At our meeting, Jesse asked me how SCR should manage the TIMS system in the future. I need to search the Internet to learn more about version control, configuration management, and capacity planning, and send her the results of my research.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Answers will vary depending on the results of the research. In drafting the memo, students should consider the following points:
• Because enterprise-wide information systems are highly complex, the need for configuration management of software and techniques is critical.
• Software application changes come at a rate that could not have been imagined a few years ago. Most companies cannot shut down for every minor revision, and many firms find that quarterly or semi-annual service packs are the most desirable solution.
• Most companies depend on software vendor Web sites to obtain the latest updates.
• Companies must keep track of all system revisions.
• Successful companies understand the need for documentation changes. Every time a company performs adaptive or corrective maintenance, the IT department must ensure that all the required documentation is completed and updated.
With regard to capacity planning, the chapter points out that effective planning requires an accurate forecast of business activities. If new business functions or requirements are predicted, the system must be able to meet future demands and provide effective support for business operations. In an industry such as IT consulting, where mergers and acquisitions are common practice, it might make sense to do a “what-if” analysis about the impact of a hypothetical expansion.
In planning a response to this assignment, students should consider the firm’s history and track record regarding expansion. Apparently, SCR has evolved through internal growth, rather than mergers or acquisitions — but the past might not accurately predict the future. To be prudent, students should recognize that ease of future business partnering depends on SCR system scalability, flexibility, connectivity, and adherence to industry-standard protocols and designs.