The first step to the SDLC is the system strategy, which sounds like what it is, to develop a system strategy. In this phase, the information necessary to purchase, develop or modify a system is collected. In the systems strategy phase the company “reflects the organization's current position relative to where it needs to be in the long term to maintain strategic advantage” (Hall 550). There are three tasks at hand in this phase: assess the organization's strategic information needs, develop a strategic systems plan, and create action plans. The development of a system that follows the strategic information needs of the organization is the basis for the next steps. Top management's vision and company mission are evaluated and entered into the system. In addition to this, it is necessary to analyze the industry in which the company operates to evaluate strategic business needs and competency analysis to measure the effectiveness of the company in order to determine strengths and weaknesses. To evaluate strategic information needs, the organization must also develop an architecture description in order to identify the structural properties that will define the components and building blocks of the system. Next, a formal project proposal is created so that management can decide whether to proceed with the new system project and whether it is worth it