Discuss the role and influence the user plays in software development

What will be an ideal response?

The user is the primary focus of software development. Whether a new information system succeeds or fails largely depends on the roles of users. Building successful information systems requires close cooperation among end users and information systems specialists throughout the systems development process. If users are heavily involved in the development of a system, they have more opportunities to mold the system according to their priorities and business requirements, and more opportunities to control the outcome. They also are more likely to react positively to the completed system because they have been active participants in the change process. Incorporating user knowledge and expertise leads to better solutions.
The role of the user in the development of software depends on the method of development used. In SLDC work, end users are limited to providing information requirements and reviewing the technical staff's work. In prototyping, users are involved throughout development, through the use and review of iterative steps of the prototype. In end-user development, the users themselves create the system. Users are typically more involved also in RAD, through the use of prototyping and JAD. In joint application design, end users and information systems specialists work together in an interactive session to discuss design.