Managing Computers in Large Organizations

Managing Microcomputers in Large Organizations
http://www.nap.edu/catalog/167.html
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A PERSPECTIVE FOR THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER 75
The MIS activities of most companies today are in the third stage, marked
by central controls. However, the growth of personal computing and end-user
experience is generally back in stage one, initiation, or entering stage two,
contagion. We are still in the process of learning what personal computing is all
about, where the benefits are, and how it is going to work. At the same time
developments are spurring rapid increases in use.
This disparity of stages is a source of concern about the growth of personal
computing. A major concern in stages one and two, initiation and contagion,
lies in the unpredictability of end-user development projects. Without adequate
controls in place there are risks that systems will not achieve expected benefits
and will not be developed on time and within budget. There are risks that
inflexible systems may result. Without proper development techniques for
personal computers the systems developed by end users will be difficult to
understand, difficult for others to modify, and unresponsive to changing
business needs.
In the traditional MIS environment these risks were addressed in the
control stage by a variety of systems-development disciplines and review
procedures. Well-defined programming guidelines were developed. But no such
roadmaps exist to guide users today in developing applications for personal
computers.
The last set of issues relates to the shift in skills required by widespread
use of personal computers. First, users will become developers, a function
formerly in the domain of the MIS community. Yet many users today do not
have the skills to manage the development process properly.
Second, end users must learn to manage computers and deal with the risks
involved in their use. They will be responsible for backup, data integrity,
security, and error detection. In the past the MIS organization has taken care of
most of these tasks.
Third, end users must learn to deal with shifting technical trends. You can't
install new systems every time a new gimmick hits the market, but you don't
want to miss major opportunities because you are locked into obsolete
equipment.
The growth in personal computers means a change in the roles of MIS
personnel as well. This began with the development of user-friendly languages,
information centers, and timesharing and has accelerated with the use of
personal computers. Many MIS professionals who have spent their careers as
developers will move to user departments; others will become consultants or
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