Provide a brief explanation of the various alternatives that should be investigated if development continues, including in-house development and any other possible strategies.

What will be an ideal response?

Chapter 7 presents an extensive discussion of development strategies. These include Web-based software trends, outsourcing options (such as application service providers and Internet business service providers), and in-house development (including building, purchasing, or customizing a software package, and user applications).
Students should mention each alternative and cite the main advantages and disadvantages of each. The New Century case study does not provide factual details about outsourcing or user applications, but students can use their imagination or the instructor can supply an additional fact statement for these areas. The main objective is to practice analytical skills in evaluating several different alternatives.