| This document is designed to assist any company manager or systems administrator charged with the task of downsizing computer information systems. It describes, through a five phase process called the downsizing development life cycle, based on the Systems Development Life Cycle, the purpose, activities and resultant output of each phase of the downsizing process. The phases cover problem definition, systems analysis, systems design of a new or replacement system, system development of the system and finally systems implementation and the beginning of the maintenance life cycle.;For non-technical readers, a chapter on the historical evolution of computer hardware and software operating systems is provided to inform readers of the features offered by various systems of hardware and software. Knowledge of these features can influence the choices made during the Downsizing Development Life Cycle and decision makers should have an understanding of their value.;A chapter reviewing information systems provides background for the reader to review the variety of information systems that exist, their purpose and intended management audience. The levels of management and their information needs are reviewed in this chapter also.;In any project involving change, the human resources element must be considered. A chapter is devoted to human resource considerations since it permeates the entire model and can empower or hinder the change process.;The text considers the influence of internal information system needs as well as external industry forces that bear on the organizations competitive advantage requirements for information systems. Through the use of distributed computer technology, organizations can migrate software applications formerly run on mainframes to personal computers, workstations and local area networks. This migration away from the mainframe can result in creating a faster, more efficient and therefore cost-effective information system for the organization.;This text will assist technical and non-technical readers with understanding the requirements of computer downsizing and the effects it has on the organizations information systems. |
