Overview
The BCS Practitioner Certificate in Systems Modelling and Development provides professionals with a comprehensive understanding of how modelling facilitates the comprehension of complex systems and how development applies industry-standard models and processes to transform abstract concepts into operational solutions.
Prerequisites
There are no formal prerequisites for this certification. However, a foundational understanding of information systems and development processes is beneficial for participants.
Target Audience
This course is designed for:
- Business analysts seeking to enhance their modelling and development skills.
- Designers involved in creating system architectures.
- Developers aiming to understand the broader context of system development.
- Testers focusing on validating system models and developments.
- Technical architects responsible for overseeing system integration and performance.
Learning objectives
By the end of this course, learners will be able to:
- Understand the role of modelling in analysing and designing complex systems.
- Apply industry-standard development methods and approaches to system development.
- Identify and define team structures, roles, and responsibilities in system development projects.
- Utilise process modelling techniques to represent system functionalities.
- Evaluate the suitability of bespoke versus off-the-shelf solutions in system development
Course Outline
Introduction to Systems Modelling
- The importance of modelling in understanding complex systems.
- Overview of different modelling techniques and their applications.
Development Methods and Approaches
- Exploration of industry-standard methods for system development.
- Comparison of various development approaches, including agile and waterfall methodologies.
Team Structures and Roles
- Defining roles and responsibilities within system development teams.
- Understanding the impact of team dynamics on project success.
Process Modelling Techniques
- Utilising process modelling to represent system operations.
- Analysing process models to identify areas for improvement.
Bespoke vs. Off-the-Shelf Solutions
- Evaluating the advantages and disadvantages of custom-developed systems versus pre-built solutions.
- Decision-making criteria for selecting the appropriate solution type.
Exams and Assessments
This award is assessed by completing an invigilated online exam that candidates will only be able to access at the date and time they are registered to attend.
- 40 multiple choice questions
- 60 minutes duration
- Not open book
- 65% pass mark
- Supervised
Hands-On Learning
The course incorporates practical exercises and case studies, allowing participants to:
- Develop and analyse system models using various techniques.
- Apply development methods to real-world scenarios.
- Design team structures and define roles for system development projects.
- Create process models to represent system functionalities.
- Assess the suitability of bespoke and off-the-shelf solutions for specific organisational needs.

Frequently asked questions
How can I create an account on myQA.com?
There are a number of ways to create an account. If you are a self-funder, simply select the "Create account" option on the login page.
If you have been booked onto a course by your company, you will receive a confirmation email. From this email, select "Sign into myQA" and you will be taken to the "Create account" page. Complete all of the details and select "Create account".
If you have the booking number you can also go here and select the "I have a booking number" option. Enter the booking reference and your surname. If the details match, you will be taken to the "Create account" page from where you can enter your details and confirm your account.
Find more answers to frequently asked questions in our FAQs: Bookings & Cancellations page.
How do QA’s virtual classroom courses work?
Our virtual classroom courses allow you to access award-winning classroom training, without leaving your home or office. Our learning professionals are specially trained on how to interact with remote attendees and our remote labs ensure all participants can take part in hands-on exercises wherever they are.
We use the WebEx video conferencing platform by Cisco. Before you book, check that you meet the WebEx system requirements and run a test meeting to ensure the software is compatible with your firewall settings. If it doesn’t work, try adjusting your settings or contact your IT department about permitting the website.
How do QA’s online courses work?
QA online courses, also commonly known as distance learning courses or elearning courses, take the form of interactive software designed for individual learning, but you will also have access to full support from our subject-matter experts for the duration of your course. When you book a QA online learning course you will receive immediate access to it through our e-learning platform and you can start to learn straight away, from any compatible device. Access to the online learning platform is valid for one year from the booking date.
All courses are built around case studies and presented in an engaging format, which includes storytelling elements, video, audio and humour. Every case study is supported by sample documents and a collection of Knowledge Nuggets that provide more in-depth detail on the wider processes.
When will I receive my joining instructions?
Joining instructions for QA courses are sent two weeks prior to the course start date, or immediately if the booking is confirmed within this timeframe. For course bookings made via QA but delivered by a third-party supplier, joining instructions are sent to attendees prior to the training course, but timescales vary depending on each supplier’s terms. Read more FAQs.
When will I receive my certificate?
Certificates of Achievement are issued at the end the course, either as a hard copy or via email. Read more here.