Introduction
One of the most overlooked but crucial parts of the IB Computer Science IA is selecting a good client. The IB explicitly requires that your IA solution addresses the needs of a real client, and your grade depends heavily on how well you document and meet those needs. Many students choose a client carelessly and later struggle with evidence, feedback, or testing.
In this guide, we’ll break down how to choose a strong IA client, mistakes to avoid, and how RevisionDojo can support you in aligning your project with the IB rubric.
Quick Start Checklist
When selecting your IA client, make sure they are:
- Real and accessible — not a fictional persona.
- Willing to provide clear requirements.
- Available for feedback and testing at multiple stages.
- Someone with a genuine problem that you can solve.
- Comfortable with you documenting your interactions.
Why the Client Matters
The IA rubric emphasizes:
- Initial consultation — Gathering requirements directly from the client.
- Solution design — Tailoring features to meet client needs.
- Testing and evaluation — Demonstrating how the client interacts with your system.
A poor client choice (e.g., a friend who just agrees to anything) makes it hard to show evidence of consultation, testing, and evaluation. A strong client strengthens your IA because they provide real feedback that you can document.
Best Types of Clients
Here are some examples of good clients for an IA project:
- Teachers – They often need classroom management tools, grading trackers, or resource schedulers.
- School staff – Librarians, sports coaches, or lab supervisors who need management systems.
- Students with leadership roles – Heads of clubs or societies who need scheduling, attendance, or resource apps.
- Small business owners – Family or community businesses needing inventory or booking systems.
- Community organizations – Charities or clubs that could benefit from automation or scheduling tools.
Each of these provides clear needs, realistic scope, and availability for feedback.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Choosing a “fake” client — IB examiners can tell if your client is invented.
- Picking someone unavailable — If your client is too busy, you won’t have enough interaction for documentation.
- Overly ambitious clients — If a business asks for a large-scale solution (like a full e-commerce system), it may exceed IB’s timeframe.
- Passive clients — If your client doesn’t give feedback, your evaluation will be weak.
How RevisionDojo Helps
RevisionDojo provides IA client interview templates that guide you through asking the right questions to uncover project requirements. Our IA guides also include examples of strong and weak client documentation so you know what examiners expect. With our step-by-step support, you’ll avoid common mistakes and secure a project that ticks every rubric box.
FAQs
Q: Can my client be a parent or sibling?
Yes, as long as they have a real problem that requires a computing solution. However, avoid making it seem like you invented the problem just for the IA. Document their needs carefully.
Q: What if my client loses interest halfway?
This is why choosing a reliable client is critical. If possible, have a backup plan (e.g., another teacher or peer). RevisionDojo guides explain how to keep documentation strong even if issues arise.
Q: Do I need to record client meetings?
You don’t have to, but you should keep clear written evidence of interviews and feedback. Screenshots, meeting notes, and email records are highly recommended.
Conclusion
Your client choice can make or break your IB Computer Science IA. A good client provides real needs, meaningful feedback, and opportunities for testing and evaluation. Avoid choosing someone who isn’t available or who doesn’t give genuine input. Instead, look for clients like teachers, school staff, or community members with practical needs.
With RevisionDojo’s client interview templates and IA checklists, you can confidently select a strong client and ensure your project is set up for a 7.
