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OCR for page 43
Introduction
Hannah I. Blank *
The implications of small computer technology for large organi-
zations, whether corporate, government, or academic, are far-
reaching. They include technical, organizational, and, to some ex-
tent, societal issues.
The technical implications may be the least difficult to hancile:
· Data processing (DP) professionals will need new skills, such
as interfacing micros with minis or mainframes and generating
applications from generic packages with programmer tools differ-
ent from what they are accustomed} to using.
· Questions of architecture will have to be solved. Where does
the microcomputer fit in the overall computer architecture of a
given organization?
· Data integrity and security are high-visibility concerns mag-
nified by the ubiquity of the micro ant! the ease with which disk-
ettes can be copied and transported.
Small computer technology has generates! a new set of implica-
tions for an organization and its management:
· New job descriptions are emerging. Functions that did not
exist before are to some extent replacing existing functions.
· Higher skills may be required in the same job functions. This
may appear threatening to some individuals, while others may
regard it as an opportunity. One example is the use of the micro
*Hannah I. Blank is vice-president of the Domestic Institutional Bank, Chase Man-
hattan Bank, New York, New York.
43
OCR for page 44
44
MANAGING MICROCOMPUTERS
computer by the secretary not only for wore! processing but for
functions related to spreadsheets, data management, and even
graphics. Some may respond enthusiastically to learning new
skills; others may be intimidated.
· Different loci of power are being created in the organization,
and turf issues abound.
· Motivated by their own productivity needs, people outside
the data processing field, such as financial analysts, are to some
extent directing the use of micros. This can pose a threat to the
control that DP management has regarclec! as its right and re-
sponsibility.
A whole range of societal implications and concerns are inevita-
ble as microcomputers become a part of our everyday lives:
· Unlike the mainframe and the minicomputer, whose use was
confined to a professional class with specialized skills, the micro-
computer is infiltrating the lives of a great many people. It is ac-
cessible ant! usable at some level of complexity by virtually every-
one. On the job this will increase the clemand for micros, for
training, and for mobility. It also means that some computer liter-
acy will in all likelihood be acquired at home.
· The microcomputer acids fuel to the flames over "home-
work," an emotional issue for women and minorities. Homework
has positive benefits for women with children who do not want to
leave home for a full working day; for the disabler! who cannot
leave home; and for individuals with many interests who wish to
work only part time. Posed against these benefits are the opportu-
nities for employee exploitation on the part of the employers. The
cost and transportability of the micro magnify the possibilities.
The next three chapters offer a closer look at some of the spe-
cific problems that are arising as microcomputers become ac-
cepted tools in large organizations.
John Bennett, of United Technologies Corporation, considers
the implications of microcomputer growth for both systems de-
partments and general management. Ray Kline, of the General
Services Administration, explains some of the problems the fed-
eral government faces and the steps it is taking to respond to
technological change while maintaining management control. Fi-
nally, James H. Bair, of Hewlett-Packard, explores the evolution
of microcomputers and their potential roles in the office of the
future.
Representative terms from entire chapter:
concerns magnified
