One must gather info about what is needed to create a complete system, in order to do that you must collect data from people to find out what they want. Appropriate methods of doing so are by:
  • giving out surveys/questionnaires to people
  • getting feedback/comments
  • reports from users of the system
  • forms and documents used in the organization
  • procedure manuals
  • rule books etc.
You could also gather information by interviewing top level management, middle level management and operational staff.

Above is a powerpoint with more detail of ways to gather information to arrive at a workable solution.