glossary mis 322.txt

A class that has no direct instances but whose descendants may have direct instances.

The process whereby actual users test a completed information system, the end result of which is the users� acceptance of it.

That part of a decision table that lists the actions that result for a given set of conditions.

The time period during which an object performs an operation.

An external entity that interacts with the system (similar to an external entity in data-flow diagramming).

Changes made to a system to evolve its functionality to changing business needs or technologies.

A part-of relationship between a component object and an aggregate object.

A family of development methodologies characterized by short iterative cycles and extensive testing; active involvement of users for establishing, prioritizing, and verifying requirements; and a focus on small teams of talented, experienced programmers.

User testing of a completed information system using simulated data.

The separation of data and the definition of data from the applications that use these data.

A �middle-tier� software and hardware combination that lies between the Web server and the corporate network and systems.

Organizations that host and run computer applications for other companies, typically on a per-use or license basis.

Software designed to process data and support users in an organization. Examples of application software include spreadsheets, word processors, and database management systems.

A relationship between object classes.

The end of an association where it connects to a class.

An entity type that associates the instances of one or more entity types and contains attributes that are peculiar to the relationship between those entity instances.

A named property or characteristic of an entity that is of interest to the organization.

A record of the sequence of data entries and the date of those entries.