Real-Life Business Subsystems

SAD is a process for analyzing an organization's needs and designing new information systems to meet them.

System Analysis and design Aug 3, 2025 0 23 Add to Reading List

Introduction

In System Analysis and Design, a subsystem is a smaller part of a larger system that performs specific tasks and contributes to the overall system functionality.

A business system (like an organization) is composed of multiple subsystems, each handling specific functions such as finance, marketing, HR, etc.

Definition of Subsystem:

A subsystem is a component of a larger system that has its own function but works together with other subsystems to achieve the overall goal.

Example: Real-Life Business – University as a System

Subsystem	Description	Function
Admission Subsystem	Handles student applications and enrollment	Accepts forms, verifies documents
Academic Subsystem	Manages classes, syllabus, timetable	Schedules lectures, assigns faculty
Examination Subsystem	Conducts exams and publishes results	Sets papers, evaluates, declares results
Library Subsystem	Manages books and lending services	Issues/returns books, maintains inventory
Finance Subsystem	Manages fees, salaries, budgets	Processes payments, maintains records
Hostel Subsystem	Manages accommodation for students	Allots rooms, handles complaints
HR Subsystem	Manages employee details and payroll	Hiring, salary management, records

All these subsystems interact with each other. For example, the finance subsystem collects fees and passes student status to the academic subsystem.

Example: Real-Life Business – E-commerce Company

Subsystem	Function
Order Management	Processes customer orders
Inventory System	Tracks stock levels
Customer Support	Handles customer queries and complaints
Logistics System	Manages shipping and delivery
Payment Gateway	Handles payments and refunds
Marketing System	Manages promotions, campaigns

Diagram: Real-Life Business System with Subsystems

Each block here is a subsystem that performs a specific role, but collectively they help the main system (e.g., university) function effectively.

Why Subsystems are Important:

Divide and conquer: Breaks down complex systems into manageable units
Improves efficiency: Each subsystem specializes in its task
Easier maintenance: Changes can be made in one subsystem without affecting others
Supports modular design: Encourages reuse and scalability

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