Development of a Transparent Computer Application Distribution System for the Directorate of Civil Works.
Abstract
The number of computer programs and updates developed and distributed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers continues to grow. Processing, archiving onto diskette, and mailing this software can cost the Corps thousands of dollars and dozens of man-hours each year. Furthermore, diskettes are subject to damage or delay, which can create extra unnecessary costs for the Corps and its customers. This report documents the development of GAPPL (Get Application), a computer application distribution system designed to provide users in the Directorate of Civil Works quick, cost-effective access to group software and updates. GAPPL was designed to work transparently to the computer novice while offering the experienced user capabilities for customizing certain settings to better meet individual needs. GAPPL has been in use by the Civil Works Operations and Maintenance Branch since 1992. A return on investment for GAPPL has not been calculated, but experience with another electronically distributed Corps application suggests that distribution savings for a single new application to 40 districts may amount to almost $7200 annually. GAPPL is designed to distribute up to 30 applications.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1995
- Accession Number
- ADA294918
Entities
People
- Edward J. Japel
- Laura L. Harmet
- Scott Maxwell
- Wayne J. Schmidt
Organizations
- Construction Engineering Research Laboratory