The information center approach for developing computer-based information systems

✍ Scribed by Charles R. Necco; Carl L. Gordon; Nancy W. Tsai

• Publisher: Elsevier Science
• Year: 1987
• Tongue: English
• Weight: 616 KB
• Volume: 13
• Category: Article
• ISSN: 0378-7206
• DOI: 10.1016/0378-7206(87)90014-0

✦ Synopsis

Organizations which have used computers for a number of years are well acquainted with the software maintenance problem and the new-application development backlog. The first exists because computer programs require various types of changes throughout their life. The second has been created because so many systems development staff have to be assigned to software maintenance, and because many computer users have recognized the value of additional computer applications in their organization.

It is believed that the concept of end-user computing has been used to relieve the new application development backlog in many organizations. In some, information centers have been implemented partly to support the development of computer applications by end-users. A survey was conducted to determine to what extent the information center approach is being used. Over one-half of the responding organizations reported their use. The survey included an identification of the functions provided by information centers to end-users and the responsibilities of both information center consultants and end-users. Recommendations are presented.