<P> The goal of system analysis is to determine where the problem is, in an attempt to fix the system . This step involves breaking down the system in different pieces to analyze the situation, analyzing project goals, breaking down what needs to be created and attempting to engage users so that definite requirements can be defined . </P> <P> In systems design, the design functions and operations are described in detail, including screen layouts, business rules, process diagrams and other documentation . The output of this stage will describe the new system as a collection of modules or subsystems . </P> <P> The design stage takes as its initial input the requirements identified in the approved requirements document . For each requirement, a set of one or more design elements will be produced as a result of interviews, workshops, and / or prototype efforts . </P> <P> Design elements describe the desired system features in detail, and generally include functional hierarchy diagrams, screen layout diagrams, tables of business rules, business process diagrams, pseudo-code, and a complete entity - relationship diagram with a full data dictionary . These design elements are intended to describe the system in sufficient detail, such that skilled developers and engineers may develop and deliver the system with minimal additional input design . </P>

The four phases of the systems development life cycle end with this phase