Explain how a business should assess the viability of introducing a new ICT solution.

1. 1 · Open in two lines. Replacing a manual process with an automated one can save time and errors, but it costs money and changes how people work, so viability must be tested first.
2. 2 · Manual vs automated. Automated processes are faster, more accurate and easier to search, but cost more to set up and depend on correct input and backups.
3. 3 · Feasibility tests (TELOS).
   • Technical: hardware, software and skills.
   • Economic: benefits greater than costs.
   • Legal: meets laws such as data protection.
   • Operational: users will accept it.
   • Schedule: ready in time.
4. 4 · Show economic viability. Payback = cost ÷ net yearly saving, e.g. Rs. 600,000 ÷ Rs. 120,000 = 5 years.
5. 5 · Draw the SDLC. [Diagram: cycle of planning → analysis → design → development → testing → implementation → maintenance]
6. 6 · Implementation and training. Choose a changeover method (direct, parallel, pilot, phased) and train users so the system is actually used.
7. 7 · Sri Lankan business example. Banks moving from handwritten ledgers to core banking and ATMs had to be sure the change was technically possible, worth the cost and accepted by customers.
8. 8 · Close in one line. Introduce an ICT solution only when it is feasible on every test, and manage it through the full life cycle.

Scoring tip: Name all five TELOS tests and show one simple payback calculation.