The implementation approach where old and new systems run concurrently and users switch over gradually is known as:

The implementation approach where old and new systems run concurrently and users switch over gradually is known as:

• A. Old and new systems run simultaneously
• B. Old system is retired first
• C. New system is installed first and old continues
• D. Only hardware changes

Answer: (A)

Parallel deployment is the approach where the old and new systems run concurrently and users switch over gradually. This method lets you validate the new system against the trusted old one, reconcile data, and train staff in a live environment without forcing immediate downtime. It provides a safety net: if issues arise, you can revert to the old system while fixes are made. The trade-off is higher cost and complexity due to maintaining two systems and keeping data in sync, but the benefit is a smoother, lower-risk transition. The other options describe a direct cutover, an unusual sequence, or changes that don’t address the software transition at all, which is not consistent with a gradual, parallel switch.

Parallel deployment is the approach where the old and new systems run concurrently and users switch over gradually. This method lets you validate the new system against the trusted old one, reconcile data, and train staff in a live environment without forcing immediate downtime. It provides a safety net: if issues arise, you can revert to the old system while fixes are made. The trade-off is higher cost and complexity due to maintaining two systems and keeping data in sync, but the benefit is a smoother, lower-risk transition. The other options describe a direct cutover, an unusual sequence, or changes that don’t address the software transition at all, which is not consistent with a gradual, parallel switch.