Managing Computers in Large Organizations

Managing Microcomputers in Large Organizations
http://www.nap.edu/catalog/167.html
About this PDF file: This new digital representation of the original work has been recomposed from XML files created from the original paper book, not from the
original typesetting files. Page breaks are true to the original; line lengths, word breaks, heading styles, and other typesetting-specific formatting, however, cannot be
retained, and some typographic errors may have been accidentally inserted. Please use the print version of this publication as the authoritative version for attribution.
MANAGING MICROCOMPUTERS AND END-USER COMPUTING SOME CRITICAL
ISSUES
If my thesis about distributed creativity is correct, end-user computing,
with micros where justified, is appropriate. Through a good end-user support
group, sometimes called an information center, local managers can receive
information support of all types, not only with hardware but with software and
training. However, some controls should be attached to these support efforts:
• Use passwords properly. Change them frequently. Tie them to people and
terminals, not groups.
• Control the use of floppy disks and prevent unauthorized removal of data.
• Isolate the user from the operating system with a friendly menu and
command-driven front end.
• Don't let end users update main files except through batch processes with
good edits and controls or through on-line systems with formal edit, audit,
and recovery procedures.
• Decide between a throw-away or a share policy for user-developed,
decision-aiding programs. If sharing is chosen, build the infrastructure to
support it.
• Provide good user training. Users tend to follow the instructions given, and
good training can help reduce waste, correct inefficient routines, and
promote data security and integrity.
• Use a real money charge-back system and let the end users' manager worry
about waste. Allocate disk space carefully—it is relatively expensive.
Limiting disk space constrains the extent of data and thus indirectly
controls how large and complex the user's systems can be.
Distributed creativity is an important national asset. It can help the
revitalization of industry and the recovery of the U.S. position in international
competition. End-user computing, supported by micros or terminals and by a
good support staff, promotes distributed creativity. Microcomputers in
particular can encourage innovation and good decision making at all levels of
the organization. No longer just an executive gadget or a local data processor,
micros have become, I believe, an important link in rebuilding our national
strength.
92
Copyright © National Academy of Sciences. All rights reserved.