RE: purpose of a computer to an organization -- MIDRANGE-L

Joel,

I explain the purpose of a computer to an organization as:

A computer is a 21st Century power tool. It extends the capabilities of humans in managing information and, if used correctly, enables them to be much more productive than they would be without it. While I used to use a drill press or a power saw, I now use a computer. The key is always "to use the right tool for the job". I wouldn't use pliers as a hammer. I wouldn't use a computer system designed for a single user when multiple users had to use the system at the same time. If the company intends to grow, then it is better to get started on a platform that will support that growth without disruption!

Does that do the job?

Policies and procedures tends to not be a starter for small entrepreneurial companies. They are MUCH more interested in results than in the methods used to get them (within the laws and the company's views on ethics).

Can you be more specific (off list) about the problems. If you want, I will help you address them more directly. Use jmyers@xxxxxxxxxx to respond.

... just my $.02 and Penn State MBA.

Sorry for the late reply, but I've been on the road and off-list in the interim.

John Myers
IBM Certified Specialist - IBM iSeries Technical Solutions Design
IBM Certified Specialist - Advisor for e-Business
Strategic Business Systems, Inc.
17 S. Franklin Turnpike, Ramsey, NJ 07446  USA
E-mail: mailto:jmyers@xxxxxxxxxx   Phone: +1 (201) EASY 400   x131
Web:    http://www.sbsusa.com      Fax:   +1 (201) 327-6984

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At 02:41 PM 4/23/2003, you wrote:

-----Original Message-----
From: Stone, Joel [mailto:StoneJ@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx]
Sent: Wednesday, April 23, 2003 1:57 PM
To: 'Midrange Systems Technical Discussion'
Subject: purpose of a computer to an organization


In one or two sentences, what is the benefit to a company of using a
multi-user computer system?

I mentioned to my mgmt that the fundamental purpose is to help management
enforce company policies and procedures, and received all sorts of flak.


This does lead to a technical point.  We have a part of our organization
that is having some problems.  Many are sure that the problems are caused by
users ie: "people not following company procedures".

My point is that if procedures are not being followed, that could be caused
by either:

1) People not following procedures

- or -

2)  The computer system is not adequately enforcing the company's policies
and procedures.


A simple example would be at an airline - a computer system helps gaurd
against anyone walking onto an aircraft for a free flight.  It is helping
enforce the company policy that everyone must pay to fly!

Any other opinions?