task type execution

2.5 Associate each task type with a set of input and output  parameters

3. Adjust project to suit appropriate methodology

3.1 Identify resources to support methodology selection

3.2 Apply appropriate methodology to solve tasks

3.3 Monitor project flow and record effectiveness against project plan

3.4 Review and document opportunities for improvement, lessons learned and recommendations for future projects

3.5 Submit results to appropriate person  for approval

Overview of assessment 

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit 

Evidence of the ability to:

• develop a project plan
• apply a methodology to a project
• produce documentation as required by the chosen methodology.

Context of and specific resources for assessment 

Assessment must ensure access to:

• design specifications and current methodologies
• organisational standards for documentation and version control
• detailed user requirements document, including model and scope
• appropriate learning and assessment support when required.

Where applicable, physical resources should include equipment modified for people with special needs.

Method of assessment 

A range of assessment methods should be used to assess practical skills and knowledge. The following examples are appropriate for this unit:

• direct observation of candidate conducting the stages of a development methodology within the scope of a project
• verbal or written questioning to assess candidate’s knowledge of a variety of system development methodologies and their application to a systems project
• review of supporting documentation produced by candidate.

Guidance information for assessment 

Holistic assessment with other units relevant to the industry sector, workplace and job role is recommended, where appropriate.

Assessment processes and techniques must be culturally appropriate, and suitable to the communication skill level, language, literacy and numeracy capacity of the candidate and the work being performed.

Indigenous people and other people from a non-English speaking background may need additional support.

In cases where practical assessment is used it should be combined with targeted questioning to assess required knowledge.

Methodology  may include:

• traditional methodology
• non-traditional methodology.

Traditional system development methodologies  may include:

• design methodology
• structured systems analysis
• system development life cycle.

Non-traditional system development methodologies  may include:

• multi-view
• object-oriented analysis and design
• prototyping
• soft system methodology.

Project  may include:

• business improvement process
• ebusiness solution involving the total organisation or part of the organisation
• systems-only change
• total organisational change.

Task types  may include:

• development process activities
• cultural
• organisational
• procedural.

Control structures  may include:

• acceptance criteria
• inspection
• review process
• test plans.

Input and output  may include:

• pre-conditional options, such as a check to confirm that inputs fulfil specific requirements
• post-conditional options, such as a check that outputs have met quality requirements.

Appropriate person  may include:

• authorised business representative
• client
• supervisor.