A Management Approach to the Development of Computer-Based Systems,

Abstract

Many organizations have experienced serious difficulties in developing complex computer-based systems, especially their software components. The problems include large cost overruns, schedule slippages, inadequate performance, and inability to use the system as originally envisioned. One major reason for such lack of success has been the inability of the management of the organization or the development effort to understand the need for a total-system management approach. In particular, acquisition of software and hardware separately with the hope of integrating them later does not work in complex systems. This paper outlines a management approach to acquiring computer systems which encompasses the whole system, with emphasis on the software, from the initial concept formulation to the support of the operational system. Expected improvements in the development process and organizational implications of this management approach are discussed. (Author)

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jul 01, 1976
Accession Number
ADA037895

Entities

People

  • M. R. Davis
  • R. N. Reinstedt
  • R. Turn

Organizations

  • RAND Corporation

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • C4I
  • Human Systems
  • Materials and Manufacturing Processes

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Acquisition
  • Air Force
  • Command And Control
  • Command And Control Systems
  • Complex Systems
  • Computer Programs
  • Computers
  • Control Systems
  • Cost Overruns
  • Costs
  • Life Cycles
  • Organizational Structure
  • Resource Management
  • Software Development
  • Specifications
  • Standards
  • Test And Evaluation

Fields of Study

  • Computer science

Readers

  • Defense Acquisition Program Management
  • Software Engineering.
  • Systems Analysis and Design