Systems analysis and design (SAD) is one of the core courses offered in most IS programs, yet this class can be challenging for students and instructors alike. The concepts can be abstract, and getting students to appreciate their importance can be difficult. This paper discusses the implementation of a two semester sequence in which the students are placed in teams to complete an analysis, design and implementation of a real world project for an end client. The result is the theories of the systems analysis and design course are placed into practice immediately through active learning and also the capstone projects have a higher level of success.