The aim of the dissertation is to develop expertise in a chosen subject area directly related to the programme, through the application of knowledge and skills provided by other courses in the programme to a specific information systems problem. In undertaking the dissertation the student should demonstrate a clear grasp of the chosen subject matter, a full understanding of the principles being applied, and the ability to manage and present the dissertation in a coherent and precise manner.

# The dissertation will have a maximum of 20,000 words of main text. In keeping with the aim of coherent, concise and precise reporting work in excess of 20,000 words will be discouraged and may be penalised. The main text may be supplemented by appendices, bibliography, etc.

The written dissertation will be marked independently by the supervisor and by a second assessor, who will also be a member of academic staff of the department. The two assessors will each mark to a maximum of 40%, giving a total maximum mark of 80% for the written dissertation. Of the remaining 20% mark for the dissertation course, the quality and timeliness of the interim report will account for 10% and continuous assessment by the supervisor will account for 10%.