Reference

NB3

Publi - cations

of Commerce

National Bureau

of Standards

NAT'L INST. OF STAND & TECH

AlllQb DMDSSB

. Science

and Technology

NBS Special Publication 500-102

Microcomputers:

A Review of Federal

Agency Experiences
NATIONAL BUREAU OF STANDARDS

The National Bureau of Standards' was established by an act ot Congress on March 3, 1901. The Bureau's overall goal is to strengthen and advance the Nation's science and technology

and facilitate their effective application for public benefit. To this end, the Bureau conducts

research and provides: (1) a basis for the Nation's physical measurement system, (2) scientific and technological services for industry and government, (3) a technical basis for equity in trade, and (4) technical services to promote public safety. The Bureau's technical work is per- formed by the National Measurement Laboratory, the National Engineering Laboratory, and

the Institute for Computer Sciences and Technology.

THE NATIONAL MEASUREMENT LABORATORY provides the national system of

physical and chemical and materials measurement; coordinates the system with measurement

systems of other nations and furnishes essential services leading to accurate and uniform

physical and chemical measurement throughout the Nation's scientific community, industry,

and commerce; conducts materials research leading to improved methods of measurement,

standards, and data on the properties of materials needed by industry, commerce, educational

institutions, and Government; provides advisory and research services to other Government

agencies; develops, produces, and distributes Standard Reference Materials; and provides

calibration services. The Laboratory consists of the following centers:

Absolute Physical Quantities^ — Radiation Research — Chemical Physics —

Analytical Chemistry — Materials Science

THE NATIONAL ENGINEERING LABORATORY provides technology and technical ser- vices to the public and private sectors to address national needs and to solve national problems; conducts research in engineering and applied science in support of these efforts; builds and maintains competence in the necessary disciplines required to carry out this research and technical service; develops engineering data and measurement capabilities;

provides engineering measurement traceability services; develops test methods and proposes

engineering standards and code changes; develops and proposes new engineering practices;

and develops and improves mechanisms to transfer results of its research to the ultimate user. The Laboratory consists of the following centers:

Applied Mathematics — Electronics and Electrical Engineering^ — Manufacturing

Engineering — Building Technology — Fire Research — Chemical Engineering^

THE INSTITUTE FOR COMPUTER SCIENCES AND TECHNOLOGY conducts

research and provides scientific and technical services to aid Federal agencies in the selection, acquisition, application, and use of computer technology to improve effectiveness and

economy in Government operations in accordance with Public Law 89-306 (40 U.S.C. 759), relevant Executive Orders, and other directives; carries out this mission by managing the Federal Information Processing Standards Program, developing Federal ADP standards

guidelines, and managing Federal participation in ADP voluntary standardization activities; provides scientific and technological advisory services and assistance to Federal agencies; and

provides the technical foundation for computer-related policies of the Federal Government.

The Institute consists of the following centers:

Programming Science and Technology — Computer Systems Engineering.

'Headquarters and Laboratories at Gaithersburg, MD, unless otherwise noted; mailing address Washington, DC 20234. 'Some divisions within the center are located at Boulder, CO 80303.
Computer Science

and Technology

NBS Special Publication 500-102

Microcomputers:

A Review of

Federal Agency Experiences

JUL ^ > '

Dennis Gilbert

Elizabeth Parker

Lynne Rosenthal

Institute for Computer Sciences and Technology

National Bureau of Standards

Washington, DC 20234

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

Malcolm Baldrige, Secretary

National Bureau of Standards

Ernest Ambler, Director

Issued June 1983
Reports on Computer Science and Technology

The National Bureau of Standards has a special responsibility within the Federal

Government for computer science and technology activities. The programs of the

NBS Institute for Computer Sciences and Technology are designed to provide ADP

standards, guidelines, and technical advisory services to improve the effectiveness

of computer utilization in the Federal sector, and to perform appropriate research

and development efforts as foundation for such activities and programs. This

publication series will report these NBS efforts to the Federal computer community as

well as to interested specialists in the academic and private sectors. Those wishing

to receive notices of publications in this series should complete and return the form

at the end of this publication.

National Bureau of Standards Special Publication 500-102

Natl. Bur. Stand. (U.S.), Spec. Publ. 500-102, 146 pages (June 1983)

CODEN: XNBSAV

Library of Congress Catalog Card Number: 83-600545

U.S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFRCE

WASHINGTON 1983

For sale by the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402

Price

(Add 25 percent for other than U.S. mailing)
Page i i i

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1

1. INTRODUCTION 4

1.1 Background 4

1.2 Purpose 5

1.3 Scope 5

1.4 Audience for this Document 5

1.5 Methodology for the Study 5

1.6 A Caveat 6

1.7 Overview of Document 6

1.8 Sources of Information 6

1.9 Disclaimer 8

2. MICROCOMPUTER MANAGEMENT ISSUES 9

2.1 Organizational Attitude and Approach to Microcomputers . 9

2.1.1 Need for an Organizational Approach 9

"2.1.2 Role and Focus of Microcomputers 10

2.1.3 Pace of Introduction of Microcomputers 12

2.1.4 Types of Management and Vehicles for Management . . 13

2.2 Agency Policy 14

2.3 Support Activities 16

2.4 Acquisition 17

2.5 Personnel 20

3. MICROCOMPUTER TECHNICAL CONSIDERATIONS 23

3.1 Application Requirements 23

3.1.1 Communications 23

3.1.2 Resource Sharing 23

3.1.3 Security 24

3.1.4 Reliability and Availability 24

3.2 Application Software 25

3.2.1 Purchased or Custom Software 25

3.2.2 Programming Languages 25

3.2.3 System Requirements 26

3.2.4 Application Integration 26

3.2.5 Documentation and Training 27

3.3 Operating Systems 27

3.3.1 System Configuration 27

3.3.2 Software 28

3.3.3 Transportability 28

3.3.4 Utilities 28
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page iv

Page

3.4 Hardware 28

3.4.1 Basic System 28

3.4.2 Microprocessors 29

3.4.3 Storage 29

3.4.4 Other Peripherals 29

3.4.5 Maintenance 30

4. SUMMARIES OF FEDERAL AGENCY EXPERIENCES 31

4.1 Sample Questionaire 32

4.2 Summaries of Agency Interviews 34

4.3 Summary Tabulation of Agency Questionnaires .... 50

4.4 Tabulation of Agency Provided Support 52

5. CONCLUSION 53

5.1 Observations 53

5.2 Trends , 54

5.3 Examples of Agency Microcomputer Activities .... 54

6. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 56

REFERENCES AND SUGGESTED READINGS 57

APPENDICES

A: Agency Contacts

B: Microcomputer Information Sources

C: Listing of Agency Documents

D: ICST Micro Electronic BBS Access Instructions

E: Completed Questionaires
Page 1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

1. INTRODUCTION

In recent years we have seen striking advances in the

cost/performance of microcomputer-related technology, an explosion of

interest in small computers, and a proliferation of computing

technology and resources. These developments are contributing to the

accessibility of computing power that was once the sole province of

large general purpose mainframes and minicomputers. New capabilities

are being sought by and provided to end users. New emphasis on the

role of end user computing in the organization is forcing rethinking

of many questions about information processing in the organization and

about the acquisition, management, and utilization of the new

technology. The Federal information manager is challenged with

effectively using the new technology to achieve near-term productivity

objectives, without inhibiting innovation and creativity.

This document presents the results of a recent study which

reviewed Federal agency experience with microcomputers. Its intended

audience includes all those who are interested in microcomputer-based

technology and want to benefit from current Federal experience. This

document is a "snapshot" taken during the period of

August, 1982 - January, 1983. It is not intended to be in-depth,

comprehensive, or statistically valid. We feel, however, that the

picture that emerges is sufficiently representative to be of value.

The results presented in this document represent a synthesis of

the information gathered from the interviews and from other available

sources of information (including informal discussions and an

examination of available literature, agency documents, and technical

publications). While some details about particular agencies may no

longer be appropriate, we feel that the underlying issues, questions,

considerations, concerns, and lessons learned are still valid and will

continue to be so in the near future.

The appendices of this document provide the reader with

preliminary sources of information about microcomputers. To

facilitate the exchange of information, an electronic bulletin board,

the ICST Microcomputer Electronic Information Exchange, (Telephone:

(301) 948-5718), has recently been established. This facility,

covering microcomputer-related subjects, is available to anyone who

has the appropriate dial-up terminal capabilities.
Page 2

2. MICROCOMPUTER MANAGEMENT ISSUES

The study identified a number of areas that were receiving

increasing attention by agency management staffs. The areas that are

discussed relate to the acquisition, operation, and management of

microcomputers. The discussions include the considerations,

decisions, and actions that need to be explored in order to: a)

exercise management control while capturing the potential of the

technology; b) establish applicable policy and guidance; c)

determine appropriate support activities and effective ways to provide

that support; d) facilitate the use of the technology, in a way so as

to minimize disruption and to enable an orderly transition to the

changed environment; and e) determine the skills required to

effectively manage and utilize the new information technology.

3. MICROCOMPUTER TECHNICAL CONSIDERATIONS

The technical considerations identified in the study include: a)

the application requirements that need to be specified for existing

and/or future systems to account for the capabilities of

communications, resource sharing, security, and

reliability/availability; b) the method by which application software

should be obtained (off-the-shelf vs custom software), and the

characteristics of programming languages, system configuration,

application integration, and documentation and training that are

required; c) the significant factors, in selecting an operating

system, that need to be considered with regard to: system

configuration, application software, transportability, and utilities;

and d) the features of hardware that are significant to users in

selecting and maintaining a system.

4. INTERVIEWS WITH FEDERAL AGENCIES

The results of the interviews conducted with Federal agencies

include: the questionnaire used in the interview process; summaries

of each interview session; a tabulation of the summarized responses;

and a tabulation of the support functions currently being provided by

agencies to their end users. Detailed agency responses are presented

in Appendix E.

5. CONCLUSIONS

In general, we observed an excitement generated by the

microcomputers and we noticed a growing number of individuals

interested in learning about and becoming users of the systems.

Agencies, in response, are exploring and developing policies and

structures to provide guidance and support to their end users.

Conversations with users and providers of support services indicate

that the models which are effective for managing microcomputers are
Page 3

those which promote responsive, centralized services to those who find

it to their advantage to use the services and conform to agency

standards and guidance. Such incentive-based support appeared to be a

major tool available to agencies for the management of the new

technology.

The major applications currently are word processing, spread sheet, and

data base management. The software is predominately single function,

off-the-shelf packages. New systems are evolving that incorporate

more powerful hardware and software, and combine the functionality of

the older systems with graphics and networking in new and creative

ways which present a more integrated environment to the user.

The variety, power, and sophistication of the hardware and software

continues to advance. While the sophistication of users and the

market place is also advancing, there is a corresponding need to share

information, with an increasing emphasis on applications and

technologies that address resource and data sharing. Although little

has so far been accomplished, the trend points to the increasing

integration of microcomputer systems into the total information

management schemes of Federal agencies.
Page 4

1 . INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background

Over the past few years the trickle of interest in small

computers has grown to flood proportions. We are experiencing an

unprecedented proliferation of computing technology and resources; we

are seeing the rapid invasion of many aspects of our work, home, and

leisure environments. Advances in semiconductor and related

technologies are making available computing power that was once the

sole province of large general purpose mainframes and minicomputers.

The end user now has immediate access to and control of substantial

computing power.

We are now, with growing frequency, made aware that something

exciting is happening. The media not only mirror the rapidly

increasing interest in microcomputers in our society, they also fuel

and accelerate the process. Time Magazine, in its January 3, 1983

edition, chose the computer for its Man of the Year. The amount and

breadth of media coverage, and other evidence, reinforce our intuitive

notions "that fundamental changes are taking place. These activities

suggest we are at a frontier that is rapidly changing as we observe

and experience it. New and appealing opportunities and promises are

implied - decreased drudgery, increased productivity, more emphasis on

creativity, new ways to learn, new ways to communicate, improved ways

to deliver products and services, new ways to plan, new ways to spend

our leisure time.

And yet, despite the lure and excitement. Federal information

managers and others are increasingly aware that the traditional tools

(e.g., analytical techniques, methodologies, literature) have not been

adequately applied to the new technology. They have neither had the

personal and organizational experiences nor developed the necessary

understandings to comprehend fully the implications of the changes

taking place. They are frustrated by the gap between the potential

and the wherewithal to make it a reality. They are becoming

increasingly aware of the need to reexamine basic concepts of data

processing and information management. New emphasis on the role of

end user computing in the organization and the growing availability of

substantial, individual computing power is forcing rethinking of

questions about the organization's attitude toward the nisw technology,

how information and resources are to be distributed, how the new

resources are to be acquired and managed, and the relationship of the

new technology to traditional data processing.

The task facing the Federal information manager is to identify

resources, to develop policies, and to create an environment which

promotes effective use of the new technology and which simultaneously

rewards, rather than inhibits, innovation and creativity. Federal

policies and regulations were developed in an era in which mainframe

orientation predominated. They must either be modified or implemented

in ways which take cognizance of differing needs and environments. It

is ironic (and fortunate) that the new technologies may be not only

the source of the challenge, but also the source of the solutions for

dealing with them.
Page 5

1.2 Purpose

The purpose of this document is to present the results of a

recent study which reviewed Federal agency experience with

microcomputers. It is intended that by better understanding what

other Federal agencies are experiencing and planning and what

management issues and technical considerations are being addressed,

the reader will be in a better position to make more informed

decisions among the viable options available. It is additionally

intended that this document contribute to raising the general level of

microcomputer awareness and literacy. By identifying other sources of

information and contact points it is hoped that the network of Federal

information managers, end users, and others concerned with

understanding the new technologies will be expanded.

1 . 3 Scope

This document is a "snapshot" of the current (August,

1982 - January, 1983) levels of awareness, management, policy, and use

of microcomputers in a few Federal agencies. It is not intended to be

in-depth or comprehensive or statistically valid. While it is

extremely difficult to determine with certainty the extent of computer

activity within any given agency, or what is happening throughout the

Federal Government, we feel that the picture that emerges from this

study is sufficiently representative to be of value to its audience.

1.4 Audience for this Document

The intended audience for this document includes all those who

are interested in microcomputer-based technology and want to benefit

from the current Federal experience. These include those who: a)

determine agency microcomputer policy, b) specify requirements, c)

evaluate, select, and procure microcomputers, d) use microcomputers,

e) manage large numbers of users of microcomputers, f) expect to

manage and to use microcomputers. While the focus of this document is

toward the Federal community, it should also be of value to those of

the private sector and academic communities who are dealing or wish to

deal with microcomputers.

1.5 Methodology for the Study

The methodology for this study consisted primarily of

interviewing representatives of a limited number of Federal Government

agencies on their policies and experiences with microcomputers.

Prospective interviewees were identified by word-of-mouth, through

professional meeting contacts, and by reference from other

interviewees. The interviews were conducted by Institute for Computer

Sciences and Technology (ICST) staff with the assistance of the

Federal Computer Performance and Evaluation Center (FEDSIM) . To

facilitate and focus the interviews, a questionnaire was developed

that covered basic data and issues to be addressed. Additionally, the

questionnaire was used as a point of departure and the discussions

took the form of a free interchange of information and perspectives.

A copy of the questionnaire can be found in Section 4.1. In addition

to the formal interviews, many informal discussions were held with
Page 6

numerous people, both in and out of Government - end users,

information managers, policy makers, ADP professionals, consultants,

industry representatives, publications personnel, information utility

providers, and vendors. Further, information was gathered from

Federal and agency policy documents, available professional and

popular periodicals, information services (including bibliographic

retrieval, electronic bulletin boards, and other electronic discussion

groups), commercially prepared technology studies and forecasts,

vendor literature, and personal experience with home and business

microcomputer systems. The results presented in this document

represent a synthesis of the information gathered from these sources.

It should be noted that while the interviewees were knowledgeable

and shared much microcomputer-related information about their

organizations, they were not speaking as official spokespersons for

their agencies. References in this document to "agencies" and their

activities, policies, opinions, and feelings should be viewed in that

context

.

1.6 A Caveat

To use this document appropriately, it is necessary to understand

that many aspects of the environment are changing very quickly. The

microcomputer marketplace, the types of products and the pace at which

they are announced and made available (not necessarily synonymous),

the costs of systems, and the level of user and agency awareness and

activity are undergoing rapid transformations. As a result, some

details about particular agencies may no longer be appropriate, and

care must be exercised in interpreting the snapshot taken of a dynamic

environment. We feel, however, that the underlying issues, questions,

considerations, concerns, and lessons learned in this study are still

valid - and will continue to be in the near future.

1.7 Overview of Document

The remainder of this document presents the results of our look

at current Federal agency experience with microcomputers and of

related information gathering efforts. In order to help the reader

focus on relevant concerns, the next two sections address specific

management issues and technical considerations, respectively.

Composite agency profiles/summaries are presented in Section 4,

Observations and recommendations are made in Section 5. The

appendices contain valuable pointers to other sources of information.

1.8 Sources of Information

Technology is changing rapidly and useful technical information

frequently experiences a rapid rate of decay. Many sources of

information exist, but the person seeking such information is often

overloaded with data, but starved for information that is useful. The

task at hand is one of understanding what current sources of

information exist and how to tap into them - and how to interact with

others who have similar problems and solutions. In this context, we

would especially like to draw attention to the appendices of this

document which we feel can provide the reader with an initial road map
Page 7

to sources of information about microcomputers and the new and

emerging technologies. This is only an initial effort at gathering

this information together. It is our intention to maintain current

data on these and related resources. We extend an invitation to you

to share with us sources that have been of value to you and/or that

you would like to see included. As appropriate we will update this

electronic bulletin board of information and information sources and

make it available.

To obtain updated and additional sources of information,

participate in direct discussion, ask or answer questions, and/or

network with others who have related interests you may use the:

ICST Microcomputer Electronic Information Exchange

Telephone: (301) 948-5718

This recently established electronic bulletin board on

microcomputer-related subjects is available to government and

non-government persons who have the appropriate dial-up terminal

capabilities. (See Appendix D for access instructions). In addition

to providing bulletins on items of particular or timely interest, the

information exchange will provide for one-to-one and one-to-many

communication; leaving and reading of messages; and up- and

down- loading of public domain software and files (as available). No

pre-established passwords or user ID's are required.

The System Selection and Evaluation (SS&E) Group has

responsibility for providing guidance to agencies in making informed

choices among the available alternatives to manage, operate, and

acquire information resources. Microcomputers and related new

technologies play a large role in its programs. Among its activities,

the group operates, for ICST, the Microcomputer Laboratory. This

facility, which houses a variety of popular and newly released

hardware and software, provides the opportunity to investigate and

compose experience-based assessments of commercially available

offerings by ICST and other government agencies. For further

information about the Microcomputer Laboratory, the Microcomputer

Electronic Information Exchange, and ICST's microcomputer-related

activities and services, contact the System Selection and Evaluation

Group by means of the Information Exchange or at the following

address

.

System Selection and Evaluation Group

National Bureau of Standards

B266 Technology Building

Washington, DC 20234

Telephone: (301) 921-3485
Page 8

1.9 Disclaimer

Because of the nature of this report, it is necessary to mention

vendors and commercial products. The presence or absence of a

particular trade name product does not imply criticism or endorsement

by the National Bureau of Standards, nor does it imply that the

products identified are necessarily the best available for the

purpose

.
Page 9

2.0 MICROCOMPUTER MANAGEMENT ISSUES

A number of management issues came out of our study. These have

been subjectively grouped into major areas covering: Organizational

Attitude and Approach to Microcomputers, Agency Policy, Support

Structures, Acquisition, and Personnel. The issues and concerns

identified and the related questions raised in each area are discussed

below.

2.1 Organizational Attitude and Approach to Microcomputers

This section examines the issues and concerns regarding the

agency's organizational attitude and approach to microcomputers.

2.1.1 Need for an Organizational Approach

Issue/Concern: Microcomputers can represent significant

organizational resources and significant potential (for productivity,

waste, and lost opportunity). There is a growing need to develop an

organizational view and to manage the rapidly changing technology.

Th'e interviewed agencies unanimously agreed that there is a

growing awareness within their organizations that microcomputers are

becoming powerful resources and can no longer be viewed as "toys" that

will soon be discarded, but rather must be viewed as resources that

must be taken seriously. They indicated that their organizations

recognize potential opportunity, challenge, and problems. There is

growing understanding that the costs of individual microcomputers and

software packages are small; however, when multiples of

microcomputers, hardware products, software packages, staff time and

opportunity costs are considered, substantial "organizational"

resources are using and being affected by microcomputers. There

seemed to be general agreement that, in the long-term, effective

management would require an organizational view and an organizational

approach to the management of microcomputers. Such a view, they felt,

was necessary to address major questions of concern related to:

a) planning for microcomputers

b) the pace of introduction of the new technology

c) the impact of the technology on the organization

However, few of the interviewed agencies had formulated a

comprehensive "world view." Because the technology is advancing so

rapidly, and because the infusion and proliferation of microcomputers

is so recent, only a very few of the organizations interviewed had

either sufficient time or resources to take the broad view required to

understand and assess the technology and develop a scenario for the

role it should play in their organizations. Some of those interviewed

expressed the view that the "slowness" in forming such a "corporate"

attitude was not necessarily a "bad thing." Rather, they saw it as an

appropriate caution in an environment in which the technology, and an

understanding of how to manage and use it, are still very immature.

Unfortunately, the consequence of a (perhaps short-lived) lack of an

"organizational" view (and policy) towards microcomputers is confusion

for many concerned and leaves unclear such questions as how
Page 10

microcomputers are to be acquired and how they are to be used. They

saw its absence, along with the rapidity of change, as having

contributed to frustration among some groups because of not being able

to incorporate fully the technology into either their day- to-day

operations or their long-range system planning.

In the process of discussing organizational perspective, those

interviewed identified a number of related areas. These included:

the role and focus of microcomputers, the pace of introduction of the

new technology, and the type of management and vehicles for exercising

it. Each of these areas is discussed below.

2.1.2 The Role and Focus of Microcomputers

Issue/Concern: What roles do microcomputers play and will they

play? What is the appropriate role of microcomputers in the

organization ?

The introduction of microcomputers has occurred for a variety of

reasons in the various agencies. In the agencies interviewed there

have been two major sources pushing microcomputers. One source has

been the user population. This is especially true in environments

where there is a highly technical or scientific base. In these

situations, employees recognize that the microcomputers can be used

for their own individual productivity and are either obtaining them

directly or are making demands on their management and their data

processing departments to provide them with the resources. For them,

the microcomputer is very much an individual, personal work station

with the employee finding little requirement for sharing beyond the

self-contained unit. In many cases, the motivation comes because of

personal experience with a home system or from exposure to the media.

In some instances the employees either take work home or buy their own

systems to bring into work as a means to make their jobs easier, and

to increase their own productivity.

It was reported that some individuals saw microcomputers as ways

of avoiding problems they've had with traditional data processing.

These problems are typically associated with system availability and

reliability, and the users saw microcomputers as not being affected by

the main processor's down time. The microcomputers further provided a

basic set of capabilities - word processing, spread sheet analysis,

and data base management - that gives the end users an adequate set of

capabilities which allows them to do work on their own without

depending on data processing people and overloaded clerical support.

Microcomputers are seen as a way to do work at ones own speed, in

ones own time frame, minimally restricted by outside constraints, and

higher level approvals.

What the agency managers have told us, in effect, is that a

number of their people have seen the capabilities of the

microcomputer. They want to incorporate it into their way of doing

work and have taken the initiative. The use of microcomputers is very

much end user initiated and driven. Typically, end users, because

they are using a tool in a productive, utilitarian way, are willing to
Page 11

go through the related "pain" of learning. For the agencies' first

wave of users, that's their orientation.

The next wave was typically inspired not by end users, but by

their agency management or ADP shop who saw how microcomputers were

being used and wanted their people to have them for some of the same

applications. This group of users has a different motivation and

different dynamics are involved. It is someone else - their

management - that is making microcomputers available or relatively

easy to obtain, and encouraging their use.

Why are mi c r

o

cqmpu

t

er s being used? The interviewed agencies are

not making heavy use of appli cat ion- specific software packages (i.e.,

general ledger, inventory control) but are using a subset of wha-t is

available. Programs are available in a variety of application areas,

but the extent of use of these packages has not been determined. It

appears from the interviews that the agencies (and to some extent,

private industry) are making primary use of off-the-shelf, general

purpose packages, such as word processing, data base management,

spread sheet analysis, and graphics. Scientific communities are

relying more heavily on languages than on packages. Whenever

feasible, however, packages are selected which can be modified to meet

their needs. An example of this use is a package called Modem 7, a

communications package being modified and used by several of the

interviewed agencies to interface microcomputers to mainframe

computers

.

Those interviewed indicated that even though there has not been a

rush to use the application specific packages, a growing number and

variety of software packages that address a wide range of application

areas are becoming available. Some that show promise are areas of

accounting and record keeping, training/education, energy conservation

and management, engineering and scientific applications, management

sciences, programming aids and systems development, project

scheduling, product and service distribution, time and personal

management, self improvement, and transportation management. Though

the agencies are aware of these packages and see potential benefit in

their use, they have not decided what their* approach should be at this

time. In a similar vein, the agencies indicated that they have made

relatively little use of bibliographic retrieval or other utility

information services available by means of their microcomputers and

modems (even though their libraries may subscribe).

What do the ag_encies see as the role of the microcomputer within

thei r o^^a^i^^l^'Q^ and how "do they £ee that role impacting their

organizations? The interviewed agencies have only made initial

efforts at answering this question. Until recently, all processing

and analysis was performed on the agencies' mainframe and minicomputer

systems or by hand. Now, microcomputers allow many applications to be

performed at lower costs than on mainframes and also allow

applications that were never computerized in their organizations. The

current focus of microcomputer use within the agencies was indicated

to be as follows:

* to increase the agency's efficiency and effectiveness
Page 12

* to increase clerical and end-user productivity

* as a managerial aid

* as communications media

* to distribute information

* as a gateway to external information sources

The impact of microcomputers on the agencies has not been

determined so far. Some have suggested that microcomputers have not

been used in enough ways and for a sufficient amount of time to make

such a determination. The potential impact is considered to be

far-reaching. The Department of Defense, (DOD), recognizing this

potential, commissioned a continuing study on the Impacts of Low Cost

Computing on the Department of Defense YOUN82 . The findings of this

study, and other studies, may help information-hungry Federal agencies

achieve a better understanding of the problem, in terms of (a) the

types of support structures that are required (b) the potential impact

on their organizations, and (c) the types of microcomputer policy that

may be appropriate,

2.1.3 Pace of Introduction of Microcomputers

Issue/Concern: At what pace should microcomputers be introduced

into the agency?

The extent to which the microcomputer technology is implemented

and the pace at which the implementation is to proceed can reflect the

agency's philosophy about: a) microcomputers, b) long range and short

range goals, and c) management, ADP, and user orientations. The early

introduction of microcomputers in most of the interviewed agencies was

a result of user initiation. Currently, the users or the higher level

management (typically ADP management) control the sequence and pace of

the introduction of microcomputers in the agencies. Approximately

half the agencies have users exerting the major influence on the

sequence and pace of introduction. Regardless of who controlled the

pace, several factors that influenced it within the interviewed

agencies were:

* the degree to which current systems are satisfactorily meeting

the agency/user needs.

* the degree to which the technology (hardware, software) meets the

application requirements.

* the availability of knowledgeable personnel (users, ADP

staff, etc.) to acquire, manage, or operate the microcomputer

systems.

* the availability of funds for the purchase of a microcomputer

system and any related expenses.

* the degree of integration and compatibility of the microcomputer

with current information systems.

* the degree to which the technology fits into the agency's long

and short range plans

.
Page 13

Although microcomputers are being introduced, for the most part,

at either a fast or moderate pace in the interviewed agencies, we

believe that most agencies (and private industry) are introducing

microcomputers at a relatively slow pace. This difference, between

what we observed and what we believe to be the situation, is due to

our methodology for choosing the interviewed agencies, and discussions

that we have had with several other Federal agencies. We chose to

interview agencies which were actively exploring the microcomputer

technology and related issues. The lack of knowledgeable staff and

funding were the major reasons given for not introducing

microcomputers faster. The application requirement was the single

most important reason for the introduction of microcomputers.

Agencies with scientif ic/technical users were the most aggressive,

with management driven, administrative agencies following a more

moderate or slower pace.

2.1.4 Types of Management and Vehicles for Management

Issue/concern: What is the appropriate degree of management and

control of microcomputers and what are the vehicles for exercising

that control, consistent with the organization's mission, personality,

and resources.

The agencies interviewed were trying to find a middle ground in

the spectrum of tight control (requiring justification and

accountability on the individual unit level) and laissez-faire.

The use of microcomputers in many agencies began in very informal

ways, with users and user departments acquiring microcomputer systems

with little DP or MIS staff assistance, or sometimes even awareness.

As a result, many agencies have no actual count of the number of

microcomputers currently being used, nor do they have a good handle on

the applications to which they're being applied. Other agencies, from

the outset, controlled the acquisition of microcomputers. Generally,

however, even in the latter case, there was rarely more than a

supposition of numbers and applications.

Two types of situations appeared to lead to close tracking of

agency use of microcomputers: a) those in which the microcomputers

were being used for a very specific application; and b) those

instances in which a high level of support was being provided to

users. In the latter case, the users made their requirements and

applications known to the support staff because the user was confident

that improved service/support could be gotten in exchange.

All the interviewed agencies indicated that some degree of

management and control was appropriate and necessary. They all voiced

variations of the theme that, over the long term, control will:

a) help ensure that purchased equipment is

compatible with other information systems with

which the microcomputers will communicate
Page 14

b) that microcomputers are being used effectively

c) that systems are capable of performing as required

d) that appropriate resource sharing is facilitated

e) that acquisitions are in accord with the agency's

requirements for systems development and they can be

integrated with the agency's long range information

systems plans

Some conflict as to the need for management controls was

expressed by a number of interviewees. One source of the conflict was

the difficulty of achieving these benefits of control because of low

individual unit costs, the distributed nature of the resources, the

rate at which new products were being made available. Another source

of conflict derives from the feeling that this is a time of much

excitement and much to learn and much to experiment and innovate with.

Concern was voiced that in the process of attempting to control

microcomputers, the organization should not overly stifle or inhibit

creativity — just channel it productively.

There was general agreement that although some general principles

were applicable, each organization was unique. It was therefore felt

that the level and type of control should be determined by each

individual agency and be consistent with the agency's organization,

authorization policies, computing strategies, and type of support

structures, and personnel and other resources. Additionally, a number

of interviewees indicated that despite the immaturity and uncertainty

of the microcomputer markets, it was not too soon for each

organization to make explicit decisions on the way it will manage this

new technology. It was felt that delay in acting could have potential

cost and far-reaching implications for the agency. However, such

action, they felt, needs to permit sufficient flexibility to allow for

timely response to the inevitable and sudden shifts that would occur.

The interviews identified two main vehicles for managing

microcomputers: a) the establishment of policy; and b) the

establishment of support structures. These are discussed in sections

2.2 and 2.3.

2.2 Agency Policy

Issue/Concern: Should agencies establish formal policy and

guidance with respect to microcomputer justification, acquisition,

installation, and operation.

The dynamics of microcomputer technology and the proliferation of

microcomputers throughout the Federal agencies has led to the need to

develop microcomputer policies. Although policies are being

developed, concern has been expressed as to the appropriateness of

creating timely and comprehensive standards and/or guidelines for a

technology which is changing rapidly and has many unexplored

capabilities. (See [KAYP83] for a technological forecast).
Page 15

The internal policies governing microcomputers have been the

articulation, formalization, and implementation of the

"organizational" attitude with respect to microcomputers. The

agencies suggested several possible objectives for establishing

microcomputer polices. These were:

* to define the role of the microcomputer within the agency's

information management structure

* to set the framework for the systems to be supported

* to define the roles and responsibilities of managers, users,

and support staff

* to define the potential microcomputer users, systems and/or

applications

* to promote product flexibility and provide for future

expandabi 1 i ty

* to specify and ensure the integration of microcomputers

with other information systems

* to protect the security and integrity of resources

The form of the policy (e.g. standards, guidelines, directives),

the degree of enforcement, and the coverage were also factors for

consideration. Since the policy specifications can impose a degree of

constraint on the available microcomputer products, each agency had to

balance these constraints with compatibility considerations as well as

the depth and range of the functions it could support. Many policies

were implicit practices and not explicitly stated in documents. Most

agencies with written policies produced guidance documents rather than

standards. For specific policy documents, see Appendix C: Agency

Documents. The documents recommend hardware and software products and

do not require a user to adhere to the guidelines. The development of

"standards" documents has been limited. These documents require the

user to conform to the hardware and software specified in the

document. A waiver must be obtained for any deviation from the

standard. The agencies recognize the volatility of the technology and

plan to issue changes to the policy and guidelines as time and

circumstances dictate.

The extent of coverage of the microcomputer policies varied with

the policy objectives. The degree of policy coverage differed but

included: acquisition, selection, management, and/or operation.

Several agencies did not distinguish between microcomputers and other

ADP equipment, and thus the same policies are used. However, because

unit costs of microcomputers fall below the dollar theshold levels,

several of the policy procedures for acquisition (e.g. justification

and approval levels) are irrelevant and ignored for microcomputer

acquisitions. Many of the microcomputer policies specify a minimum

set of hardware, system and application software, and communication

interface products. The use of existing and defacto standards were

encouraged throughout the policies. In addition to the recommended
Page 16

products, most policies included an explanation of the product

selection and the reasons/rationale for its inclusion.

2.3 Support Activities

Issue/Concern: What support do end users require and what is the

most effective way to provide that support?

Users are seeking guidance and assistance in the selection,

evaluation, and operation of microcomputer hardware and software, and

training in its use. The support functions requested range from

volume purchase agreements, to consulting services for system

selection; training and technical assistance in operation and

implementation of the system; information exchanges such as

newsletters, bulletin boards, or conferences; and in a few cases,

custom written and supported software packages. We were told that

many users have acquired their microcomputer systems with little or no

assistance from the agency, but request or require assistance to

extend the capabilities of the microcomputer beyond its original

intended purpose (e.g., interface with the agency computers and data

sources )

.

Agencies are concerned with providing support functions to assist

their users. Most of the agencies we interviewed stressed the

importance of providing assistance to the users, but do not wish to

control the introduction or use of the microcomputers. Due to the

variety of microcomputer systems in the agencies and the marketplace,

agencies have designed incentive based support programs. Support

functions are available for a limited set of hardware and software

products. Users are encouraged to use these recommended products if

support is desired. The support functions offered by the interviewed

agencies varied. An Arthur Young study conducted for the Department

of Defense CYOUN82] identified thirteen different microcomputer

support activities:

* monitor technological trends

* develop microcomputer expertise in selected systems

* disseminate current technological information

* assist users in systems selection

* trouble-shoot during operations and maintenance

* evaluate hardware vendors

* evaluate software packages

* negotiate volume procurements

* design/deliver training

* build compatible micro/mini/maxi architecture

* establish a central demonstration room

* offer standard applications systems

* establish an information center

Several of the agencies interviewed provide a subset of these support

activites. No agency is currently providing all of them. Section 4.4

contains a tabulated summary of the support functions and the levels

of support currently being provided by the agencies. Nearly all the

agencies are providing or plan to provide some degree of support.
Page 17

Within the agencies, the support functions are being implemented

by a centralized staff and/or by individuals who have been recognized

as microcomputer experts. The reasons cited for implementing a

centralized structure were:

* to eliminate duplication of effort.

* the economies of volume purchases.

* to promote efficient and effective methods for the exchange of

information and resources.

* to enable transportability and compatibility of software and

data.

* to be consistent with the agency's physical and organizational

structure which is oriented for centralized support.

* to gather knowledge of organizational requirements for use in

long range planning.

The most common support structure was a centralized microcomputer

group composed of individuals with technical backgrounds in data

processing and a particular interest in the emerging technology of

microcomputers [YOUN82]. Several of the decentralized agencies have

encouraged its subordinate agencies and field installations to

establish a local, central support staff. A small number of agencies

did not have any central support staff due to the organizational

structure or a lack of money, staff, or work hours. In these agencies

(this also occurred in agencies with a support staff), the only

support available is from individual users who have emerged as

microcomputer experts. These individuals, in addition to their

assigned tasks, provide microcomputer advice and information. Often,

the number of requests for information has been so great that the

"expert" has not had the time to perform his/her assigned job.

2.4 Acquisition

Issue/Concern: How should systems (hardware/sof tware ) be

acquired to facilitate use of the new technology in a way to minimize

disruption and enable an orderly transition to the changed

environment?

Acquisition is an issue because of the current environment in

which the end users and their managers are buying microcomputers.

This has not been the customary way to buy computers. The customary

way is characterized by full systems staff involvement and control.

Agencies acknowledge that their systems staff are frequently not

involved in any aspect of the acquisition process, but systems staff

insist that their involvement is necessary to prevent waste and to

achieve the potential economies that come from buying microcomputers

and utility software in quantity (i.e., lower unit costs on hardware

and on software packages; single or central source for procurement

and acquisition information; lower unit costs for maintenance,

upgrades, and repairs). They say that higher level management
Page 18

involvement is also necessary to insure that systems that are acquired

are compatible with agency data processing systems with which the

microcomputers may be required to communicate or to share resources or

for which the agency may later be required to provide support.

Whp should be i nvolved in Hl5£°£^E!it®?. acquisitions? The

agencies agree that there "Is^a role for all parties: aF end user, b)

the user's management, c) the systems staff, and d) the agency policy

management (IRM). They find that the process works best when each

contributes in his/her area of expertise:

* the policy staff represents top management, knows the strategic

goals, establishes and administers the agency's ADP policies.

* the systems staff is familiar with the technology and with

agency computer resources; knows the issues and regulations

related to acquisition, but the staff may be removed from the

user's problem definition and unique computing requirements.

* the user's manager knows the problem and is aware of the budget

and program priorities, but may be removed from the technology.

* the user knows the problem, but may know little about program

priorities, regulations, policies, or long term goals.

The problem is that each may not be aware of the other's

strengths and limitations, and the contributions that each can make to

the process. Agency managers that we interviewed are concerned that

unless the acquisition process is regulated and to some degree

controlled, some of the problem areas usually associated with large

mainframe environments, could become even larger problems in the

microcomputer environment.

Agencies have just begun to address the issues related to

uncontrolled microcomputer acquisitions. Also on the horizon are the

problems related to the need to upgrade current systems to take

advantage of the new technologies and the new capabilities.

What are some of the Federal initi atives that provide support in

this area? There are several initiatives currently on the Federal

level TgSA and DOD), directed at simplifying the acquisition of large

numbers of microcomputers. The agencies are not required to follow

these initiatives, which are intended to assist them in buying

microcomputers. The interviewee at GSA indicated that their contract

to buy microcomputers is part of a pilot project designed to reduce

the complexities, paperwork, and time required to justify and receive

microcomputers. This pilot involves three agencies: Agriculture,

GSA, and Army; however, at the end of the pilot project, other

agencies will be allowed to use this same mechanism to buy

microcomputers

.

GSA also discussed their Multiple Award Schedule Contract (MASC)

program which has been expanded to included almost all of the popular

personal computers. This program is intended to provide a quick and

least-cost method of acquiring these small computer systems.
Page 19

Additionally, in an effort to make microcomputers more readily

available to managers, GSA is planning to open (Sept., 1983) a chain of

contractor-operated microcomputer discount stores, which will provide

guidance, training, and maintenance for the computers which it sells

to the government agencies. The aim is to encourage managers who may

not have considered using a computer to do so.

Agencies would like to avoid the paperwork requirement and the

limited discounts available for single machine purchases, but few of

those interviewed were doing volume purchasing. The Geological Survey

is doing volume purchasing and is making microcomputers available to a

number of its scientists and engineers. There are substantial

discounts being offered according to the agencies. The interviewed

official at the Office of General Services for New York State,

indicated that discounts of 20% to 50% off the purchase price for two

or more microcomputers, have been quoted. Interviewed officials

indicated that volume purchases have the disadvantage of locking the

agency into a particular level of technology and software, but at the

same time, have the advantage of providing leverage and increasing

vendor responsiveness. For example, vendors who are supplying the

agencies with large numbers of microcomputers, may also provide other

services, 'such as maintenance, parts, and training. On the other

hand, if agencies are going to purchase microcomputers in quantity

now, they know that the systems run now, are reliable, and that

quality software packages are available.

One of the interviewees suggested that when negotiating for

quantities of microcomputers, agencies should (a) look for

opportunities to buy at discounted prices; (b) look for the best

deals; (c) exercise care in knowing who will honor guarantees and

warrantees and who is providing them, manufacturer or vendor.

Sometimes substantial price breaks are available, but caution is

required in terms of the ability of the vendor to deliver what has

been promised, when it has been promised and to stand behind it,

especially at the low price. One implication of low price is a lower

level of vendor service, because the profit margin is low.

What constraints and/or requi rement s are i mposed on agenci es with

respect to micros and what sources of help and information are

available? The agencies discussed some of the existing regulations

affecting ADP acquisition and their relationship to microcomputers.

Explicit GSA procurement regulations (FPR 1-4.1109-6) exist for

computer systems costing in excess of $300,000. Systems costing less

are covered by GSA's Federal Supply Schedule Program. Several of the

agencies indicated that despite these regulations, the Federal

government is not yet prepared to control the acquisition and use of

microcomputers that can be purchased for less than $10,000, the lower

limit for GSA systems regulations. A provision in the Federal Supply

Schedule authorizes the procurement of systems directly from the

vendors up to the maximum ordering limitation, but calls for

negotiation above that level. Federal procurement regulations to

achieve quantity discounts, (FPMR 101-26.106), call for the

consolidation of agency procurements. The interviewed individuals

suggest that modifications to the regulations are required to reflect
Page 20

the changed and evolving technological environment in which

microcomputers are being acquired.

A related issue, which was of concern to all the interviewed

agencies, deals with the acquisition and use of proprietary software

and software licenses. The purchase of licensed software permits it

to be used only in accordance with the provisions of the purchase

agreement. These provisions frequently address the confidentiality of

trade secrets and restrictions on the numbers and kinds of copies of

the software and documentation that may be made and on which machines

it may run. It is unclear, however, whether signing a license

agreement is necessary to make it binding or whether even opening a

package in which the agreement is visible is proof of agreement. It

is of importance to agency management to know who is authorized to

enter into such an agreement and the extent of liability incurred by

the individual and the organization. Also in question is the extent

to which the agency is required to make its people aware of the

license terms. Individual agencies cannot solve this problem, but

must be made aware of it. It is a government-wide problem which

requires a government-wide solution.

An issue for the agency in formulating its policy is the set of

legal implications of its contractual arrangements for software.

Agencies advise their users that software must be legally obtained.

However, implementation of the policy is difficult. The conflict

arises when multiple users want to experiment with the software, but

do not wish to invest the purchase price while experimenting. Several

agencies have addressed a part of the problem with their demonstration

facilities where legal copies of software are available for user

experimentation and use. Another agency centrally procures software

packages and provides support only for legal copies of the packages.

2.5 Personnel

Issue/Concern: What skills are and will be required to manage

and utilize effectively the new information technology and what is the

best way to transition to them?

Personnel considerations such as staffing, training, and job

responsibilties are changing due to the influence of microcomputers.

Traditionally, the users of computers and the providers of computer

support each represent a certain mix of skills and responsibilities.

The agencies realize that: a) the new microcomputer technology

requires the user to have a different set of skills than in the past,

b) that users will be required to perform some activities usually

performed by the systems group, and c) that management needs to take a

new look at how responsibilities should be assigned for this new

environment. The agencies want to move from the "old" environment to

the "new" in a way that minimizes disruption to the organization's

effectiveness and to the well-being of its staff. However, the

agencies interviewed seem to have addressed few of the personnel

issues related to microcomputer use and support.

Agencies are concerned about their ability to hire, promote, and

keep qualified personnel. The influx of microcomputers is causing the
Page 21

job performed by many of the agency users to change. 0PM job

classifications and agency position descriptions do not yet adequately

reflect the changing environment. In several agencies, users, (i.e.,

secretaries) want their job/position descriptions to reflect their use

of microcomputers. Agencies are concerned that their slowness to

properly incorporate changes to their personnel policies may

negatively impact their ability, in the long run, to respond to

technology changes. The salary structure of the government, the pace

of introduction of microcomputer technology, and "promises" of private

industry are inhibiting agencies from hiring and keeping the

technically qualified workers. Agency management and workers alike

are only beginning to think about the impact of the changing

technology on such things as: productivity, the quality of working

life, job security, and morale. Although private industry has also

been slow to address these issues, organizations such as the

Communications Workers of America have projects to examine these

questions [COMM83].

A large and growing number of training vehicles are available to

train both end users and those that support them. Classes,

conferences, workshops, seminars, etc., address many aspects of the

new technology and are being provided by several agencies. Appendix B

contains a list of several other organizations that also provide these

services. Programmed instruction and video/audio instruction are also

being used as training media. The video disc combined with the

microcomputer provides a powerful tool for personalized, interactive

instruction. Projects making use of this technology in other

government agencies and private industry have been described to us,

but none of the interviewees mentioned this capability. Some

interesting work in this area is being done by the Federal Interagency

Group for Computer-Based Training. Their recently compiled document,

Computer-Based Training Starter Kit, is directed at the training

professional with little background in the application of ADP systems.

In most agencies, the assignment of microcomputer related roles

and responsibilities is not yet formally defined, but is evolving.

For example, the responsibilities of the AD^ system staff is being

shared with or assumed by microcomputer end-users. This sharing of

roles is viewed by some agencies as an unnecessary duplication of

effort. However, agencies acknowledge that they are not prepared to

have the ADP staff provide all the services, training, and support

that the microcomputer users require.

In the study for DOD [YOUN82] nine private industry companies

were reviewed. One of the tables presented in that study, lists the

microcomputer-related roles (support activities) and the group

assigned responsibility for the roles. Where there is more central

support provided to end users more of the roles are the responsibility

of the systems group. In companies where there is little central

support users have assumed the roles required to support themselves in

the microcomputer environment. The first of the roles listed remained

with the systems group; the others were shared or are assummed by the

end users:

long range planning
Page 22

requirements analysis

hardware selection

software package selection

procurement negotiation

application system development

installation

training

operations

maintenance

post-installation review

It should be noted that these roles can take on different

meanings in the microcomputer environment.

The differences in the assignment of responsibilities among the

various roles observed in the nine companies appear to parallel those

occurring in Federal agencies. Users have performed requirements

analysis, acquired and installed their own systems, evaluated and

selected software, and even performed some of the maintenance. In the

mainframe environment these roles were the responsibility of the

systems group. Agencies have yet to determine what skills are

necessary to use the new technology, which of the roles users should

be trained to perform or how these responsibilities should be

delegated in the microcomputer environment.
Page 23

3.0 Microcomputer Technical Considerations

In addition to the management issues, our study found that

agencies had many questions and concerns related to the microcomputer

technology. The following sections present the technical

considerations that were addressed by the agencies.

Many agencies have produced guidance documents to assist the

agency users in the selection of micrcomputer systems. The documents

(Appendix C: Agency Documents) contain explanations as well as

criteria for choosing the hardware and software components of a

system. Where appropriate, information from these documents has been

extracted and referenced in the following discussions of technical

considerations

.

The organization for this section is based on the methodology for

microcomputer system selection used by the majority of the agencies

interviewed to select their initial systems. Although not a formal

process, the basic scheme consists of four phases: 1) determine the

application requirements, 2) identify the software packages that

support the applications, 3) select an operating system under which

the software packages will run, and 4) select the hardware that can

accommodate the software.

3.1 Application Requirements

In our discussions, it was assumed that the applications and the

uses of a microcomputer were already determined. In each case, a set

of functions to be computerized was identified. Although the set of

application requirements varied among applications, the agencies

identified several categories of features that were considered or

required for existing or future systems.

3.1.1 Communications

The ability to share information and communicate with other

computers was required by several applications. Questions about the

physical connection, communications software, and data compatibility

were raised. Several agencies are currently using variations of

public domain communications software, MODEM 7, and the RS232

interface standard. Very few agencies are using local area networks

(LAN), but LiANs are viewed as a potential communications medium for

the future. The examination of LAN features, architecture,

transmission media, installation requirements, and selection criteria

CROSE82] is being performed in several of the agencies in anticipation

of future LAN usage.

3.1.2 Resource Sharing

As resouces are shared, the integrity of the data and hardware is

threatened. Often the sharing of information or hardware is required

by the application. We were told of several applications which

required the user to download data from a centralized data base, or

access and exchange information from information utilities, software
Page 24

exchanges, and electronic bulletin boards. Hardware such as printers,

disks, and processors are also being shared due to the application

needs or economics.

While pursuing this discussion, the following questions were

raised:

* Who is responsible for the data?

* How is the integrity of the data maintained?

* Where should the 'valid' data reside?

* How are access priorities for shared hardware set?

Although no solutions were given, the agencies are cognizant of these

issues and are examining alternatives.

3.1.3 Security

If sensitive (e.g. personal, proprietary, or otherwise

confidential) information is handled by an application, that

information must be protected against unauthorized access or

disclosure. Such threats exist whenever the information is processed

or stored on all systems but especially on those that are shared in

any way. The degree of protection provided (and thereby its cost)

should be a function of the specific application, the data it handles,

and the environment in which it operates. Adequate protection of the

system can safeguard the computer and its data from theft, accidents,

errors, omissions, and intentional misuse (e.g., computer related

crime )

.

In general, the agencies did not appear to be cognizant of or

concerned with the security, privacy, or integrity of the

microcomputer system. Several agencies believed that the security of

single user microcomputers can be controlled by locking up the

computer and floppy disks when not in use. However, some individuals

expressed concern that multi-user systems did not typically provide an

adequate set of security features. For example, a shared peripheral,

such as a Winchester disk, offers the opportunity for users to

accidentally or intentionally corrupt system integrity and data.

Although some concern about security was voiced, the general

consensus was that the microcomputer industry will provide security

features as the needs demand. It was pointed out that security

features were becoming more important and were being designed into

application and system software, firmware, and hardware. The need for

TEMPEST (emanation security) approved systems was recongized by a few

agencies, but was not, at that time, a major concern.

3.1.4 Reliability and Availability

The microcomputer system should be accessible, usable, and

operate correctly. This concern was expressed by all the agencies.

The levels of required reliability and availability varied with the

agency and application. In general, microcomputers have proven to be

reliable and thus stringent reliability requirements have not been

set. To insure the availability of the system, several agencies buy
Page 25

spare microcomputers as substitutes for failed systems. All the

agencies make backup copies of software packages. These copies become

the working programs, and the original packages are locked away.

Hardware and software products are sometimes released before

being fully tested. The technical staffs at several of the agenices

test and correct these software packages before distribution to the

end-users. We observed that the early versions of the products often

need fixes.

3.2 Application Software

Once the application requirements are determined, software is

identified and acquired to perform the application. The following

discussions highlight several of the software considerations expressed

by the agencies.

3.2.1 Purchased or Custom Software

The choice of buying a software package or developing and writing

software confronts the agency users. Prewritten, mass-produced

software is readily available for most general and some specific

applications. All the agencies encourage the use of these

off-the-shelf software packages. Many of these packages can be

customized to various types of terminals or operating systems via

other software packages. Additional customization and modification of

the software packages is being performed by many of the agency

technical staffs. Packages are tailored to the users expertise,

applications, and/or environment. Examples range from presetting

terminal function keys, to modifing packages for specific

communications capabilities.

Custom written software is software programmed to the

application's specifications. For the majority of the applications

discussed, custom software was not cost/beneficial or a timely

solution. A limited amount of software programs is being written to

support specialized applications, such as shipyard functions. These

programs are distributed as off-the-shelf packages to the agency's

client base.

3.2.2 Programming Languages

Some applications cannot be implemented using existing software

packages. BASIC, C, COBOL, FORTRAN, and Pascal were the primary

programming languages we encountered. Every microcomputer had a

version of the BASIC language. The Microsoft BASIC was the most

popular. A few agencies discourage the use of BASIC for complex

system development and recommend languages such as Pascal or COBOL

instead. Pascal is becoming widely used and is gaining acceptance and

popularity.

Several cautions that emerged were:

* to consider which version of a language is available for the

target microcomputer system (operating system and hardware),
Page 26

* to consider the transferability of the language from one

microcomputer system to another,

* to consider compliance to any existing FTPS and/or ANSI language

standards (e.g. FIPS PUB 68, FIPS PUB 69, FIPS PUB 21-1 or ANSI

X3. 23-74 Level I) . 3.2.3 System Requirements

The microcomputer software should be able to run on the existing

or planned system configuration. The software packages require a

specific minimum hardware and software configuration. Unfortunately,

several Agencies learned this lesson after the purchase of the

software. For example: LOTUS 1-2-3, an integrated software package

currently requires the MSDOS 1.1 operating system, and two double

density, double sided disk drives. The package was purchased for a

system with MSDOS 1.0 and two dual density, single sided disk drives.

In our discussions, it was suggested that the user ask the

following questions before purchasing a software package:

* Will the software fit the computer? E.g., the program may

require 128K of memory but the target system has 64K.

* Do you have the appropriate hardware components and capacities?

E.g., many of the more recent packages require double density,

double sided disk drives.

* Do you have the appropriate version of the operating system or

other required software? E.g., many of the more recent packages

require newer versions of the operating system and/or other

software

.

* Is any prerequisite or additional software required? E.g., in

addition to the operating system, the packaged software may

depend on other software packages (e.g. mailers or spellers with

wordprocessors )

.

* Can the user access the full range of features offered? E.g.,

the function keys defined by the software (e.g. wordprocessor

)

may not be operable or defined correctly.

* Can you take advantage of the full range of capabilities offered

by the package? E.g., although VisiCalc can be loaded with a

minimum configured system, the work space, size, and response

time are severly limited.

Although many of these questions are similar, we found that the

phrasing of the question resulted in different answers.

3.2.4 Application Integration

Can the output of one software package be used by another

software package? This and related questions were raised by several

agencies. Application integration refers to the process of combining

individual application programs as building blocks which can be put
Page 27

together to accomplish more sophisticated, multifunction activities.

The agencies described application integration to be either the

sharing of files between/among different applications; or the use of

single packages which perform multiple functions, but which are

"closed" with respect to the ability to add additional functions; or

multitasking in which the user can easily switch from one task to

another or all of these. Typically, the use of these integrated

products will require a system to be upgraded to meet the current

baseline configuration of that system (e.g. most recent version of

the operating system or double density, double sided disks). Several

agencies expressed an interest in and anticipate using packages such

as MSA, LOTUS 1-2-3, LISA software, and VISI-ON.

3.2.5 Documentation and Training

Installation and user documentation for software packages is not

always available or sufficient. These manuals include information for

the user (or technical staff) on the installation and operation of the

software on the target computer. Agencies discovered that software

packages with adequate documentation were installed more quickly and

used more readily than those packages without documentation. To

augment existing documentation, several agencies have written their

own user guides (a listing can be found in Appendix C: Agency

Documents )

.

Manuals and on-line instruction are tools that enable the user to

learn to use the software packages. We observed several forms of

on-line instruction such as: interactive tutorials included with the

package, help facilities, and menu-driven packages. One agency

customizes all its software to include a menu capability. Several

agencies expressed their preference for packages that offer levels of

help geared to user needs. For example, agencies prefer a help

facility that can provide a different level of help to novices and

experienced users, or, a menu-driven package in which the menu can be

eliminated by the experienced user.

3.3 Operating Systems

A number of operating systems exist for microcomputer systems.

The agencies were faced with choosing an operating system that would

perform on the existing hardware (if any) or that would run the

selected software. Below are several of the considerations.

3.3.1 System Configuration

Not all operating systems can execute on all microcomputer

systems. The processor (word size and type), and multi-user vs

single-user operation were the two major factors involved in choosing

an operating system. All the agencies with single-user, 8-bit systems

have recommended the use of the defacto standard, CP/M, or a CP/M

compatible operating system. No one 16-bit operating system was

recommended by the agencies, but UNIX and UNIX-like, MS-DOS, CP/M-86,

and UCSD P-system all were mentioned as possible choices. All the

agencies discouraged the use of vendor specific operating systems,

(e.g., TRS-DOS, APPLE-DOS).
Page 28

3.3.2 Software

Is there a diverse and wide range of packaged software designed

to run under control of the selected operating system? Typically, the

more users of an operating system, the more software packages

available for that system (both commercially and in the public

domain). The quality of software, documentation and follow-up service

also improves as the customer base increases. These are the reasons

the agencies gave for choosing the CP/M operating system. We also

noticed a developing constituency (government and in the private

sector) for MS-DOS and Unix-like systems, and we expect the generation

of software for these systems to increase as well.

3.3.3 Transportability

A major concern of the agencies is the transportability of

software from machine to machine or vendor to vendor. Agencies want

the ability to develop an application on one system and be able to run

it, unmodified, on another system. All of the operating systems we

saw enabled the user to transport software between "compatible"

systems. But, due to its popularity and ease of transportability,

CP/M and CP/M-compatible operating systems were chosen by most

agencies for use on 8-bit microcomputers.

3.3.4 Utilities

The computing power and utility functions provided by the

operating system vary between systems. Although no one explicitly

mentioned the utilities, file and disk management capabilities were

alluded to. Of importance was the ability to manipulate the

information on the disk (e.g. list, copy, erase, etc.) and the

ability to recover from a corrupted disk.

3.4 Hardware

For every component of the microcomputer system, a variety of

hardware choices exists. The choices continue to multiply as the

technology continues to change. If the application requirements,

software packages, and operating system are already determined, the

hardware options are narrowed. Agencies have recognized the

difficulty and confusion facing the users in the selection of

appropriate hardware components. Agency guidelines and handbooks (see

Appendix C) were written to help the users with this selection task.

3.4.1 Basic System

A microcomputer system can be comprised of various hardware

components. We observed a broad range of systems, from the

sophisticated, complex system with several types of hardware

components, to the simple, minimally configured system. Although the

specific set of components differed between systems, all contained the

same basic set of components. The basic system consisted of: a

processor (8 or 16 bit), a minimum of 64K RAM, a terminal (preferably

with a 24x80 character display), storage (at least 1 floppy disk, or

hard disk access), and an RS232 port for l/O. Highly recommended
Page 29

features were: a second matching disk drive, a printer and/or plotter

for graphics.

3.4.2 Microprocessors

8-bit vs 16-bit vs 32-bit? The 8 bit microprocessor dominates

the current microcomputer environment, but this situation is changing

rapidly. Presently, the majority of agencies have standardized on

8-bit systems because until recently, the number of 16-bit systems and

available software was limited. But, many of these agencies are

exploring the 16-bit machines and their possibilities. Two agencies

have recently chosen 16-bit systems exclusively. The reasons for

these decisions were based on the now emerging maturity of the 16-bit

systems and the application requirements for multi-users and

multi-tasking. None of the interviewed agencies was actively pursuing

the 32-bit systems, but their arrival is anticipated.

In addition to the word size, the microprocessor chips vary in

capabilities. The performance, available software, speed,

compactness, and ability to enable graphics and/or sound capabilities

are several of the criteria evaluated by the agencies in chip

selection. A comprehensive survey of microprocessors and chip

families can be found in [TWAD82]. The Z80 microprocessor has become

a de-facto standard and the chip recommended by the majority of

agencies. We have also seen the 6502 (APPLE, ATARI, COMMODORE)

processor, and the 16 bit processors: 8088 (IBM), 8086 (NEC), Z8000

(ONYX) and 68000 (TRS-80 model 16, FORTUNE Systems).

Users are not always limited to one processor type. Many agency

users have emulated a second processor by plugging a special board

into the microcomputer. For example, many APPLE users have plugged

the SOFTCARD into the computer to emulate the Z80 processor and BABY

BLUE can be used to emulate the Z80 in the IBM-PC. Other users have

bought microcomputers with multiple processors integrated into the

unit, such as the Motorola 68000 and Zilog Z80A in the Radio Shack

Model 16.

3.4.3 Storage

The amount of storage on the microcomputer system can limit the

amount of information that can be accessed, processed, and saved. The

random access memory (RAM) and read only memory (ROM) comprise the

system storage and are available in varying capacities. All the

systems we saw had a minimum of 64K bytes of RAM. While the majority

of agencies recommended that systems contain at least one 8", soft

sectored, IBM 3470 compatible disk, we noticed an increasing number of

3+" and 5 1/4" disk drives. Almost all the systems had two floppy

disk drives. One agency did not use floppy disks, but used Winchester

hard disks, exclusively. Several other agencies plan to augment their

existing and future systems with the hard disk capability. Although

one agency used tape, it was for archival storage only.

3.4.4 Other Peripherals

The differences among printers or among plotters are significant.
Page 30

The quality, speed, throughput, character sets and sizes, paper width

and handling, maintenance, and computer interface were considerations

in the selection of a printer/plotter. All the agencies had hardcopy

output available on at least some of the microcomputer systems. The

application requirements, compatibility with the microcomputer, and

the printer/plotter cost were the typical considerations in

determining the choice. Various magazine articles and charts were

referenced as helpful sources of printer information [MIAS82, FEIG82].

To enable communications between the microcomputer and another

computer, a modem is often used. Although modems were not discussed

in detail, it was the primary medium for inter-computer

communications. The factors identified in modem selection were: the

requirements of the communications software and target computer, speed

(300, 1200 baud), physical connection (RS232, IEEE 488), duplex (full,

half), synchronization scheme (asynchronous, synchronous), and dialing

(manual, autodial).

3.4.5 Maintenance

The hardware should perform and continue to perform correctly

_ during use. Agencies have had very few problems with the

microcomputer systems, but failures have occurred. Three maintenance

methods were mentioned: in-house maintenance, repairs on a per call

basis, and maintenance contracts with a vendor. We encountered all

three of these methods. Generally, agencies with qualified

technicians preferred to do their own maintenance. A few agencies

suggested establishing maintenance contracts with the vendor from whom

the microcomputer system was purchased, and suggested that the cost of

such a contract should not exceed 2% of the retail cost of the system

per month (typically 10-15% per year). And, finally, some agencies

preferred to arrange for microcomputer system or component repairs on

a per call basis.
Page 31

4.0 SUMMARIES OF FEDERAL AGENCY EXPERIENCES

To determine - how Federal government agencies were using

microcomputers and how widespread that use, ICST staff interviewed

employees from several Federal agencies and one State agency. In each

case we tried to select a manager with some responsibilities for

developing policies for the acquisition and use of microcomputers.

We developed a questionnaire to be used during the interviews

which we hoped would elicit from the managers their experiences with

microcomputers, including the impact that microcomputers are having on

their work environment.

The first part of the questionnaire, part A, asked questions

about policy, management, and administration, as it related to

microcomputers. Part B inquired about the current microcomputer

environment and experiences; part C asked questions about human or

people considerations; and part D asked for references to other

agencies and individuals known to be working or involved with

microcomputers in their organizations. In some interviews we asked

the questions, in other interviews the questionnaire was given to the

individual to read and respond to verbally. In all cases, we recorded

the responses; at a later date, the completed questionnaires were

sent to the agency managers for review and correction. Six of the

completed questionnaires were reviewed and returned to NBS.

The following section descriptions represent a snapshot of the

level of awareness existing in the agencies at the time of the

interviews

.

In section 4.1 is the questionnaire used in the interviews.

In Section 4.2 are the individual summaries of agency experiences

as extracted from the interviews and the completed questionnaires.

Section 4.3 is a tabulation of all of the responses of the

agencies. The tabulation is a summary ^nd is not intended to convey

all of the information contained in the questionnaire.

Section 4.4 is a tabulation of the support functions currently

being provided by the agencies to their end users.
Page 32

4.1 SAMPLE QUESTIONNAIRE

Types of Questions to Perspective Interviewees (geared toward Federal

users - needs to be modified for other groups)

A. Policy, Management, and Administration

1. Does your agency distinguish among micros, minis, and large

general purpose computers? If so, how?

2. Who (person, position, organization) has overall responsibility

for micros?

3. What policies (implicit and explicit), regulations, directives are

operative with regard to micros?

4. Does the degree of control exercised over micros reflect a

considered approach or one that's just evolved?

5. Are micros treated differently than other comparably priced

resources (e.g., lab equipment)?

6. To what extent are the sequence and pace with which applications

are introduced, controlled by higher level management?

B. Current environment/ experience

1. What generic hardware and software are currently available and

supported by microcomputers?

2. What telecommunications facilities are used to interconnect the

micros and what type of interconnections are made?

3. What is the degree to which systems h/w and s/w are compatible/

transportable and can "talk" with one another?

4. To what degree is use of off-the-shelf vs. specially developed

systems and software encouraged?

5. What has been the method by which you have identified and

evaluated microcomputer h/w and s/w? What have been the specific

features that you have looked for in specific application

programs?

6. What application packages are being used including utilities and

DBMS's?

7. To what degree are development, procurement, support and

maintenance centralized?
Page 33

8. What is the adequacy of vendor provided maintenance and support?

9. What microcomputer operating system and languages are

used/preferred?

10. Are outside (videotex) information utilities accessed? Which

ones? Extent of Use?

11. To what degree are programs and files shared among different

users?

12. What problems have you encountered or do you foresee with regard

to limitation on multiple uses of proprietary s/w? Is your agency

attempting to deal with this contractually?

13. What levels of growth do you foresee over the next five years with

respect to numbers of users and types of users and numbers and

types of equipment for your organization?

C. People, Political, and Other Considerations

1. What provisions have you made with regard to staffing and training

to facilitate the introduction, acceptance, and use of micros?

2. What unique personnel problems do you foresee with the infusion of

microcomputers?

3. What unique political/organizational problems do you foresee with

the growing availability and use of micros?

4. Do you anticipate any major changes in the physical work

environment due to a major introduction of micros?

5. Who has been the most agressive in the introduction of micros

ADP or the user community?

6. How have the issues related to micros differed for ADP and the

user community?

D. Other Contacts/ References

1. Have any sources of inf ormation/expertise been

valuable? If yes, which ones?

particularly
Page 34

SUMMARY OF AGENCY INTERVIEW

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

USDA consists of many constituent agencies and staff offices.

Ninety percent of USDA employees are located in the field. Policies

for information management are formulated by the Office of Information

Resource Management (OIRM) , a departmental unit. In several

instances, policy is developed through a multi-agency task force. As

USDA is decentralized, responsibility for information management rests

with the individual agencies.

The OIRM provides a centralized office for acquiring information

and for introducing the agency staff to microcomputer technology and

information. The agency staff, in turn, make available this

information to their constituents.

Support from the OIRM consists of hardware and software

demonstrations. Efforts are underway to acquire large numbers of

microcomputers by the agencies and field installations. USDA is

working with GSA on a schedule C pilot project for microcomputer

procurement. This service is designed to save money and negotiations

of the same hardware and software. To make microcomputer information

available to agency heads within the Department, vendors are invited

to demonstrate their products. The interviewee suggested that if

standards were established, vendors could benchmark to the standards

and it would not be necessary for an agency to buy identical equipment

to have compatibility and transportability of software.

There is currently a large assortment of microcomputers in the

Department of Agriculture. Most are being used to perform word

processing. Microcomputers "talk" to the mainframe computers but not

yet to each other. The interviewee stated that LAN's, which would

allow the microcomputers to communicate, are being tested.

The OIRM stated that CP/M is currently the preferred operating

system for the systems that are being procured. USDA's applications

programs being supported by microcomputers include Green Thumb, a

market information system for farmers. Farmers also have access, via

their microcomputers, to packages developed at Land Grant Colleges and

made available as public domain software (the specific applications

were not identified). Other microcomputer supported applications

include the publishing of documents (a very large operation),

electronic mail (more than 3000 users), and the management of data

bases, as well as the usual applications of word processing and

financial analysis.

The OIRM participates with other Federal agency representatives

in the Special Interest Group on Microcomputer Applications and

Technology, SIGMAT, which exchanges information, performs some

research, and explores various areas related to the technology. In

conjunction with the USDA Graduate School, the Department of

Agriculture has developed an Information Technology Center.
The Center

conducts demonstrations, classes and seminars on

a variety of hardware and software.

offers self-instructional courses through computers

and video tape.

offers assistance in applying computer technology to

professional and administrative uses.

houses a technical library containing leading

periodicals and publications on computers.

provides a room for computer vendors to demonstrate

thei r equ i pment

.
Page 36

SUMMARY OF AGENCY INTERVIEW

DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY

The Department of Energy includes a number of field installations

in addition to its Headquarters, located in downtown Washington. The

interviewee is a staff member in the Office of Computer Services and

Telecommunication Management (CSTM) which operates the Headquarters

Administrative Computer Center located in Germantown, Maryland

Microcomputer applications are introduced and managed by higher

level management; very few microcomputers have been introduced by end

users. Microcomputers currently being used at the installation are

Gnat/ Superbrain, Apple, IBM PC's, Molecular Computer Systems, and

TRS-80 computers.

The regulations followed in the procurement of microcomputers are

the same as those for mainframes, until specific policies are

developed for microcomputer procurement. Support functions are

somewhat centralized within Headquarters. The maintenance is handled

by an on-site contractor and is primarily the replacement of a board

or device. A training facility allows for hands-on experimentation

with hardware and software; tutorials are available; and a telephone

hot-line makes available direct help to remotely located users. A

formal support center which would maintain a problem file for quicker

responses to familiar problems is under development.

The most frequently performed microcomputer applications are word

processing and spread sheet analysis.

The emphasis is on packaged software, as indicated by this and

most of the other interviewed agencies. Programming is not encouraged

unless it is to customize a package for a specific application. The

interviewee would like to see a broader range of packaged applications

so that customized software could be avoided. DOE is accessing

several videotex services via its microcomputers: a legal data base,

a legislative data base, and the NY Times Index. The interviewee

suggested that the Government should study the possibility of using

videotex and microcomputers as a possible vehicle for delivering some

of its products.
Page 37

SUMMARY OF AGENCY INTERVIEW

FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION

The interviewee is a staff member in the office of the Associate

Managing Director for Information Management, one of six bureau chiefs

under the Commissioner.

The Commission developed a plan more than two years ago to show

the FCC's computing needs for the 80s. The Plan outlined an approach

to a microcomputer network which would, among other functions, permit

the exchange of mail and the sharing of resources. The network is

being developed and some components of the system have been acquired.

Microcomputers are individually justified and centrally procured

multi-user systems. All have 16-bit processors and run the UNIX

operating system. The microcomputers will communicate via the

FCC-net, now under development.

At the time of the interview, FCC had 10 multi-user systems:

ONYX and ZYLOG microcomputers. Each had fixed disks and tape

archiving capabilities. Maintenance for one of the systems presented

problems because parts were not always available, but the other

systems have been quite reliable. Single user systems are not being

acquired and do not fit within the planned network. Management is

driving the acquisition of these systems and the applications planned

for them.

The software consists mostly of off-the-shelf packages which have

been customized. In general, software that is under consideration for

purchase, is evaluated by those who are going to use it. Some

software has been developed in-house, but resources are limited and do

not allow for much programming. Some of the applications being

supported by microcomputers include personnel action tracking,

automated purchasing, and management-by-objectives. The interviewee

stated that a number of the current microcomputer applications make

use of data base management systems which he sees as being a major

tool in the creation of applications for the network.

The FCC makes use of one of the videotex information services,

LEXIS, and accesses this data base by way of the microcomputer.

The ADP staff provides the support for the UNIX-based systems;

but no centralized support is plannned for users of single user

systems running under CP/M. Eight bit systems are discouraged and the

use of floppy disks is not recommended. The emphasis is on

microcomputers that will be shared by a number of users, a system that

is controlled by the higher levels of management, and applications

that are introduced by management for agency-wide benefits.
Page 38

SUMMARY OF AGENCY INTERVIEW

GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

An agency of the Department of Interior, the Geological Survey

has widely scattered field installations, and has found the use of

microcomputers an effective way to communicate with those

installations.

Geological Survey has made available microcomputers to its

scientists and engineers in field locations around the country. Its

central support group has been "selling" the microcomputers and

encouraging their use. Programs have been sent to remotely located

users via telecommunications facilities which allow the microcomputers

to download software from a mainframe.

The ADP staff has been most aggressive in its efforts to make

this tool available and to provide the required support for its use.

They have made volume buys of microcomputers, developed guidance

documents, and provided demonstrations of the microcomputer's

capabilities. Recommendations for hardware components and operating

systems provide a framework in which the users have a variety of

choices of components and peripherals. If recommendations are not

followed, the user could find that assistance is not available for the

system that was chosen. The plan is to provide support for the

systems that are staff recommended and for which the staff has

expertise

.

Geological Survey plans to canvas its microcomputer end users

world-wide to determine their future needs in an effort to give them

better and more timely service and support. The survey will also

provide a picture of the current microcomputer environment and a

relative count of the number of microcomputers in the agency.

Some of the first microcomputers bought in large quantities by

the Survey were Intertec Superbrain computers, with 8-bit processors,

64k RAM, floppy disks and CP/M operating system. Approximately 150

microcomputers were bought in the first batch and at least that many

were planned for a second acquisition. The Survey may have been one

of the first agencies to buy microcomputers in volume. As a result,

there is a high degree of compatibility and transportability of

software among systems, and these systems are able to "talk" to each

other

.

Among the applications being supported by microcomputers are word

processing, data base management, text editing, and some computations.

But, as in several of the other agencies, some programming is being

performed. Packages are recommended, but packages have sometimes

required customizing to satisfy the requirements.

The Survey is using a variety of communications software,

including RCP/M (remote CP/M) , and the public domain software package.

Modem 7, to allow microcomputers to talk to each other and to

mainframe computers. Their variation of Modem 7, GS-COM, has been

made available to other agencies as has their in-house developed
Page 39

Superbrain users manual.

An electronic bulletin related information is operated from the

Survey for the benefit of its users. However, other agencies can also

access the bulletin board and contribute to the information that is

collected and exchanged.
Page 40

SUMMARY OF AGENCY INTERVIEW

AIR FORCE DATA SYSTEMS DESIGN CENTER, Gunter Air Force Center

This interview was held with the Chief of the Air Force Small

Computer/office Automation Service Organization (AFSCOASO), a part of

the Air Force Data Systems Design Center (AFDSDC) at Gunter AFS, Al.

It is the center of expertise for small computer systems for the Air

Force. Each major Air command has its own technical service center

with responsibility for procurement and support of microcomputers.

AFSCOASO's goal is to maintain and support information, data, and

software for microcomputers. This service organization received its

authority in May, 1982, with overall responsibility for

microcomputers

.

The Air Force makes no distinction between microcomputers and

minicomputers, except in terms of cost, required physical environment,

and user processing time available. The acquisition procedures are

essentially the same as for other ADP systems; however guidance

documents developed by AFSCOASO pertain only to microcomputers. Those

guidance documents include: Microcomputer Guideline, Diskette

Handbook, OA Survey, and sample RFP's. The guidance documents

recommend that, to insure AFSCOASO support, the de facto industry

standards be used: CP/M operating system, SlOO bus, 8" floppy disks.

Additional support is provided to users through a tri-service

procurement agreement to purchase large numbers of microcomputers. No

centralized maintenance support is available, but major Air Commands

are advised to establish maintenance agreements with vendors from whom

the microcomputers are purchased. It is also sugested that several

extra microcomputers be purchased for replacement of microcomputers

being repaired.

The Air Force would like to arrange an AF-wide license for

multiple copy discounts of proprietary software, but recognizes that

there are some issues related to such an arrangement that must first

be addressed.

One of the aims of AFSCOASO is to promote software

transportability. The use of CP/M compatible software and 8", CP/M

formatted floppy disks has allowed software to be taken from micro to

micro. These applications range from electronic spreadsheet analysis

and data base management to specific applications of the Air Force.

Included in the hardware are Apple, Cromemco, and TRS-80 computers.

Telecommunications facilities are under development and a local area

network will cable-connect AFSCOASO microcomputers with various host

processors. Being explored are interface protocols and the

communications package. Modem 7.

An on-line information system, DIAL-A-LOG, developed by this

group, is available via the ARPANET. It provides microcomputer users

a software exchange, research index, user groups, news, etc. Users

and creators of programs and files which have wider applicability than

their individual use are encouraged to share these resources through

the DIAL-A-LOG system.
Page 41

SUMMARY OF AGENCY INTERVIEW

HOUSE INFORMATION SYSTEMS (HIS) of the Committee on House

Administration, U.S. -House of Representatives

The Information Resource Planning Office within the Office of the

Director, House Information Systems, is responsible for the management

and procurement of personal computers within House Information Systems

(HIS) .Currently under development is an overall plan for support of

personal computers for the House of Representatives. Within this

plan, two major support areas have been identified:

* general support which would include the establishment of

a personal computer information center. HIS staff would

provide information about personal computers, hands-on

demonstrations, develop "how to" instructions, and conduct

training classes on the use of personal computers and software.

* a second support area would be HIS staff doing extensive software

analysis and prototyping. Emphasis would be on electronic spread

sheet, data base management systems, 4th generation languages,

word processors, and graphics.

One service identified which members could benefit from, using

personal computer technology, is applying value-added capability when

using the extensive information currently maintained on the HIS

mainframe computers. An example would be the Members downloading

Federal grant or contract information linked to census data to his

personal computer. Then the Member would do his own analysis of his

Congressional district with the value-added software recommended by

HIS. If the Member did not have personal computer technology in his

office, he would be able to use personal computers in the information

center with assistance or coaching provided by HIS staff.

It is expected that Congressional staff will be exposed to

personal computers from many different manufacturers. HIS plans to

evaluated 10 to 15 microcomputers. Some evaluations have already been

made. HIS staff will then provide clearinghouse type information on

selection and use of personal computers. Standards will be

established for the evaluation of both hardware and software with

emphasis being placed on CP/M, MSDOS, and DEC-based operating systems.

The Congressional Budget Office and the Office of Technology

Assessment are now the most extensive users of personal computers.

The use of personal computers by the House as a whole has started but

is minimal at this time. However, with the continued growth of our

LAN, HIS is planning to include personal computer support as part of

our future service development plans.
Page 42

SUMMARY OF AGENCY INTERVIEW

DEPARTMENT OF LABOR

The Office of Policy and Review within the Department of Labor

has oversight responsibility for data processing. It has developed

guidelines to assist managers in the acquisition of microcomputers.

This policy encourages the use of multi-user systems and emphasizes

compatibility and convertibility of systems, programs and data.

Unlike the more scientific agencies, the use of microcomputer systems

in DOL is management driven and the applications are more

administrative in nature. They are driven by high level management

and changing legislation.

Implicitly, single user systems and floppy disks are not

encouraged. The concern is that management should decide and maintain

control of projects supported by computers. Labor does not want a

critical system residing with one person. At the same time, the

agency wants to encourage the use of the new technology.

When interviewed, the manager indicated that 30 multi-functional

microcomputer systems were being procured to handle both interative

and batch jobs and to connect to Labor's COM-10 network. Labor's

Directorate of Personnel Management is currently developing a

comprehensive program to train staff and management in the use of

their soon to be installed computer systems. The agency is also

planning to acquire a value added network to which their

microcomputers will eventually be connected.

Labor does not have a great many microcomputers at this time and

for this reason has not formed strong preferences for operating

systems. However, the agency is leaning towards UNIX-like systems

that support languages such as Pascal and Fortran. The microcomputer

would support applications such as data entry, remote job entry, and

word processing.

One of the concerns of the interviewee is the problem of

interfacing data base management systems from a non-host computer to a

host system. The interviewee expects applications to be developed

around agency data. Microcomputers would then download data from

mainframe computers to data bases residing on microcomputers to

develop those applications, prepared by the Labor Department for its

end users.
Page 43

SUMMARY OF AGENCY INTERVIEW

NAVDAC - Washington, D.C., and NARDAC - Norfolk, Va.

NAVDAC is responsible for the support of non-tactical ADP

resources for the Navy. There are seven regional commands, NARDACs,

under NAVDAC control. NARDAC-Norfoik has been charged with providing

a centralized group to evaluate and support microcomputers within the

Navy. The Micro/Mini Evaluation Team was established to support this

function.

A packet of documents on microcomputers, evaluations, and

recommendations has been written and is being distributed by

NARDAC-Norfoik. The document provides much needed information and

shows current NAVDAC plans for microcomputer support. As with other

agencies that have established guidelines for the selection of

microcomputer systems, not all available systems can be supported with

the limited staff and current capabilities. For users who plan to

look to central sources for microcomputer assistance, there needs to

be some guidance as to what support can and will be provided. These

documents are intended to provide that guidance but are not intended

to establish policy.

NAVDAC has established a minimum requirement specification which

includes a microprocessor that executes the 8080 CPU instruction set,

64k bytes of RAM, two 8 inch soft-sectored (floppy) disk drives, 24

line X 80 character display terminal, and the CP/M operating system.

These are only recommendations to assist users who are planning to

acquire microcomputer systems. But recognizing that the Navy has as a

primary concern the portability of software and programs, the decision

not to follow the recommendations should be carefully considered.

The Evaluation Team has identified and evaluated hardware and

software through hands-on testing of manufacturer's products.

Documentation and user manuals are compared with the actual operation

of the computer systems and human factors (i.e., ease of use, ease of

learning, ergonomic features) are also evaluated.

Procurement of microcomputers, applications development, and

computer maintenance are not functions supported by the Evaluation

Team. The ADP group within each NARDAC is responsible for these

activities. Here, as in other agencies, it is recommended that a

maintenance agreement be purchased along with the microcomputers. (A

tri-service procurement contract was negotiated some time ago and

hundreds of microcomputers have been acquired under this agreement).

A variety of applications is supported by microcomputers in the

various commands including: correspondence control; fuel, water, and

ship requirements predictors; and forecasting based on actual

requirements.

Proprietary software is being handled according to the purchase

agreements. When multiple microcomputers are acquired, multiple

copies of the software package are acquired. There is under way an

attempt to obtain software license agreements for wider applicability
Page 44

and multiple computers. The logistics of handling a large number of

copies of propietary software packagesand their licences could present

a problem of unmanageable proportions. The Evaluation Team suggested

that new arrangements would be considered to facilitate the tracking

of multiple copies of hardware and software for this new environment.

NAVDAC periodically sponsors a conference on microcomputers for

Naval personnel. In addition, the command at Norfolk is able to

demonstrate microcomputer equipment and software; provides a hands-on

capability for a small number of systems; has available a telephone

hot-line for quick responses to user questions; and maintains a

microcomputer bulletin board. Microcomputer workshops are also held

to facilitate their introduction and use.
Page 45

SUMMARY OF AGENCY INTERVIEW

NATIONAL OCEANIC and ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION (NOAA)

Department of Commerce

NOAA has a large constituency of approximately 14000 individuals.

A sizeable number of the scientists and engineers in this group have

acquired microcomputers, many of them without the assistance or

knowledge of the ADP staff.

There is a support group which has been assisting its

microcomputer users in a very basic way: defining requirements,

reviewing purchase order requests, and providing guidance. It has

developed guidance documents to assist its end users in the selection

of applications packages and microcomputers (they are not procured

centrally), and provides assistance in customizing software that

doesn't quite meet the user's requirements. The support group also

sponsors an annual 2-day symposium on microcomputers and ADP systems.

The increasing demand for support has led to the planned

establishment of an information resource center to better use its

staff resources and to better serve the end users.

Because the microcomputers were, in many cases, individually

acquired, there are many different makes and models and no clear

indication of the total number within the agency, nor of the specific

applications for which they are being used. To get a picture of the

current environment, the agency surveyed its constituents and

developed a data base of hardware and software now being used and of

the needs of the users. The survey determined that many of the

scientists have unique requirements, that the applications are

frequently not transportable and do not need to be. Some of those

applications are: ship documentation; solar, earthquake, and

permafrost studies; as well as the more common applications of

editing, data entry, and electronic spreadsheet analysis.

There are some communications between the mainframe and

microcomputers. CP/Net is available and compatible with the

recommended CP/M compatible operating system. Microcomputers are

recommended by generic specifications, which provide the user some

choice in the selection of system components.

Though the majority of the identified systems have 8-bit

processors, the agency , in its guidance documents, does look to the

future with specifications for 16-bit systems, and suggests that

computers should communicate using the IBM BSC and the 3780 protocol.
Page 46

SUMMARY OF AGENCY INTERVIEW

STATE OF NEW YOKK

The Office of General Services of the State of New York was the

only non-Federal agency interviewed. It is a marketing and research

office within the Office of General Services concerned with the ADP

equipment needs for all state agencies and universities in the state

and responsible for all matters pertaining to microcomputers.

The Office of General Services procures all microcomputers for

the state and leases them to the state agencies and universities; it

also acquires software packages ,( i . e . , word processors, spread sheets,

and data base management systems), for sale only. The agency or

university department determines the applications to be supported,

authorizes the acquisition, and sets the pace for the entry of the

systems. Other application specific software is obtained by the end

user

.

Multi-vendor, volume quantity contracts are used by the OGS to

acquire hardware and some basic software packages. Through the OGS,

software support is provided to the individual who purchases the

software package. The Office uses this mechanism to meet the

requirements of the software license.

At the time of the interview, the OGS was not aware of

microcomputers being connected to other systems. For that reason, not

much had been done about the marketing of communications facilities or

software

.

Systems being acquired by OGS consisted of 8-bit processors

usually running under the CP/M or MP/M operating system and included

maintenance as part of the contract. Systems being acquired by OGS

support education-oriented applications, single user and multi-user

business oriented systems. The business systems must use CP/M or

multi-user CP/M compatible operating s^^stems. All systems must

include a one-year, on site maintenance contract.

To facilitate the introduction and use of microcomputers, the

Marketing and Research Office (MRO) stages business shows at which

vendors are invited to show and demonstrate their products. Agency

and university staff are invited to come and participate. The MRO has

a facility where it demonstrates and allows end users to operate the

in-house microcomputers and related software; its staff is available

to answer questions and assist users with the specifications for a

system.
Page 47

SUMMARY OF AGENCY INTERVIEW

WALTER REED ARMY INSTITUTE OF RESEARCH (WRAIR)

The Director of the Division of Biometrics (DOB) of the Walter

Reed Army Institute of Research was interviewed. DOB is concerned

with establishing and managing the policy and procedures for ADP

acquisition and use. In its recently completed five-year plans, DOB

has included the use of microcomputers.

The procedures followed in the acquisition of microcomputers are

the same ones followed in the procurement of other ADP systems.

Though the level of justification and review required for

microcomputers is not quite as extensive as for mainframe systems,

WRAIR must obtain approval from higher level headquarters.

The Advanced Systems Working Group (ASWG) within WRAIR is

developing policy, guidance documents, and documentation to encourage

and assist end users and potential users in the acquisition and use of

the technology. Microcomputer game playing is allowed during off-duty

hours to encourage staff to familiarize themselves with the systems.

All microcomputers are procured through this office (DOB), with

maintenance contracts coordinated through the command at Fort

Dietrick. Although some maintenance contracts exist, many

microcomputers are not covered. As a result, some microcomputer

repairs are performed in-house. WRAIR recommends that maintenance

contracts be negotiated at the time of purchase of the microcomputer.

DOB would like to see more microcomputers installed, but due to its

limited staff, cannot cope with a faster paced implementation

schedule. Currently, the value of hardware installed is approximately

$150,000 and includes Apples, TRS-80s, as well as a half dozen other

brands, and plotters and printers. Microcomputers communicate with a

VAX minicomputer, use it as a file server, and through it, "talk" with

other microcomputers. Telecommunications software being used is the

ACCESS III terminal program for Apple computers and LCOMM for TRS-80s.

Applications range from record keeping and verification

procedures to medical research applications to determine

stimulus-response time for the neurologically impaired. Applications

software are often developed in-house to meet specialized

requirements. Routine administrative applications packages are

purchased off-the-shelf as available, i.e., mail list handlers and

graphics

.

Microcomputer training courses are provided periodically, and are

also incorporated into the physician training programs to make

physicians aware of the tool and to give some sense of how they can be

used in research. Some end users have been as aggressive as DOB, and

have asked for microcomputers after having observed their use and

recognizing their potential to assist the medical research scientist.

The Director of DOB voiced some of his concerns about the

microcomputer technology and its impact in related areas:
Page 48

* qualified and experienced personnel - how do you hire and

keep them in a competitive environment where the military

pay scale and career paths limit potential advancement?

* mistakes - with the popularity and ease of justification

of microcomputers, the potential for making costly

mistakes is great; big mistakes adversely affect the

future use of microcomputers

* maintenance - a potentially big and costly problem

At this time, the extent of microcomputer use and the pace of its

introduction into various programs are such that the concerns which

were mentioned have not become major problems.
Page 49

SUMMARY OF AGENCY INTERVIEW

SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION

The Smithsonian Institution engages in scientific research,

publication, museum exhibition, and the care of collections.

The individual interviewed at the Smithsonian, is a member of the

Office of Information Resource Management (OIRM) staff, who provides

assistance or support to the scientists who desire to use

microcomputers or are already using microcomputers. Assistance is

frequently provided for requirement specifications for hardware and

the selection of software.

Microcomputers are procured by the individual scientists at the

Smithsonian with grant funds for research projects which could benefit

from the use of automated procedures. The scientists negotiate

directly with the vendor for the system of his or her choice. The

interviewee reviews and recommends various software packages, and

assists users in communicating with the mainframe computers and in

transferring files between mainframe and microcomputers. Formal

training classes are obtained from an outside training concern.

Files are transferred to and from the mainframe via

telecommunications facilities, but between microcomputers, floppy

disks are exchanged when it is possible to do so. A local area

network is slowly being implemented along the lines of the NBS local

area network.

Microcomputers are supporting inventory applications (the

inventories are stored on the mainframe's mass storage device),

bibliographies, mcinuscript preparation, text editing and financial

spread sheet analysis.

End users are encouraged to obtain maintenance agreements at the

time the microcomputer is purchased, but some are maintained by the

scientists, themselves, at least to the board level.
Page 50

SUMMARY TABULATION OF AGENCY QUESTIONNAIRES

The agency responses to the questionnaire are sum marized below. They have

been abbreviated and should not be taken as absolute, qualified responses.

K E Y to agencies:

A ....Air Force System Design Center

B ....Department of Agriculture

C ....Department of Energy

D ....Department of Labor

E ....Federal Communications Commission

F ....House of Representatives

G ....N AVDAC/N AR DAC

H ....NCAA

I ....Smithsonian Institution

J ....State of New York

K ....USGS

L ....Walter Reed Army Institute of Research

K E Y to responses:

Y ....Yes

N ....No

E ....Evolving

P ....Planned

D ....Under development

0 ....Neither

C ....Considered

- ....Question not asked

or answer not known

QUESTION

AGENCY

ABCDEFGHI JKL

Micros distinguished

from other computers?

NYNNNNNNYYYN

Written policies,

guidelines, etc.?

Y Y YNEYYYYYP

Degree of control

reflect a considered

approach?

CCEO COEECCCE

Sequence and pace

controlled by upper

level management?

Y Y N Y Y N N N Y N
Page 51

AGENCY

QUESTION A BCDEFGHIJKL

Volume purchases

considered/underway?

YYNN - NY - NYYN

Are telecom munication

facilities used to

interconnect micros?

YYYNDDNYYNYY

Is software/data

transportable?

Y-ENYNYNY-YY

Is software primarily

off-the-shelfpackages?

YYYYYYYYYYYY

Is hardware and/or

software evaluated?

YYY - YYYYYYYY

Centralizedprocurement?

maintenance?

support?

NNYNYCNNNYYN NNYNYYN - NYYY

YYYNYYYYNYYY

Is user training

provided?

YYYNYPYYNYYY

Are conferences, etc.

conducted?

YYNNYCYYNYYN

Is technical assistance

available?

YYYNYYYYYYYY

Is an electronic

information exchange

available (BBS)?

YYNNNNYNNNYN

Are major changes to

the work environment

anticipated?

NNNYNN - N - NYY

Have/are the users more

agressive than the ADR

com m unity?

NYYNNY - YYNYY
Page 52

TABULATION OF PROVIDED SUPPORT

The Agencies that v/ere interviewed provide various types and levels

of support to their end users. The chart below is intended to show the

support functions and the levels of support provided by the agencies.

LEVELS OF SUPPORT

SUPPORT FUNCTIONS

Not

known

Little or

no support

being

developed

full support

provided

Central Support staff 1 2 2 7

Demonstration Center 1 5 2 4

Training 1 2 2 7

Manuals/documents 1 2 2 7

Conference/workshop 1 6 5

Information exchange

(BBS, user groups,

newsletters, etc.)

3 3 2 4

Software customization 2 2 1 7

* The numbers indicate how many agencies provide the support function

and the level of support provided.
Page 53

5. CONCLUSIONS

As was previously stated, the microcomputer and its related areas

are changing rapidly. It must be recognized that the following

observations and conclusions represent a snapshot (as does the entire

document) of this moving target. We base our conclusions on the

information gathered from the interviews, informal discussions, and

information gathered from various sources (agency policies,

periodicals, information services, vendors, etc.).

5.1 Observations

The excitement generated by the microcomputer and its use is

affecting everyone. The set of potential and current users is not

limited to ADP or scientific communities, but encompasses all employee

disciplines within an organization. Thousands of microcomputers are

already in the work environment and this number continues to grow.

The pace of the microcomputer technology and the numbers of

options and possibilities has created much confusion. The public is

looking for general guidance in selecting microcomputer systems as

well as help with their installation and operation. Organizations are

recognizing these needs and are developing structures to provide

information, evaluations, and support. An effective approach is to

offer centralized support on an incentive basis. That is, support

functions are available for a limited set of hardware and software

products, and users are encouraged to use these recommended products

if support is desired. This incentive-based microcomputer support is

the approach being taken in most of the agencies that were

interviewed.

The relationship between the microcomputer and the mainframe is

not being addressed. The microcomputer has not been viewed in terms

of the organizations' total information resources, but rather as an

individual tool to enable the user to more efficiently and effectively

do his/her job.

In general, the methodology for selecting a microcomputer system

differed from that of selecting a mini or mainframe computer.

Although not necessarily a formal procedure, the selection process for

a microcomputer consisted of four major steps. First, the application

requirements must be determined. Software packages that support the

application should be identified, examined, and if possible tested.

After the selection of an appropriate set of packages, an operating

system that can operate the packages must be chosen. Finally, the

hardware necessary to run the operating system and software

application packages is selected. A strong consideration in tha final

selection is the evaluation of the microcomputer marketplace and

future trends.

There are numerous variations of a microcomputer system. But the

current 'basic' microcomputer system is a single user, stand-alone

system that uses an 8-bit processor with 64K RAM, and two floppy

disks. The major applications of the system are word processing,
Page 54

spread sheet analysis, and data base management. The software is

predominately single function, off-the-shelf packages.

New systems are evolving that incorporate more powerful hardware

and software. This emerging system is becomming the new 'basic'

system and consists of a 16-bit processor with a minimum of 256K RAM,

a hard disk or other large capacity storage, and capable of supporting

multi-users, multitasking, and peripheral sharing. These systems will

use integrated software packages to perform the same applications as

their predecessors in addition to graphics and a local area networking

capability.

5.2 Trends

The variety, power, and sophistication of the hardware and

software continue to increase. The non-portable office system is

becoming supplemented by the portable microcomputer system. The

traditional 8-bit processor is being replaced by both multi-processor

and 16-bit processor systems. Single sided, single density floppy

disks are being replaced by the double sided and double density floppy

disks, 'and the hard disk is being included in the storage scheme.

Software for the microcomputer systems will continue to be

predominately off-the-shelf packages. The newer software packages

will be powerful programs that enable the interaction of applications

(e.g. integrated software). To support these packages, more powerful

and faster hardware will also be required (e.g. double sided, double

density floppy disks).

The need to provide, disseminate, and share information continues

to grow. The need will be met by the development and expansion of

services such as conferences/ symposiums , information clearinghouses,

electronic information exchanges (i.e., electronic bulletin boards,

electronic mail), and user groups. Effective end-user training

facilities are being developed. Training will become readily

available and take the form of manuals, tutorial primers, and

documentation; video discs; class instruction; or interactive,

computer-assisted instructions separate from or integrated with the

software programs.

There is an increasing emphasis on applications and technologies

that address resource and data sharing. Storage and output devices

(disks, printers, plotters) will be shared between systems and users.

Local area networks or other interface software will connect

microcomputers to each other and/or mainframe computers. The

microcomputer system will become integrated into the total information

management scheme

.

5.3 Examples of Agency Microcomputer Activities

The lessons learned by and from the interviewed organizations

have been beneficial and encouraging. Although mistakes were made,

the consequences were viewed as a learning experience. This section

will cite several of the operational activities noted in our

interviews with the agencies. The set of activities and cited

organizations is not exhaustive and is not meant to be. The omission
Page 55

of an organization is not an indication of that organization's lack of

activity or progress.

Aquisition:

New York State: The acquisition of all microcomputers,

peripheral equipment, and software is centralized in the Office

of General Services. Microcomputer systems are leased to the

requesting agencies.

USDA: Microcomputer vendors are invited to discuss and

demonstrate their equipment.

USDA, USGS: Arrangements with vendors have been made to enable

the purchase of microcomputer hardware and software at volume

discounts

Guidance Documents:

AF Design Center, NARDAC, NOAA: Guidelines were written to

assist the user in selecting a microcomputer system. The

published guidelines offer hardware and software considerations,

criteria, and explanations. The documents are dynamic and will

be updated as circumstances demand.

Support Structures:

AF Design Center, NARDAC, USGS: A centralized support

organization provides hardware and software evaluations,

guidance, training, user-guides, and technical assistance.

FCC: After the technical staff identifies a set of potential

software packages, several of the future end-users evaluate the

packages and make recommendations. Based on these

recommendations, the technical staff makes the final selections.

Information Exchange:

AF Design Center: A menu-driven, on-line system was developed to

promote the exchange of information between Air Force small

computers. The system, Dial-A-Log, provides five basic

functions: a bulletin board subsystem, user group subsystem,

software exchange catalog, research index, and a conversational

mode.

USGS: A computer-based bulletin board system (RCP/M) provides

the capability to exchange and distribute software and

information.
Page 56

6 . ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The authors acknowledge the professional expertise and assistance

provided by John Barkley and John Junod of NBS, and Dean Halstead and

Carol Keferley of FEDSIM in the formulation and preparation of this

report

.

Special thanks are extended to the representatives of the

following Agencies for their contributions and participation in

providing information for this report.

Department of Agriculture

Department of Commerce (NOAA)

Department of Defense

Air Force System Design Center

Navy Data Automation Command

Navy Regional Data Automation Command

Walter Reed Army Institute of Research

Department of Energy

Department of Labor

Department of Interior (USGS)

Federal Communications Commission

General Services Administration

House of Representatives, House Information Systems

Smithsonian Institutions

State of New York
Page 57

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Page A-1

APPENDIX A

AGENCY CONTACTS

The following individuals (and their staffs) have graciously shared

their time, insights, and opinions with respect to the potential and

challenges presented by the microcomputer technology.

Francis Balint

Office of Information and Management Services

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (DOC)

(301)443-8801

Thomas Byrne

Office of Policy and Review

Department of Labor

(202)523-9171

John Coffman

Administrative Computer Center

Department of Energy

(301)353-4623

Reginald Creighton

Office of Computer Services

Smithsonian Institution

(202)357-1596

Major Peter Donohue

Air Force Small Computer/Office

Air Force System Design Center

(205)279-3282

Automation Service Organization

LTC Rodney Edge

Division of Biometrics

Walter Reed Army Institute of Research

U.S. Army Medical Research and Development Command

(202)576-2212
AGENCY CONTACTS Page A2

Frank Giannetti

Office of General Services, Marketing and Research Division

State of New York

(518)474-1915

Mike Gilbride

Office of Associate Managing Director for Information Management

Federal Communications Commission

(202)653-5720

Robert Green

Navy Data Automation Command

(202)433-4996

William Leary

Information Resources Management Systems

Office of the Assistant Secretery of Defense, Comptroller

Department of Defense

(202)695-3147

Rick McDonald

Computer Center Division, ADP Information Management Section

U.S. Geological Survey (DOI)

(703)860-7123

Roger Myers

Office of Information Resource Management

Department of Agriculture

(202)447-4437

John Sever in

Micro/Mini Evaluation Team

Navy Regional Data Automation Command - Norfolk, Va.

(804)444-8486
Page B-1

APPENDIX B

INFORMATION SOURCES

There is an abundant amount of microcomputer information and activity

being offered by professional organizations, universities, user

groups, publishers, vendors, and computer stores. This appendix

presents references to these organizations and their products. The

intent is to provide pointers to existing and/or potential sources of

microcomputer information and activity. No claim to exhaustiveness is

made. The services and offerings listed in this appendix are available

throughout the country. References to national or corporate sources

are given whenever possible. Particular emphasis on the Washington

D.C. area is made because of the concentration of Federal activities

in this area.

Pointers to information are provided for the following areas:

Electronic Based Bulletin Boards (BBS)

Conferences, seminars, workshops, and/or classes

Consolidated references

Microcomputer magazines and periodicals

Telecomputing services

User groups and special interest groups (SIG)

Microcomputer Systems
INFORMATION SOURCES Page B-2

Electronic Bulletin Boards (BBS)

Electronic bulletin board systems (BBS) offer the user the opportunity

to exchange information and ideas with other users. Typically, a BBS

will focus on a specific subject area or microcomputer system.

Due to the large number of BBSs and the volatile nature of phone

numbers, only a few local BBSs are listed below. These BBSs can

provide complete (and updated) lists of other local and long distance

BBSs. This is NOT a complete list.

ICST Microcomputer Electronic Information Exchange

Gaithersburg, Md.

(301) 948-5718

Computer Performance Evaluation Users Group (CPEUG)

Sponsored and operated by ICST; Gaithersburg, Md.

(301) 948-5717

Hollywood RCP/M RBBS

(213) 653-6398

PSBBS; Washington, DC.

(202) 337-4694

Rickey Moose; Kensington, Md.

(301) 871-5370

Switch Board; Alexandria, Va.

(703) 765-2161

USGS R/CPM; Reston Va.

(703)471-1536

Wash Networks; Vienna, Va.

(703) 560-7803

NOTE

The ICST Microcomputer Electronic Information Exchange became

operational on May 1, 1983. Access Instructions for this BBS

system can be found in Appendix D.
[FORMATION SOURCES Page B-3

Conferences, Seminars, Workshops, and Classes

The following organizations sponsor conferences, seminars, workshops

and/or classes on microcomputer related topics.

AFIPS (NCC sponsor)

1815 N. Lynn Street

Arlington, Va. 22209

(703)558-3612

Association for Computing Machinery (ACM)

Washington D.C. Chapter

PO Box 6228

Washington, D.C. 20015

(202)296-42211

Continuing Engineering Education

The 'George Washington University

School of Engineering and Applied Science

Washington, D.C, 20052

(202)676-6106

(800)424-9773

Federal ADP Users Group (FADPUG)

Special Interest Group, Microcomputer Applications and Technology

(SIGMAT)

USDA Graduate School

Washington D.C. 20024

(202)447-3247

Federal Education Programs (Federal Computer Conference sponsor)

PO Box 368

Wayland. Ma.

(617)358-5181

IEEE Computer Society

PO Box 639

Silver Spring, Md. 20901

(301)589-3386

Interface Group (Federal DP Expo sponsor)

160 Speen Street

PO Box 927

Framinaham, Ma. 01701

(617)879-4502

(800)225-4620

Institute for Computer Sciences and Technology

Systems and Software Division

National Bureau of Standards

Washington D.C. 20234

(301) 921-3485
INFORMATION SOURCES Page B-4

National Trade Productions, Inc. (Federal Office Systems Expo sponsor)

9418 Annapolis Road, Suite 206

Lanham, Md. 20706

Public Management Institute

George Mason University

Fairfax, Va.

Transfer Institute

741 10th Street

Santa Monica, Ca. 90402

(213)394-8305

U.S. Professional Development Institute

12611 Davan Drive

Silver Spring, Md. 20904

(301)445-4405

In addition to the sources above, the following generic organizations

may offer classes on microcomputer topics.

Computer Vendors and Stores

Many computer vendors and stores conduct classes on the hardware and

software products they sell. Possible sources of computer vendors

and/or stores are the Yellow Pages phone book (under Computers'),

the Datapro Directories, and the Auerbach Directories.

Educational Television

Microcomputer related programs and instruction may be offered by

local television stations.

Graduate School of the USDA

The Graduate School offers day, evening, and Saturday classes. For

information call (202)447-4419

End-user Interactive Training

Software vendors are beginning to write and include training packages

for microcomputer systems and software. The packages usually consist

of on-line computer-based training with diskettes and manuals. Three

such vendors are American Training International, Open Systems, and

Taurus Software Corp. Contact the local computer store for

information on training package availability and vendors.

University and Adult Education Programs

Classes are available at universities, community colleges, and

college, high school, and community adult education programs. The

school registrar should be contacted for information on school

offerings and schedules.
'ORMATION SOURCES

Telecomputing Services

Page B-5

Telecomputing networks give the user access (for a fee) to thousands

of programs and data bases, as well as the ability to communicate

electronically with other users. The major telecomputing services

(subscription and user fees are imposed) are:

Dialog

3460 Millview Ave.

Palo Alto, Ca. 94304

(800)227-1960

Dialog is a bibliographic retrieval service with more than 170

available databases. Of particular interest are the International

Software index. Magazine index, and Microcomputer index.

Dow Jones News/Retrieval

PO Box 300

Princeton, N.J. 08540

(800)222-0081

The News/Retrieval services include 20 data bases consisting of

business and economic news, stock quotes, financial and investment

services and general news and information services.

Newsnet

945 Haverford Road

Bryn Mawr, Pa. 19010

(800)345-1301

The Newsnet data base is a collection of newsletters from independent

publishers. The newsletters cover information on telecommunications,

electronics and computers, fiber optics, and satellite news.

New York Times Information Service

1719 A, Rte 10

Parsippany, N.J. 07054

The CompuServe Information Service

5000 Arlington Center Blvd.

Columbus, Oh. 43220

(800)848-4458

CompuServe offers four categories of service which includes the

ability to download software, obtain business and financial

information, and query a variety of data bases.

The Source (a Reader's Digest subsidiary)

1616 Anderson Rd.

McLean, Va. 22102

(703)821-6660

The Source currently offers a diverse group of services and data

bases. An electronic mail feature is also available.
INFORMATION SOURCES Page B-6

Microcomputer Users Groups and Special Interest Groups

USER GROUPS

Microcomputer users groups exist for all types of microcomputer

systems. Often there is more than one group per system. Below are just

a few of the users groups in the Washington D.C. area.

APPLE;

Name;

Name;

Novapple

for information call: Dr. Theron Fuller

(703)370-5563 eves.

Washington Apple Pi

for information call: (301)621-2719

ATARI;

Name;

Name;

Name;

CP/M:

Name;

The Downtown Washington Atari Users Group

for information call: Frank Hoband

(202)357-7829

Montgomery County Atari Computer Users Group

for information write: Jay Pollack

PO Box 961

Rockvill, Md. 20851

Novatari Group

for information call: Paul Chapin

(703)476-5950 eves.

Washington Metropolitan CP/M Users Group

for information call: Charlie Pilzer

(301)654-3815

Toby Riley

(301)986-1234

COMMODORE

:

Name: CAPE-Capital Area PET Enthusiasts

for information write: Bob Karpen

2054 Eakins Court

Reston, Va. 22091

HEWLETT-PACKARD:

Name: HP Desk-Top Users Group

for information write: Washington Club,

Bruce Baxter , IRS-D:R:R:M

1111 Constitution Ave.

Washington D.C. 20224

IBM-PC

:

Name: Capital PC Users Group Inc.

for information call: Mike Todd

(202)561-5187
SIFORMATION SOURCES

OSBORNE:

Name: Washington Area Osborne Users Group

for information write: Michael Canyes

3117 Lancer Drive

Hyatsville, Md. 20782

Page B-7

TRS:

Name: The Northern Virginia

Users Group)

for information write

TCUG (Tandy Computers

; Paul Ledford

Northern Virginia TCUG

PO Box 2826

Fairfax, Va. 22031

(301)899-2406

UNIX:

Name: Unix Users Group

for information write: Uni-ops

PO Box 5182

Walnut Creek,

(415)933-8564

Ca. 94896

(this is an umbrella organization for Unix Users Groups)

ZENITH-HEATH:

Name: CHUG (Capital Heath Users Group)

for information write: CHUG

PO Box 2653

Fairfax, Va. 22031

SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS

Federal ADP Users Group (FADPUG)

Special Interest Group on Microcomputer Applications and

Technology (SIGMAT)

An organization of Federal employees involved with and interested

in microcomputers.

for information call: Susan Campbell

(202)447-3247
INFORMATION SOURCES Page B-8

Consolidated References

Consolidated or 'looseleaf' references are comprehensive sources of a

wide range of information on ADP equipment, software, services and

companies. Below are several of these references:

Auerbach Computer Technology Reports

Auerbach Publishers Inc.

6560 N. Park Drive

Pennsauken, N.J. 08109

(609)662-2070

Data Decisions Inc., Computer Systems

Ziff-Davis Publishing Co.

20 Brace Road

Cherry Hill, N.J. 08034

(609)429-7100

Datapro Directories

Datapro Research Corp.

1805 Underwood Blvd.

Delran, N.J. 08075

• (609)764-0100

(301)589-6040 (Washington DC office)

Data Sources

Ziff Davis Publishing Co.

PO Box 5845

Cherry Hill, N.J. 08034

(609)795-7012

ICP Software Directory

International Computer Programs

9000 Keystone Crossing

PO Box 40946

Indianapolis, Ind. 46240

(317)844-7461

FADPUG SIGMAT: Microcomputer Source Book

John Bel she

TUIMY Corps of Engineers

Room 7113 Pulaski Building

Washington, D.C. 20314

(202)272-0131

Software Catalog

Elsevier Science Publishing Co., Inc.

52 Vanderbilt Ave.

New York, N.Y. 10017
IFORMATION SOURCES Page B-9

Magazines and Periodicals

The magazines, journals, and newspapers listed below are considered

primary sources for articles on microcomputers. They represent only a

sample of the available sources of published microcomputer

information. Microcomputer related articles also appear in the daily

newspapers, and the popular and news magazines, but will not be listed

here

.

An indication as to the magazine type or microcomputer emphasis is

given wherever applicable. If no description is given, the magazine

publishes articles on all aspects of microcomputer

software

.

hardware and

Byte

PO Box 590

Martinsville, N.J. 08836

Compute

(6502-based systems)

PO Box 5406

Greensboro, N.C. 27403

Computer World

(Newsweeklyl

375 Cochituate Rd. Rte. 30

Framingham, Ma. 01701

Dr Dobb* s Journal

Box E 1263, El Camino Real

Menlo Park, Ca. 94025

Creative Computing

XApprrcatTons^and "software

)

PO Box 789-M

Morristown, N.J. 07960

80 Micro

(TRS-80)

PO Box 981

Farmingdale, N.Y 11737

80-U.S . Journal

(TRS-80)

3838 South Warner St.

Tacoma, Wa. 98409

Interface Age

(Business and home applications)

PO Box 1234

Cerritos, Ca. 90701

Microcomputing

PO Box 997

Farmingdale, N.Y.

Inf oWorld

(Newsweekly

)

375 Cochituate Rd., Box 880

Framingham, Ma. 01701

Micro

34 Chelmsford St.,

PO Box 6502

Chelmsford, Ma. 01824

Mi c ros^tems Tcp/M user Journal)

PO Box 1987

Morristown, N.J. 07960

Nibble

( APPLE computers)

BOX 325

Lincoln, Ma. 01773

PC Magazi ne

TiBM Personal Computers)

1239 21 Ave.

San Francisco, Ca. 94122
INFORMATION SOURCES

PC World

(IBM Personal Computers)

PO Box 6700

Bergenf ield, N.J. 07621

Popular Computing

PO Box 307

Martinsville, N.J. 08836

' 68 Micro Journal

5900^ Cassandra Smith, PO Box 849

Hixson, Tn. 37343

Softside

(software for APPLE, ATARI,

IBM, TRS-80)

515 Abbott Dr.

Broomall, Pa. 19008

Page B-10

Personal Computing

~4 Dis}r~DrT Box 139 1

6

Philadelphia, Pa. 19101

The Rainbow

5803 Timber Ridge Dr.

Prospect, Ky 40059

Sof talk

11021 Magnolia Blvd.

North Hollywood, Ca. 91601

Sync

TTIMEX/ S I NCLAIR

)

PO Box 789-M

Morristown, N.J. 07960
IFORMATION SOURCES Page B-11

Microcomputer Systems

The microcomputers listed below represent only a sample of the many

available microcomputer systems. We have attempted to identify the

more popular general purpose, professional, and/or portable systems.

The computers are listed alphabetically and include the micro chip,

the word size (8 or 16), and the operating system that is associated

with the machine. The omission or inclusion of a particular

microcomputer system does not imply criticism or endorsement by the

National Bureau of Standards or the authors.

APPLE 11+

Chip: CMOS 6502, 8 bit

Op S: Apple DOS

ATARI 800

Chip: CMOS 6502, 8 bit

Op S: Atari OS

COMMODORE VIC 20

Chip: MOS 6502A, 8 bit

Op S: Commodore DOS

CORVUS CONCEPT

Chip: Motorola 68000, 16 bit

Op S: Merlin

APPLE III

Chip: MOS 6502A, 8 bit

Op S: Apple SOS

COMMODORE 64

Chip: MOS 6510, 8 bit

OP S: Commodore OS

COMPAQ

Chip: Intel 8088, 16 bit

Op S: MS-DOS

CROMEMCO SYSTEM THREE

Chip: Zilog Z80, 8 bit

Op S: CP/M

DEC RAINBOW 100

Chip: Intel 8088, 16 bit; Zilog Z80, 8 bit

Op S: CP/M-86, CP/M-80

DEC PROFESSIONAL 350

Chip: Digital Fll (PDP 11/23); 16 bit

Op S: P/OS

DYNALOGIC HYPERION (portable)

Chip: Intel 8088, 16 bit

Op S: MS-DOS

FORTUNE 32:16

Chip: Motorola 68000, 16 bit

Op S: Unix

GRID COMPASS (portable)

Chip: Intel 8086, 16 bit

Op S: Grid OS

IBM PC

Chip: Intel 8088, 16 bit

Op S: MS-DOS

EPSON HX-20 (portable)

Chip: CMOS 6301, 8 bit

Op S: EPSON OS

FRANKLIN ACE 1000

Chip: MOS 6502, 8 bit

OP S: Apple DOS

HEATHKIT H89/Zenith Z89

Chip: Zilog Z80, 8 bit

OP S: HDOS, CP/M

INTERTEC SUPERBRAIN I

Chip: Zilog Z80, 8 bit

Op S: MS-DOS
INFORMATION SOURCES Page B-12

LEXICON LEX-31 (portable)

Chip: NSC 800, 8 bit

Op S: Lexicon OS

NEC PC 8001

Chip: PD780C-1, 8 bit

Op S: CP/M

ONYX C8000

Chip: Z8000, 16 bit

Op S: ONIX

MTU- 130

Chip: CMOS 6502A, 8 bit

Op S: CODOS

NORTH STAR ADVANTAGE

Chip: Zilog Z80A, 8 bit

Op S: Graphics CP/M

OSBORNE 1 (portable)

Chip: Zilog Z80A, 8 bit

Op S: CP/M

RADIO SHACK MODEL 16

Chip: ZILOG Z80A 8 bit; Motorola M68000

Op S: TRDOS-16, Zenix

TEXAS INSTRUMENTS PROFESSIONAL

Chip: Intel 8088, 16 bit

Op S: MS-DOS, CP/M-86, UCSD p-System

TIMEX SINCLAIR 1000

Chip: Zilog Z80A, 8 bit

Op S: Timex OS

VECTOR GRAPHIC 2800

Chip: Zilog Z80A 8 bit

Op S: CP/M

WANG PC

Chip: Intel 8086, 16 bit

Op S: MS-DOS

TRS-80 MODEL III

Chip: Zilog Z80A, 8 bit

Op S: TRSDOS

VICTOR 9000

Chip: Intel 8088, 16 bit

Op S: MS-DOS, CP/M

XEROX 820-11

Chip: Zilog Z80A, 8 bit

Op S: CP/M
Page C-1

APPENDIX C

AGENCY DOCUMENTS

The following is an annotated bibliography of the publications we have

received from several of the participating agencies. The bibliography

is arranged alphabetically by agency.

AIR FORCE DATA SYSTEMS DESIGN CENTER

Small Computer/office Automation Service Organization

Gunter Air Force Station, Alabama

1. A FLOPPY DISK HANDBOOK: Care and Utilization of Diskettes

This document is a general source of information about diskettes.

Included are discussions on understanding diskettes, storing and

handling, mailing, and traveling with diskettes, and the

environmental constraints and maintenance procedures involved in

diskette usage.

2. APPLE II TO H6000 CONNECTIVITY EVALUATION, July 1982;

prepared by Command Level ADP Systems Management Division

This report documents work performed to evaluate the ability of an

APPLE 11+ microcomputer system to function as a terminal and as a

remote computer which is capable of exchanging data files with a

HONEYWELL Series 6000 computer system.

3. "EVERYTHING YOU EVER WANTED TO KNOW ABOUT MICROCOMPUTERS" (But

didn't know WHO to ask), June 1, 1982;

by ETC Leland W. Slater

Refer to NAVDAC reference below.
AGENCY DOCUMENTS Page C-2

MICROCOMPUTER GUIDELINES, July 1, 982

Guidelines for the selection of microcomputer systems within the

U.S. Air Force are established in this document.

5. MICROCOMPUTER-TO-MICROCOMPUTER COMMUNICATIONS SOFTWARE, February

14, 1983

The purpose of this letter and attachments is to familiarize the

reader with the public domain programs available to implement

microcomputer-to-microcomputer communications

.

DEPARTMENT OF LABOR

1. AUTOMATED INFORMATION SYSTEMS STANDARDS, DLMS 9, September 1982

The standards for Department of Labor microcomputers is

established in this document, section 640.

NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION

Office of Information and Management Servies

(301)443-8113

1. NOAA ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION SYSTEMS POLICY AND GUIDELINES,

July 26, 1982

Policy and guidelines for microcomputer systems within NOAA are

established in this document.

NAV/UJ DATA AUTOMATION COMMAND

NAVY REGIONAL DATA AUTOMATION CENTER

Norfolk, Virginia

1. DATA-BASE SYSTEMS AND MICRO-COMPUTERS: AN OVERVIEW, August 1979;

by Michael Gagle, Gary Koehler, and Andrew Whinston

The purpose of this article is to present the data base concepts
DOCUMENTS Page C-3

in the framework of an example and describe how an implementation

would take place in the microcomputr environment.

2. "EVERYTHING YOU EVER WANTED TO KNOW ABOUT MICROCOMPUTERS" (But

didn't know WHO to ask), June 1, 1982;

by LTC Leland W. Slater

An informal, but detailed look into current microcomputer

technology, trends, standards, pitfalls, and recommendations.

3. Micro-computer Support, NAVDAC Advisory Bulletin No. 28, March 18,

1982

This bulletin contains a description of the microcomputer

activities and support provided by NAVDAC-Norfoik

.

4. NAVAL DATA AUTOMATION TECHNICAL STANDARDS: Microcomputer Hardware

and Software Standards, NAVDAC PUB 17.7, September 1982

This standard addresses the various hardware and software factors

that should be considered by Navy activities to ensure the

selection of microcomputer systems that will satisfy the

activity's requirements.

5. Projects, Technical Reports, and Software Evaluations;

by Micro Team, NARDAC, Norfolk

A list is given of the Micro Team's products: projects, reports,

and evaluations.

6. SAMPLE LETTER TO VENDORS

This letter requests vendors to supply its product to the

Microcomputer Evaluation Team for evaluation.

7. SMALL COMPUTER GUIDELINE: Acquisition and Management of Small

Computers

Guidelines for the acquisition and management of small computers

within the Navy's non-tactical automatic data processing

environment

.

8. Technical Evaluation and Recommendation for Procurement of

Microcomputer Systems, Technical Report UNF2100M, October 6,

1981;

by DPC Byron Williams

This report provides technical advice concerning the feasibility

of procuring microcomputers at the Naval Base Civilian Personnel

Office (NBCPO). Specific hardware and software configurations and

packages are discussed and recommended.

9. Technical Evaluation and Recommendation for Procurement of

Microcomputer system. Technical Report UNP9200H, January 1982;

by John Sever in
AGENCY DOCUMENTS Page C-4

This report provides technical advice concerning the selection of

hardware and software needed to satisfy current and future

requirements of the Commander Naval Construction Battatlion.

Specific hardware and software configurations are discussed and

recommended

.

SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION

Office of Computer Services

1. A GUIDE TO COMPUTATION AT THE SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION, PART I:

RESOURCES, Procedures in Computer Sciences, Vol II Num. 1, June

1981;

Compiled and Edited by Reginald Creighton

The guide provides information of particular use to the person new

to computer services at the Smithsonian. Part I of the guide

(Resources) describes the types of computer hardware, software,

and services available at the Smithsonian.

2. A GUIDE TO COMPUTATION AT THE SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION, PART II:

PROCEDURES, Procedures in computer Sciences, Vol II Num. 2,

October 1981;

Compiled and Edited by Reginald Creighton

The guide provides information of particular use to the person new

to computer services at the Smithsonian. Part II of the guide

(Procedures) describes how to use the Smithsonian's computer

resources. A section on microcomputer and telecommunication

equipment standards is included.

STATE OF NEW YORK

Office of General Services

1. DRAFT: MICROCOMPUTER ACQUISITION, Budget Policy and Reporting

Manual, September 1982

The acquisition requests for microcomputers, peripheral equipment,

and software is processed by the Office of General Services (OGS).

A description of the hardware, software and related technical

assistance available to requesting agencies is presented.
tENCY DOCUMENTS Page C-5

2. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: Centralized Acquisistion of Micro-computers

This report defines the objectives of the centralized acquisition

of microcomputers and the alternatives to accomplish these

objectives

.

3. MICROCOMPUTER SYSTEMS: Group Specification, SPEC-833 dated

February 3, 1982

A copy of the specification describing the microcomputer systems

to be furnished to the NYS Office of General Services. Included

are detailed specifications for: an educationally oriented system,

a business oriented system with 5-1/4" and a system with 8"

drives, and a multi-user business oriented system.

4. MICROCOMPUTER SYSTEMS: Notice of Contract Award for proposal

3643, date of issue: June 17, 1982

A copy of the microcomputer systems contract award, including

contract conditions, contractors, and item descriptions and price.

5. Office of General Services Computer Center: MICROCOMPUTER NEEDS

ASSESSMENT FORM

A copy of the form used by the OGS Micro Computer Unit to assist

agencies in acquiring the best possible microcomputer for its

needs

.

U. S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Special Programs Office

1. MICROCOMPUTER CHARACTERISTICS, July 1982;

issued by USDA Graduate School

This document provides basic information which can be used to

evaluate and select a microcomputer. It contains a description of

twelve microcomputer characteristics and a review of twenty-nine

models of microcomputers.

U.S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

Computer Center Division
AGENCY DOCUMENTS Page C-6

1. ASYNCHRONOUS COMMUNICATION/FILE TRANSFER USING GSCOM

This document provides instruction on the use of the asynchronous

communications/file transfer program, GSCOM.

2. MICROCOMPUTER SOFTWARE: Commercially-Available Packages Running

under CP/M

An analysis/explanation of software packages available at the

Survey is presented.

3. SUPERBRAIN USERS HANDBOOK, First Edition, November 16, 1981;

prepared by: Mary O. Jones, Roy W. Anderson, and E. J. McFaul

This handbook defines the basic procedures for using the INTERTEC

SUPERBRAIN video computer system in terms that will enhance the

new users ability to "get going."

4. USING SELECTOR-V on the INTERTEC SUPERBRAIN

This document presents a quick introduction to the use of the

SELECTOR-V data base management system for the INTERTEC SUPERBRAIN

(or COMPUSTAR) microcomputer.
Page D-1

APPENDIX D

ICST MICROCOMPUTER ELECTRONIC INFORMATION EXCHANGE

ACCESS INSTRUCTIONS

ACCESS INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE

ICST Microcomputer Electronic Information Exchange

The system is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If a connection

is not established at the end of two rings or if the line is busy,

hang up and try again.

To connect to the bulletin board the procedure is as follows:

1. You must have a standard ASCII terminal or computer to use the

bulletin board. Set your terminal (or computer communications) to:

300 Baud (A 1200 Baud option is planned for the near future)

8 Data Bits

No Parity

1 Stop Bit

2. Dial (301) 948-5718 if outside the local calling area or 948-5718

if within the D. C. Metropolitian Area.

3. The bulletin board should start immediately after the connection

is established. No pre-established accounts are required to use

the bulletin board.

4. A menu of options will be displayed by the board. Simply hit the

number (0-5) corresponding to the option desired (no carriage

return is required). First time users should enter 0 to obtain

additional information about the bulletin board. (If the menu

options are merely reprinted without any other action occurring,

the setup in (1) above is probably incorrect. Try setting up the

terminal again. Some terminals require that the power be turned

off for a few seconds and then turned on again with the new

settings. Likewise, some computers need to be rebooted with the

new software settings.)
ICST MICROCOMPUTER ELECTRONIC INFORMATION EXCHANGE Page D-2

5. On this bulletin board, which is actually a Remote CP/M (RCP/M)

bulletin board, file transfers can be performed via public domain

modem protocols as they become available. However, if file

transfer is to be accomplished, then you must use a computer as

your terminal with a working copy of a protocol available on the

bulletin board.

(At this writing XMODEM is available for file transfer. XMODEM is

an implementation of Ward Christenson' s M0DEM2 modem software).

6. Good Luck.

(If all else fails, call (301) 921-3485 and ask someone for the

Microcomputer Electronic Information Exchange System Operator).
Page E-1

APPENDIX E

COMPLETED QUEST lONAIRES

U.S. Department of Agriculture

Interview with Roger Myers from the Office of Information Resource

Management (OIRM) of Department of Agriculture

The Department of Agriculture consists of 20 subordinate agencies,

plus many field installations. An ad hoc intra-agency (USDA) ADP

Micro Policy Committee recommended general policies and procedures for

OIRM and the field installations, but detailed administration of these

policies is decentralized.

A. Policy, Management, and Administration

1. Does your agency distinguish among micros, minis, and large

general purpose computers? If so, how?

Policies have been developed to distinguish microcomputers

from other ADP equipment.

2. Who (person, position, organization) has overall responsibility

for micros?

The OIRM has responsiblity . The ADP Micro Policy committee

(consisting of representatives from the subordinate agencies

developed and recommended microcomputer policies under OIRM

leadership.

3. What policies (implicit and explicit), regulations, directives are

operative with regard to micros?

There is an explicit policy regarding microcomputers,

although caution is exercised to prevent the inhibition of

creativity through over-management. The use of microcomputers and

off-the-shelf software, is encouraged. A need for microcomputers
COMPLETED QUESTIONAIRES Page E-2

standards (e.g. operating systems, communications, etc.) is

recognized

.

4. Does the degree of control exercised over micros reflect a

considered approach or one that's just evolved?

Control is the result of a considered approach.

5. Are micros treated differently than other comparably priced

resources (e.g., lab equipment)?

Yes. The policy for microcomputers excludes laboratory

equipment.

6. To what extent are the sequence and pace with which applications

are introduced, controlled by higher level management?

The sequence and pace is consistent with department (OIRM)

policy and guidance, and is controlled by the subordinate agencies

which in turn, affect the field installation management.

B. Current environment/experience

1, What generic hardware and software are currently supported by

microcomputers?

Generic applications include word processing, electronic

spread sheet, DBMS systems, as well as publishing documents, and

Green-Thumb - market information to farmers; communications is

being used extensively.

Hardware includes: over 500 microcomputers with some

connected to photocopy ^nd communications equipment.

2. What telecommunications facilities are used to interconnect the

micros and what type of interconnections are made?

Extensive use is being made of electronic mail. Use of a

microwave dish for telecommunication facilities as well as a

packet-switched network is being examined. It is believed that

Local Area Nets (LAN) are an extremely important area and offer

large cost savings and the potential for sharing resources

(printers, hard disks).
•MPLETED QUESTlONAIRES Page E-3

3. What is the degree to which systems h/w and s/w are compatible/

transportable and can "talk" with one another?

Microcomputers are "talking" to the main frame and to other

microcomputers. However, it is recognized that more work is

required to effectively interface microcomputers with main frame

computers.

, 4. To what degree is use of off-the-shelf vs. specially developed

systems and software encouraged?

Off-the-shelf software packages are highly encouraged and

i used extensively.

5. VJhat has been the method by which you have identified and

evaluated microcomputer h/w and s/w? What have been the specific

features that you have looked for in specific application

I programs?

j Agriculture has identified and evaluated microcomputer

I hardware and software from literature, vendor visits and

broshures, and computer stores. Currently, some micro system

evaluations are being performed by OIRM. .le?What application

packages are being used including utilities and DBMS' s?

A variety of packages and utilities are being used.

ii

I

J 6. To what degree are development, procurement, support and

1 maintenance centralized?

Agriculture is a very decentralized agency. However,

arrangements with vendors for volume discounts of hardware and/or

I software is being negotiated.

I OIRM, in Washington, D.C., provides information to the

subordinate agencies (and field offices) on the selection of

' appropriate microcomputer systems.

7. What is the adequacy of vendor provided maintenance and support?

I Vendor support has not had to be faced to any great extent

.

' Maintenance is handled on an individual (no agency-wide contract)

basis with the vendor.

|| 8. What microcomputer operating system and languages are

I used/pref erred?

A CP/M compatible operating system is preferred. MSDOS,

UNIX, and p-System operating systems are approved variances.

COBOL, FORTRAN, BASIC, and DBMS are also used. A BASIC language

standard for micros is wanted.
COMPLETED QUESTlONAIRES Page E-4

9. Are outside (videotex) information utilities accessed? Which

ones? Extent of Use?

Videotext utilities are currently accessed including PBS and

Green Thumb. There is also widespread use of electronic mail.

10. To what degree are programs and files shared among different

users?

The amount of file and program sharing is believed to be

considerable

.

11. What problems have you encountered or do you foresee with regard

to limitation on multiple uses of proprietary s/w? Is your agency

attempting to deal with this contractually?

Volume discounts are being obtained for proprietary software.

12. What levels of growth do you foresee over the next five years with

respect to numbers of users and types of users and numbers and

types of equipment for your organization?

The numbers of microcomputers in the USDA is expected to grow

to over 10,000 in the next five years.

C. People, Political, and Other Considerations

1. What provisions have you made with regard to staffing and training

to facilitate the introduction, acceptance, and use of micros?

OIRM provides a centralized office for gathering and

disseminating information about microcomputer systems. A general

seminar is presented periodically. Arrangements are made to

demonstrate vendor hardware and software to Department personnel.

The USDA Graduate School Technical Center has been established as

a training vehicle.

2. What unique personnel problems do you foresee with the infusion of

microcomputers?

3. What unique political/organizational problems do you foresee with

the growing availability and use of micros?
MPLETED QUESTlONAIRES Page E-5

4. Do you anticipate any major changes in the physical work

environment due to a major introduction of micros?

Changes in the physical work environment will be evidenced by

the quantities of microcomputers introduced into the office.

5. Who has been the most agressive in the introduction of micros

ADP or the user community?

The users have been more aggressive, although the

mini-computer ADP groups are being augmented with microcomputers.

These efforts are supported by the subordinate agencies.

6. How have the issues related to micros differed for ADP and the

user community?

Management and users are concerned with the connectivity and

compatibility of micros and networks. Management is more aware of

the lack of microcomputer system standards.

D. Other Contacts/ References

1. Have any sources of inf ormation/expertise been particularly

valuable? If yes, which ones?

Magazines, newspaper periodicals (Infoworld, Computerworld )

,

peer groups, and contacts external to the Department are excellent

resources. Information has also been obtained from vendors and

local computer stores.
COMPLETED QUEST lONAI RES Page E-6

Department of Energy

Interview with John Coffman, a staff member in the Office of Computer

Services and Telecommunication Management (CSTM) which operates the

Headquarters Administrative Computer Center located in Germantown,

Maryland.

The Administrative Computer Center within the Department of Energy

(DOE) is responsible for the planning, development, procurement and

management of ADP equipment within DOE Headquarters.

A. Policy, Management, and Administration

1. Does your agency distinguish among micros, minis, and large

general purpose computers? If so, how?

The process governing MIS development is well-defined.

Central control resides with CSTM. System development follows the

life-cycle process described in FIPS 38 and 64. For Office

Automation, management and control is also centralized within

CSTM. The process to document user requirements and formulate an

. OA solution is covered in the answers to the next questions.

2. VTho (person, position, organization) has overall responsibility

for micros?

CSTM is the governing body on OA management for DOE

Headquarters.

3. What policies (implicit and explicit), regulations, directives are

operative with regard to micros?

There are three major activities currently underway. First,

a Headquarters Notice entitled, "Automated Office Support

Management" has been developed and is with the Director for

Administration for signature. Second, a task force has been

established to address total Headquarters needs and develop a

procurement vehicle to facilitate acquisition of OA equipment.

Lastly, a Headquarters users group for OA is being established.

4. Does the degree of control exercised over micros reflect a

considered approach or one that's just evolved?

Evolving approach. The organizational placement of

microcomputer control is in the process of being established. As

previously stated, management control for OA at HQ DOE rests with

CSTM.
MPLETED QUESTIONAIRES Page E-7

5. Are micros treated differently than other comparably priced

resources (e.g., lab equipment)?

At Headquarters, there is no lab equipment being purchased.

Although microcomputers are procured by the terminal

administration organization, they are treated as other ADP

equipment and not as typewriters or terminals.

6. To what extent are the sequence and pace with which applications

are introduced, controlled by higher level management?

The sequence and pace with which applications are introduced

is controlled entirely by higher level management and is

technology driven.

B. Current environment/experience

1. vniat generic hardware and software are currently available and

supported by microcomputers?

Current applications include spreadsheet analysis, database,

and word processing. Action tracking and electronic mail

applications will be added. All software is CP/M compatible.

Hardware includes several GNATs, Superbrains, IBM PC's,

TRS-SOs, Molecular Computer Systems, and Apples.

2. What telecommunications facilities are used to interconnect the

micros and what type of interconnections are made?

Telecommunications capability is via telephone lines and

twisted pair. The Molecular System supports 32 concurrent users

via twisted pair cables and 9600 baud telephone lines.

3. What is the degree to which systems h/w and s/w are compatible/

transportable and can "talk" with one another?

Intramicrocomputer communication is very common, (e.g. the GNATs

talk to each other as ACSII terminals). Interdevice communication

is an important consideration and will continue to be encouraged.

Inter-microcomputer commmunication is limited. GNATS and

Molecular System (both CP/M) exchange files.

4. To what degree is use of off-the-shelf vs. specially developed

systems and software encouraged?

The use of off-the-shelf software is encouraged.

Customization and limited software development may be supported in
COMPLETED QUESTlONAIRES Page E-8

the future.

5. What has been the method by which you have identified and

evaluated microcomputer h/w and s/w? What have been the specific

features that you have looked for in specific application

programs?

Evaluation criteria and formal procedures have been

developed. A formal project to evaluate microcomputer hardware

and software, and to report the findings has been established.

6. What application packages are being used including utilities and

DBMS's?

Application packages being used include: WORDSTAR,

SPELLGARD, SUPERCALC, VISICALC, -PLAN, -TREND, DBASEII, and PLAN

80. MULTIPLAN is currently under review.

7. To what degree are development, procurement, support and

maintenance centralized?

Development, procurement, support, and maintenance are highly

centralized. Maintenance is handled by an on-site contractor and

is primarily component repair or replacement.

8. What is the adequacy of vendor provided maintenance and support?

Vendor support is generally very good with on-site support

personnel required to restore service within two hours of the

reported outage.

9. What microcomputer operating system and languages are

used/preferred?

The microcomputer operating systems used are CP/M, MSDOS, and

Tandy/Apple proprietary. The language currently used is BASIC.

10. Are outside (videotex) information utilities accessed? Which

ones? Extent of Use?

No outside information utilities are being accessed on the

microcomputers, although several are being accessed via the

mainframes

.

11. To what degree are programs and files shared among different

users?

To the degree required, as determined by the analysis of each
(pMPLETED QUEST lONAIRES Page E-9

user's requirements.

12. What problems have you encountered or do you foresee with regard

to limitation on multiple uses of proprietary s/w? Is your agency

attempting to deal with this contractually?

We are currently investigating the implementation of user's

fees to deal with control problems associated with use of software

and to deal equitably with the vendors.

13. What levels of growth do you foresee over the next five years with

respect to numbers of users and types of users and numbers and

types of equipment for your organization?

The numbers and types of users are expected to grow rapidly

over the next five years. As mentioned earlier, a formal project

has been established which will deal with the convergence of micro

and office automation technologies resulting in extensive growth

in the next five years.

C. People, Political, and Other Considerations

1. What provisions have you made with regard to staffing and training

to facilitate the introduction, acceptance, and use of micros?

A training facility is available to enable users to gain

experience with the microcomputer hardware and software. Classes

and tutorial instruction are available. The microcomputer

technology staff (under the Terminal Administration Program)

maintains a telephone hotline. A formal support center and a

centralized problem file are in the developmental stages.

2. What unique personnel problems do you foresee with the infusion of

microcomputers?

These potential problems are to be addressed through the

implementation of an OA Users Group. Personnel (especially

secretaries) want jobs to be reclassified to reflect microcomputer

skills.

3. What unique political/organizational problems do you foresee with

the growing availability and use of micros?

The possible political/organizational problems have not yet

been considered.
COMPLETED QUEST lONAIRES Page E-10

4. Do you anticipate any major changes in the physical work

environment due to a major introduction of micros?

Changes are anticipated , but cannot be identified at present.

5. Who has been the most agressive in the introduction of micros

ADP or the user community?

Both have been aggressive. ADP tries to address all bona

fide user requirements through the implementation of either MIS,

OA systems or combination.

6. How have the issues related to micros differed for ADP and the

user community?

Users view microcomputers functionally, whereas ADP personnel

are also concerned with cost and compatibility with other ADP

equipments

.

D. Other Contacts/ References

1. Have any sources of information/expertise been particularly

valuable? If yes, which ones?

The DEC "how to" books (i.e., "how to buy a Personal

Computer") have been very informative.
COMPLETED QUEST lONAIRES Page E-11

Federal Communications Commission

Interview with Mike Gilbride, a staff member of the Office of

Associate Manageing Director for Information Management

The Office of the Associate Managing Director for Information

Management is one of six directorates within the Federal

Communications Commission (FCC). It is concerned with establishing

and managing the policy and procedures for all ADP aqui sit ions and use

throughout the FCC.

A. Policy, Management, and Administration

1. Does your agency distinguish among micros, minis, and large

general purpose computers? If so, how?

The FCC finds it difficult to distinguish between

microcomputers, minicomputers, and large general purpose

computers. Any distinction that is made is due to federal

procurement regulations, not FCC regulations.

2. Who (person, position, organization) has overall responsibility

for micros?

The Associate Managing Director, has overall responsibility

for microcomputers.

3. What policies (implicit and explicit), regulations, directives are

operative with regard to micros?

The FCC has no written policies regarding micros.

Implicitly, however, there are several policies. All micros must

be capable of running the UNIX operating system, be shared by all

personnel and not used as personal machines, and all must be

centrally procured and independently cost justified.

Additionally, all microcomputers must use Winchester fixed disks

(no floppy disks allowed) and have a magnetic tape archiving

capabi 1 i ty

.

4. Does the degree of control exercised over micros reflect a

considered approach or one that's just evolved?

Considered approach. The use of microcomputers has come

about as a result of the requirements for a FCC Local Area Network

(LAN) and the desire to make available centrally developed and

maintained data bases.
COMPLETED QUESTlONAIRES Page E-12

5. Are micros treated differently than other comparably priced

resources (e.g., lab equipment)?

Microcomputers are ADP devices and are treated in the same

manner as other ADP equipment (computers).

6. To what extent are the sequence and pace with which applications

are introduced, controlled by higher level management?

The sequence and pace are completely controlled by higher

level management. The microcomputers are part of the overall

master plan for its LAN and have been closely monitored.

B. Current environment/experience

1. 1. What generic hardware and software are currently available and

supported by microcomputers.

Generic applications include: management by objectives

(MBO), personnel action tracking, data entry, spreadsheets, and

word processing.

There are approximately 31 multiuser systems, all with fixed

disks and archiving capability. The hardware includes ONYX

(16-bit) and Zilog microcomputers, and several stand-alone word

processing units.

2. What telecommunications facilities are used to interconnect the

micros and what type of interconnections are made?

The FCC is developing and installing an Ethernet LAN to

interconnect the microcomputers.

3. What is the degree to which systems h/w and s/w are compatible/

transportable and can "talk" with one another?

All software that is run under the UNIX operating system is

compatible. However, the archiving tapes are not transportable.

4. To what degree is use of off-the-shelf vs. specially developed

systems and software encouraged?

Most software consists of off-the-shelf packages which have

been customized. The FCC has developed some software, but doesn't

have the resources to do much in-house development.
COMPLETED QUESTIONAIRES Page E-13

5. What has been the method by which you have identified and

evaluated microcomputer h/w and s/w? What have been the specific

features that you have looked for in specific application

programs?

Microcomputer hardware and software must operate under the

UNIX operating system. Software packages are identified and

evaluated by members of the Management Division staff and/or a

sample of potential users (ie: a few selected wp packages were

evaluated by several secretaries).

6. What application packages are being used including utilities and

DBMS's?

Utilities include: a customized relational data base

(INFORMIX), a user-friendly, menu driven interface to UNIX, and

various software packages to support the applications listed in

Bl.

7. To what degree are development, procurement, support and

maintenance centralized?

Development, procurement, support, and maintenance are

centralized through the Management Division.

8. What is the adequacy of vendor provided maintenance and support?

The FCC has a maintenance contract for its microcomputers.

Several problems have been encountered: one contractor (vendor

supplied maintenance) had problems getting spare parts, the

following contractor lacked expertise. A new maintenance contract

has been negotiated and is in place for FY83 . No problems have

been encountered with the Zilog machine.

In retrospect, the FCC would try to anticipate maintenance

requirements and keep its own spare parts and/or backup machines.

9. What microcomputer operating system and languages are

used/preferred?

All microcomputers use the UNIX operating system. C is the

used/preferred language. Several COBOL compilers are being

evaluated and will be used for some applications.

10. Are outside (videotex) information utilities accessed? Which

ones? Extent of Use?

Lexis, legal retrieval system, is the only outside

information utility accessed.
COMPLETED QUEST lONAI RES Page E-14

11. To what degree are programs and files shared among different

users?

There is very little sharing of files at this time. (The FCC

is organized functionally and has little need to share files).

However, the LAN will provide a file sharing capability.

12. vniat problems have you encountered or do you foresee with regard

to limitation on multiple uses of proprietary s/w? Is your agency

attempting to deal with this contractually?

Licenses are obtained for all copies of proprietary software.

They would like to see GSA negotiate a multiple copy/lower price

agreement with vendors and manufacturers.

13. What levels of growth do you foresee over the next five years with

respect to numbers of users and types of users and numbers and

types of equipment for your organization?

Question not addressed.

C. People, Political, and Other Considerations

1. VThat provisions have you made with regard to staffing and training

to facilitate the introduction, acceptance, and use of micros?

The Management Division conducts a one day seminar on systems

adminstration, provides user training and manuals, and staff

members are available to answer questions. Users are given any

assistance necessary to become acquainted with the LAN and the

microcomputers

.

2. What unique personnel problems do you foresee with the infusion of

microcomputers?

No unique personnel problems are foreseen. The problems that

might occur are the same as with implementing any computer system

(ie: hiring and keeping qualified personnel and operating the

computers).

3. What unique political/organizational problems do you foresee with

the growing availability and use of micros?

No unique political or organizational problems are foreseen.
ICOMPLETED QUEST lONAIRES Page E-15

4. Do you anticipate any major changes in the physical work

environment due to a major introduction of micros?

No changes in the work environment due to microcomputers are

anticipated. Although, the automation process may create minor

changes in office layout and communication lines.

5. Who has been the most agressive in the introduction of micros - ADP or user community?

Management

How have the issues related to micros differed for ADP and the

user community?

The issues have not differed between ADP and user community.

The users follow the direction provided by ADP management.

D. Other Contacts/ References

1. Have any sources of information/expertise been particularly

valuable? If yes, which ones?

Question not addressed.
COMPLETED QUESTIONAIRES Page E-16

U.S. Geological Survey

Interview with Rick McDonald, manager of the ADP Information

Management Section within the Computer Center Division

The Computer Center Division within the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)

is responsible for the planning, development and implementation of

microcomputer-based office automation systems as well as other ADP

equipments.

A. Policy, Management, and Administration

1. Does your agency distinguish among micros, minis, and large

general purpose computers? If so, how?

Some distinction is made between microcomputers,

minicomputers and large general pupose computers. There is a

separate policy for microcomputers that speaks to mandatory

requirements.

2. Who (person, position, organization) has overall responsibility

for micros?

Computer Center Division is responsible for the planning,

development, and implementation of microcomputer systems.

3. What policies (implicit and explicit), regulations, directives are

operative with regard to micros?

Assistance with microcomputer problems will be available to

those users who conform to USGS microcomputer requirement

guidances

,

4. Does the degree of control exercised over micros reflect a

considered approach or one that's just evolved?

The degree of control reflects a considered and planned

approach. The amount of control is subtle; hardware or software

not conforming to the guidelines will probably not be supported.

Therefore, it is to the benefit of the users to follow the

recommended hardware and software guidlines.

5. Are micros treated differently than other comparably priced

resources (e.g., lab equipment)?

Until recently, microcomputers were not treated differently

than other comparably priced resources. A microcomputer

requirements document is being developed.
COMPLETED QUEST lONAIRES Page E-17

6. To what extent are the sequence and pace with which applications

are introduced, controlled by higher level management?

The sequence and pace is controlled by the ADP group, as a way of encouraging the scientists to use the micro technolgy.

B. Current environment/ experience

1. What generic hardware and software are currently available and

supported by microcomputers?

Generic applications include: word processing, electronic

spreadsheets, data entry, DBMS, documentation control,

telecommunications, and project management, as well as various

scientific applications.

USGS uses Superbrain (8 bit, with minimum 64K RAM)

microcomputers. Additional peripherals include plotters and low

and medium speed matrix printers.

2. What telecommunications facilities are used to interconnect the

micros and what type of interconnections are made?

Two software packages, GSCOM and RCP/M are available. GSCOM,

a MODEM-7 based package enables communication between a microcomputer and the mainframe computers and/or other

microcomputers. RCP/M is an electronic bulletin board software

package and a method to exchange software. Additionally, a microcomputer can emmulate a RJE station (IBM BSC capability)

using the BISYNC-80 package.

3. What is the degree to which systems h/w and s/w are compatible/

transportable and can "talk" with one another?

Systems are highly compatible/ transportable . Hardware

systems consist of one type of microcomputer with compatible

peripherals. GSCOM makes it possible for microcomputers to "talk"

with each other

.

4. To what degree is use of off-the-shelf vs. specially developed

systems and software encouraged?

Off-the-shelf systems and software are highly encouraged.

Several software packages have been developed in-house, and are

available via the software exchange - RCP/M.
COMPLETED QUESTIONAIRES Page E-18

5. What has been the method by which you have identified and

evaluated microcomputer h/w and s/w? What have been the specific

features that you have looked for in specific application

programs?

Question not addressed

6. What application packages are being used including utilities and

DBMS's?

All software is CP/M compatible. Application packages

currently being used include: an editor, WORDSTAR; spelling and

grammer checkers. The WORD and GRAMMETIK; a DBMS, SELECTOR-V;

telecommunications, GSCOM, RCP/M, and BISYNC-8O7 spreadsheet,

PIiAN-80; and project management, MILESTONE.

7. To what degree are development, procurement, support and

maintenance centralized?

Procurement, development, support, and maintenance are highly

centralized. Current efforts are underway to complete a mandatory

requirements document.

8. What is the adequacy of vendor provided maintenance and support?

Question not addressed.

9. What microcomputer operating system and languages are

used/preferred?

The CP/M operating system is used and encouraged. Languages

include: BASIC, FORTRAN and COBOL.

10. Are outside (videotex) information utilities accessed? Which

ones? Extent of Use?

Various Electronic Bulletin Board Systems (BBS) are accessed.

11. To what degree are programs and files shared among different

users?

There is a remarkable degree of program and file sharing

between users. The telecommunication facilities, software

exchange, and ISD support provide the means for users to share

information, data, and programs.
1 COMPLETED QUESTlONAIRES Page E-19

12. What problems have you encountered or do you foresee with regard

to limitation on multiple uses of proprietary s/w? Is your agency

attempting to deal with this contractually?

The illegal use of licensed software is discouraged. Vendor

discounts are obtained whenever possible.

13. What levels of growth do you foresee over the next five years with

respect to numbers of users and types of users and numbers and

types of equipment for your organization?

USGS is conducting a worldwide agency survey to determine the

needs and growth of microcomputer systems within the USGS.

C. People, Political, and Other Considerations

1. What provisions have you made with regard to staffing and training

to facilitate the introduction, acceptance, and use of micros?

USGS is undergoing a reorganization to more closely align the

microcomputer efforts with the needs. Training, manuals and

support are provided by the ISD.

2. What unique personnel problems do you foresee with the infusion of

microcomputers?

The staff assigned to mini- and mainframe computers will need

to be retrained.

3. What unique political/organizational problems do you foresee with

the growing availability and use of micros?

Some applications originally programmed for the larger

computers could be adapted (for efficiency) to microcomputers.

The redirection of the application to microcomputers may cause

some problems.

4. Do you anticipate any major changes in the physical worl^

environment due to a major introduction of micros?

Question not addressed.

5. Who has been the most agressive in the introduction of micros

ADP or the user community?

Question not addressed.
COMPLETED QUESTIONAIRES Page E-20

6. How have the issues related to micros differed for ADP and the

user community?

Question not addressed.

D. Other Contacts/ References

1. Have any sources of inf ormation/expertise been particularly

valuable? If yes, which ones?

Electronic Bulletin Board Systems (EBBS) are valuable sources

of information. This free exchange of information, programs, and

software has increased their microcomptuer awareness as well as

software inventory.
)MPLETED QUESTIONAIRES Page E-21

Air Force System Design Center

Interview with Major Peter Donohue, Chief of the Air Force Small

Computer/office Automation Service Organization (AFSCOASO)

AFSCOASO is part of the Air Force System Design Center (AFSDC) at

Gunter AFB AL. It is the centralization of expertise for small

computer assistance for the Air Force. Its goal is to maintain and

transport information, data, and software for microcomputers.

A. Policy, Management, and Administration

1. Does your agency distinguish among micros, minis, and large

general purpose computers? If so, how?

There is no distinction made between microcomputers,

minicomputers, except in terms of cost, required physical

environment, and user processing tim available.

2. Who (person, position, organization) has overall responsibility

for micros?

AFSCOASO received its authority in May 1982, and has overall

responsibility for microcomputers. Each Air Command has its own

technical service center with responsibilities for procurement and

support of microcomputers within its command.

3. What policies (implicit and explicit), regulations, directives are

operative with regard to micros?

Microcomputers must be justified and purchased under the

appropriate ADP procurement regulations and policies. In

addition, AFSCOASO has written several guidance documents:

Microcomputer Guidelines, Diskette Handbook, OA Survey, and

example RFPs. Other documents are f orthcomming.

The microcomputer defacto industry standards are recommended

and encouraged (CP/M, Z80, S-100 bus, 8" floppy). Major air

commands are encouraged to use the defacto standards to ensure

rapid AFSCOASO support.

4. Does the degree of control exercised over micros reflect a considered approach or one that's just evolved?

A considered approach, demonstrated by the advanced planning

required to establish the AFSCOASO.

5. Are micros treated differently than other comparably priced

resources (e.g., lab equipment)?
COMPLETED QUESTIONAIRES Page E-22

Microcomputers are treated in the same manner as other ADP

devices.

6. To what extent are the sequence and pace with which applications

are introduced, controlled by higher level management?

The sequence and pace are controlled by the ADP management

structure. However, control is not meant to hinder the

introduction of applications. Control is obtained by providing

functional areas with services that they require. Control then

provides for increased software portability by providing a

customer service which is in demand.

B. Current environment/experience

1. What generic hardware and software are currently available and

supported by microcomputers?

Applications range from generic utilites such as word

processing; electronic spreadsheet; and DBMS; to specific

applications of the Air Force.

Hardware includes various equipment (Apple, Cromemco,

TRS-80), all with the following minimum configuration

one 8-bit processor

64K bytes of RAM

one terminal with a 24 line x 80 character display

2. What telecommunications facilities are used to interconnect the

micros and what type of interconnections are made?

Telecommunications facilities are being developed. A local

area network (LAN) is being installed and will connect AFSCOASO

microcomputers with various host processors. Dual cable, wideband

communication is being used. Also, being explored are interface

protocols and the communications package, MODEM 7.

3. What is the degree to which systems h/w and s/w are compatible/

transportable and can "talk" with one another?

One of the primary concerns of AFSCOASO is to promote the

transportability of information, data and software. The use of

CP/M compatible software and 8" single-sided, single density, CP/M

formatted, soft sectored floppy disks has enabled software to be

taken from machine to machine or vendor to vendor.
DMPLETED QUESTIONAIRES Page E-23

4. To what degree is use of off-the-shelf vs. specially developed

systems and software encouraged?

Off-the-shelf software packages are highly encouraged.

Customization and limited software development are done (within

the AFSCOASO and other AF commands) and made available through an

on-line software exchange facility called Dial-A-Log.

5. What has been the method by which you have identified and

evaluated microcomputer h/w and s/w? What have been the specific

features that you have looked for in specific application

programs?

AFSCOASO as a center of expertise within the Air Force,

evaluates all hardware and software that will or is currently

being used. Hardware and software used within the Air Force is

identified, acquired, and evaluated. AFSCOASO produces

guidelines, evaluations, specifications, surveys, etc., on

microcomputer systems, hardware, and software.

6. What application packages are being used including utilities and

DBMS's?

Almost everything that is available on the commercial market.

CP/M compatible software is suggested.

7. To what degree are development, procurement, support and

maintenance centralized?

AFSCOASO provides centralized development, procurement, and

support for the Air Force with respect to microcomputers. Also,

every major air command has a small computer technical center that

procures and supports microcomputers.

A tri-service (Air Force, Army, Navy) procurement agreement

for microcomputer hardware and software is being developed.

Arrangements with vendors for volume discounts have been and are

being discussed.

It is recommended that the major air commands establish a

maintenance contract with the vendor from whom the microcomputers

are purchased or arrange for repairs on a per call basis. There

is no centralized maintenance program.

8. What is the adequacy of vendor provided maintenance and support?

The major air commands should arrange maintenance contracts

locally (see above answer). Users are encouraged to buy an extra

microcomputer (buy 51, if you need 50) to enable replacement of

the system during repair.
COMPLETED QUEST lONAIRES Page E-24

9. What microcomputer operating system and languages are

used/preferred?

CP/M operating system with a transient program area of not

less than 56K bytes is encouraged. Available languages include:

Pascal, COBOL, FORTRAN, and BASIC.

10. Are outside (videotex) information utilities accessed? VThich

ones? Extent of Use?

AFSCOASO does not know the extent of use of outside

information utilities by the major air commands.

11. To what degree are programs and files shared among different

users?

The sharing of programs and files is encouraged. A Software

" Exchange Facility is available through the use of DIAL-A-LOG.

12. What problems have you encountered or do you foresee with regard

to limitation on multiple uses of proprietary s/w? Is your agency

attempting to deal with this contractually?

Licenses are obtained for proprietary software. Volume

discounts are obtained whenever possible. AFSCOASO would like to

see the establishment of an Air Force-wide license for multiple

copy discounts of proprietary software. The AFSCOASO is working

an RFP to accomplish this.

13. What levels of growth do you foresee over the next five years with

respect to numbers of users and types of users and numbers and

types of equipment for your organization?

Question not addressed.

C. People, Political, and Other Considerations

1, What provisions have you made with regard to staffing and training

to facilitate the introduction, acceptance, and use of micros?

The training of users on microcomputers should be addressed

relative to the cost of the microcomputer system itself. Training

classes, conferences, and a telephone hot-line, are provided by

AFSCOASO and/or the major air commands. The use of vendor

courses, university classes, manuals, and on-the-job training is

encouraged

.

AFSCOASO has developed an on-line system (DIAL-A-LOG).
COMPLETED QUEST lONAIRES Page E-25

DIAL-A-LOG is available via the ARPAnet and provides users a

software exchang/s, research index, user groups, news, etc..

2. VThat unique personnel problems do you foresee with the infusion of

microcomputers?

The main problem is the inability to hire and keep qualified

personnel. The career path for the technical person in the

military should be reexamined.

3. What unique political/organizational problems do you foresee with

the growing availability and use of micros?

Question not addressed.

4. Do you anticipate any major changes in the physical work

environment due to a major introduction of micros?

This cannot be addressed by the AFSCOASO, but should be a

concern of each Air Command and installation.

5. Who has been the most agressive in the introduction of micros

ADP or the user community?

Factions of the ADP community have been the most aggressive.

The microcomputer is a tool provided by the ADP community that

enables the end user to more readily accomplish his job. It is

encumbent upon the ADP community to provide tools such as these.

6. How have the issues related to micros differed for ADP and the

user community?

The role of the ADP community has changed. AFSCOASO and the

ADP groups within an Air Command must be customer oriented and

provide the user with required services. With the advent of the

micro, the user community will be assuming more and more of the

application programming effort.

D. Other Contacts/ References

1. Have any sources of information/expertise been particularly

valuable? If yes, which ones?

Journals, magazines, local computer stores, vendors, local

universities, and other microcomputer users are valuable sources

of information.
COMPLETED QUESTIONAIRES Page E-26

House of Representatives, House Information Systems

Conversation with Dave Gaydos

House Information Systems (HIS) Computer Center Division is

responsible for the planning, development, procurement and management

of new technology ADP and communications equipment and software within

the House of Representatives.

A. Policy, Management, and Administration

1. Does your agency distinguish among micros, minis, and large

general purpose computers? If so, hov/?

There is a distinction made between microcomputers,

minicomputers, and large general purpose computers. Price is a

major distinguishing feature.

2. Who (person, position, organization) has overall responsibility

for micros?

The Director's Office has overall responsibility for ADP

systems, including microcomputers. However, microcomputer systems

(within the Congressional offices) have been set up independantly

of HIS.

3. What policies (implicit and explicit), regulations, directives are

operative with regard to micros?

The regulations governing microcomputers are only now

beginning to evolve. The need to establish a microcomputer policy

increases as the number, variety, and usage of microcomputer

systems increase. Standards are being established.

4. Does the degree of control exercised over micros reflect a

considered approach or one that's just evolved?

There is some control at this time.

5. Are micros treated differently than other comparably priced

resources (e.g., lab equipment)?

The environment is almost totally business/administrative and

lab equipment is not procured. All microcomputers are treated

similarly to other comparatively priced ADP equipment.
COMPLETED QUESTIONAIRES Page E-27

6. To what extent are the sequence and pace with which applications

are introduced, controlled by higher level management?

Higher level management is becoming more involved. The

members of the House of Representative have similar needs

(correspondence, value-added capabilities, etc.), many of which

can be handled by micrcomputer systems. HIS's microcomputer

efforts to meet these needs are being increased.

B. Current environment/ experience

1. What generic hardware and software are currently available and

supported by microcomputers?

Generic applications include the business/administrative

software packages, MSDOS and DEC-compatible hardware and software.

Hardware includes several Cromemco, Apple, IBM PC, and Norths tar

microcomputers

.

2. What telecommunications facilities are used to interconnect the

micros and what type of interconnections are made?

Telecommunications facilities are being developed. A

MitreNet based, broadband local area network (LAN) is being

installed in most offices and buildings. The necessary links will

be provided to connect any Congressman's system to the LAN.

3. What is the degree to which systems h/w and s/w are compatible/

transportable and can "talk" with one another?

Question not addressed.

4. To what degree is use of off-the-shelf vs. specially developed

systems and software encouraged?

Off-the-self systems and software packages are highly

encouraged

.

5. What has been the method by which you have identified and

evaluated microcomputer h/w and s/w? What have been the specific

features that you have looked for in specific application

programs?

Informaition has been exchanged with other Federal Agency

microcomputer users. The use of both CP/M and MSDOS systems and

software is encouraged because of the large number of software

packages currently available. DEC microcomputer systems are
COMPLETED QUESTIONAIRES Page E-28

considered as extensions of current DEC minicomputers currently in

use

.

6. What application packages are being used including utilities and

DBMS's?

Application packages include: WORDSTAR, SELECTOR V, LOTUS

1-2-3, VISICALC, CONDOR, and dBASE II.

7. To what degree are development, procurement, support and

maintenance centralized?

Microcomputer development, procurement, support, and

maintenance will be centralized within HIS, however, each

Congressman can develop and procure his/her own system. The HIS

staff support the House members and will be overseeing these

services

.

8. What is the adequacy of vendor provided maintenance and support?

Question not addressed,

9. What microcomputer operating system and languages are

used/preferred?

Language preferences include CP/M, MSDOS, DEC compatible

systems, and BASIC.

10. Are outside (videotex) information utilities accessed? Which

ones? Extent of Use?

The information utility, Dialcom and JURIS are used by the

Congressional offices.

11. To what degree are programs and files shared among different

users?

Question not addressed.

12. What problems have you encountered or do you foresee with regard

to limitation on multiple uses of proprietary s/w? Is your agency

attempting to deal with this contractually?

Licenses

discounts will

are obtained

be negotiated

for proprietary software. Volume

and obtained whenever possible.
COMPLETED QUESTlONAIRES Page E-29

13. What levels of growth do you foresee over the next five years with

respect to numbers of users and types of users and numbers and

types of equipment for your organization?

Growith within the House should be consistent with industry

projections. Micros will certainly improve the way Congressional

district offices do their will work.

C. People, Political, and Other Considerations

1. What provisions have you made with regard to staffing and training

to facilitate the introduction, acceptance, and use of micros?

The users of ADP equipment in the House are served by the HIS

staff. They will provide training, manuals, and support to

microcomputer users.

2. What unique personnel problems do you foresee with the infusion of

microcomputers?

Though it may not be a problem, providing information and

coaching specialists in the information center environment, must

be addressed.

3. What unique political/organizational problems do you foresee with

the growing availability and use of micros?

HIS has little control over the types of microcomputer

hardware and software being purchased by and for the offices of

the individual congressmen. HIS will need to provide consumer

clearinghouse type services.

4. Do you anticipate any major changes in the physical work

environment due to a major introduction of micros?

There is the possibility of more staff work being done in

Congressional district offices.

5. Who has been the most agressive in the introduction of micros

ADP or the user community?

Both have been aggressive with the user community a little

more so.
COMPLETED QUESTIONAIRES Page E-30

6. How have the issues related to micros differed for ADP and the

user community?

The user community views microcomputers as a tool to help

automate the office work; the ADP staff is concerned with the

connectivity and compatibility of the microcomputers and networks.

D, Other Contacts/ References

1. Have any sources of information/expertipe been particularly

valuable? If yes, which ones?

A lot of work has been done with the Congressional Budget

Office.
:OMPLETED QUESTIONAIRES Page E-31

I

Department of Labor

Interview with Mr. Thomas Byrne, Director of the Office of Policy and

Review.

The Department of Labor (DOL) consists of several semi-autonomous

organizations. The Office of Policy and Review within DOL

headquarters has oversight responsibility for Data Processing.

A. Policy, Management, and Administration

1. Does your agency distinguish among micros, minis, and large

general purpose computers? If so, how?

The Department of Labor does not distinguish between

microcomputers, minicomputers. except in terms of cost. There is

no real technological differentiation between the various types of

systems. The Department no longer purchases large general purpose

computers. Instead, ADP services are obtained on a contract basis

from the private sector.

2. Who (person, position, organization) has overall responsibility

for micros?

The Oversight and Review group within the Office of

Administrative Management (0AM) has overall responsibility for

microcomputers

.

3. What policies (implicit and explicit), regulations, directives are

operative with regard to micros?

Currently, there are no explicit policies regarding

microcomputers. A draft guideline ("Automated Information Systems

Standards") has been completed, but is not yet in effect. The

emphasis of this document is on compatibility and convertibility.

DOL does not want to inhibit the infusion of new technology.

Implicitly, floppy disks and single function systems such as

word processors are being discouraged.

4. Does the degree of control exercised over micros reflect a

considered approach or one that's just evolved?

DOL does not differentiate between the various types of ADP

equipment, and therefore exercises minimal control over the

acuisition of this type of equipment. Concern is with controlling

applications and/or systems and not with controlling the use of

microcomputer technology. Projects are controlled and reviewed,

not equipment.
COMPLETED QUEST lONAIRES Page E-32

5. Are micros treated differently than other comparably priced

resources (e.g., lab equipment)?

Microcomputers are ADP devices and are treated in the same

manner as other ADP equipments

.

6. To what extent are the sequence and pace with which applications

are introduced, controlled by higher level management?

The missions (applications) within DOL are generated by high

level management and changing legislation. Thus, there are few

clearcut applications which can be defined and planned for in

advance. With the exception of the Bureau of Labor Statistics

(BLS), the agencies which comprise DOL rarely have the luxury of

advance planning of applications and microcomputer use.

B. Current environment/ experience

1. What generic hardware and software are currently available and

supported by microcomputer.

There is currently a request for proposal (RFP) to procure 30

systems. These systems will handle word processing, data entry,

remote job entry (RJE), and be interactive and batch systems.

Systems will be multifunctional and use hard disks (not floppy

disks )

.

2. What telecommunications facilities are used to interconnect the

micros and what type of interconnections are made?

DOL is currently running their own network. They are

planning to release an RFP to procure a Value Added Network.

3. What is the degree to which systems h/w and s/w are compatible/

transportable and can "talk" with one another?

There is presently no acceptable way to insure systems

compatibility/ transportability without creating a chilling effect

on the acquisition of such systems. An acceptable standard is

being developed.

4. To what degree is use of off-the-shelf vs. specially developed

systems and software encouraged?

The use of off-the-shelf systems and software is encouraged.
COMPLETED QUESTlONAI RES Page E-33

5. What has been the method by which you have identified and

evaluated microcomputer h/w and s/w? What have been the specific

features that you have looked for in specific application

programs?

The concern is with the functional capabilities of the

system.

6. What application packages are being used including utilities and

DBMS's?

Several DBMSs are used. The ability to link a DBMS from a

non-host system to a host system is a problem that must be

addressed.

7. To what degree are development, procurement, support and

maintenance centralized?

All development, procurement (under $50,000), support, and

^maintenance are decentralized and are the responsibility of the

agencies within DOL. Purchases over $50,000 must go through this

office (Office of Policy and Review)

.

8. What is the adequacy of vendor provided maintenance and support?

Not a concern of this office. Maintenance and support is

delegated to the agency level.

9. What microcomputer operating system and languages are

used/preferred?

Operating systems used/preferred include: UNIX, P-System,

CP/M, and MS-DOS. Languages include BASIC, Pascal, C, ALGOL,

COBOL, FORTRAN, and FORTH.

10. Are outside (videotex) information utilities accessed? Which

ones? Extent of Use?

No outside utilities are being referenced as there is no

particular need to do so.

11. To what degree are programs and files shared among different

users?

Some program and file sharing occurs within agencies

projects. Programs and files are not shared between agencies

since there is very little commonality between agency projects.
COMPLETED QUESTIONAIRES Page E-34

12. What problems have you encountered or do you foresee with regard

to limitation on multiple uses of proprietary s/w? Is your agency

attempting to deal with this contractually?

No problems are forseen. It is believed that any licensing

problems that may arise will be taken care of by industry.

13. What levels of growth do you foresee over the next five years with

respect to numbers of users and types of users and numbers and

types of equipment for your organization?

The numbers of terminal devices DOL will grow into the

thousands over the next five years.

C. People, Political/ and Other Considerations

1. What provisions have you made with regard to staffing and training

to facilitate the introduction, acceptance, and use of micros?

Our Directorate of Personnel Management is currently

developing a comprehensive program to train staff and management

in the use of our soon to be installed computer systems.

2. What unique personnel problems do you foresee with the infusion of

microcomputers?

Microcomputers have caused the jobs of traditional ADP

personnel to change. It is necessary to reorient these personnel

to the new technology.

3. What unique political/organizational problems do you foresee with

the growing availability and use of micros?

The growing availability and use of micrcomputers will create

a greater demand for data processing and an increased awareness of

its capabilities. As the use of microcomputers by higher level

management increases, the demand for aquiring systems, software,

and support will also increase.

4. Do you anticipate any major changes in the physical work

environment due to a major introduction of micros?

The physical work environment will need to be modified to

accomodate both personnel and equipment.
COMPLETED QUESTlONAIRES Page E-35

5. Who has been the most agressive in the introduction of micros - ADP or the user community?

The ADP community has been most aggressive. The ADP managers

are relatively young, offer no resistance to incorporating new

technology, and have encouraged the acquisition of "user oriented"

microcomputer systems.

6. How have the issues related to micros differed for ADP and the

user community?

The issues related to microcomputers have not differed

inasmuch as our ADP personnel provide program support and are

'servers' of the program areas.

D. Other Contacts/ References

1. Have any sources of inf ormation/expertise been particularly

valuable? If yes, which ones?

Question not addressed.
COMPLETED QUEST lONAIRES Page E-36

Navy Data Automation Command and

Navy Regional Data Automation Command

Interview with Robert Green at the Navy Data Automation Command

(NAVDAC) and John Sever in of the Micro/Mini Evaluation Team at the

Navy Regional Data Automation Command (NARDAC) at Norfolk, Va.

NAVDAC is responsible for the support of non-tactical ADP resources in

the Navy. It consists of seven regional commands, NARDACs.

NARDAC-Norfoik has been tasked with providing a centralized group to

evaluate and support microcomputers within the Navy. The Micro/Mini

Evaluation Team is that group.

A. Policy, Management, and Administration

1. Does your agency distinguish among micros, minis, and large

general purpose computers? If so, how?

There is no distinction made between micrcomputers

,

minicomputers and large general purpose computers, except in terms

of cost. Systems over $3000 are procured from different funds.

2. VTho (person, position, organization) has overall responsibility

for micros?

The NAVDAC-Pentagon has overall ADP responsibility.

NAVDAC-Norfoik provides overall support (evaluations and

recommendations) for microcomputers to the other NAVDAC commands.

3. vniat policies (implicit and explicit), regulations, directives are

operative with regard to micros?

NAVDAC has developed a packet of information documents on

microcomputers. These documents do not establish policy or

directives, but are intended as guidance documents and to show

current NAVDAC plans for microcomputer support.

The microcomputer defacto standards are encouraged (CP/M,

Z80, S-100 bus, 8" floppy). Navy Commands are encouraged to use

the defacto standards, if NAVDAC support is desired.

4. Does the degree of control exercised over micros reflect a

considered approach or one that's just evolved?

The degree of control has evolved and has resulted in the

establishment of the Micro/Mini Evaluation Team, at

NARDAC-Norfoik. The amount of control is subtle, hardware or

software not recommended by the Evaluation Team, will not be

supported. Therefore, it is to the benefit of the Navy Commands

to use recommended hardware and software.
COMPLETED QUESTIONAIRES Page E-37

5. Are micros treated differently than other comparably priced

resources (e.g., lab equipment)?

Microcomputers are treated in the same manner as other ADP

devices

.

6. To what extent are the sequence and pace with which applications

are introduced, controlled by higher level management?

Question not addressed.

B. Current environment/experience

I 1. What generic hardware and software are currently available and

j supported by microcomputers?

Generic applications range from: word processing, electronic

' spreadsheet, data entry, DBMS, correspondence control, work

forcasting, to applications specific to the functional needs of

the Navy.

i Hardware includes various equipments. The following minimum

j levels are recommended:

! one Z-80 processor (4MHZ)

I 64K bytes of RAM

I one terminal with a 24 line x 80 character

display

one 8" floppy disk drive, soft sectored

2. What telecommunications facilities are used to interconnect the

micros and what type of interconnections are made?

Microcomputers are not connected at this time. The

development and use of a local area network (LAN) is being

explored

.

3. What is the degree to which systems h/w and s/w are compatible/

transportable and can "talk" with one another?

One of the most significant advantages of CP/M and a primary

I concern of the Navy, is software transportability. The use of

f CP/M compatible software and 8" soft sectored floppy disk drives

has enabled software to be taken from machine to machine or vendor

to vendor.

4. To what degree is use of off-the-shelf vs. specially developed

systems and software encouraged?
COMPLETED QUESTIONAIRES Page E-38

Off-the-shelf software packages are highly encouraged;

however customization of software packages is done. Some in-house

software for specialized functional requirements such as shipyard

functions is developed and programmed.

5. What has been the method by which you have identified and

evaluated microcomputer h/w and s/w? What have been the specific

features that you have looked for in specific application

programs?

The Evaluation Team has identified and evaluated hardware and

software thru hands-on testing of manufacturer's products. The

documentation and users manuals are compared with the actual

implementations of the systems. Human factor aspects (user

friendliness, ergonomics) are also evaluated.

6. What application packages are being used including utilities and

DBMS's?

CP/M compatible software is suggested. Applications packages

currently being recommended include: word processors: WORDSTAR

with SPELLSTAR, SPELLGUARD, WORDSEARCH; spreadsheets: CALCSTAR,

SUPERCALC, T/MAKER II; PEARL SERIES program generator;

application generators: SELECTOR IV, DBASE II, MDBS III; and

DATASTAR data entry.

7. To what degree are development, procurement, support and

maintenance centralized?

Support through evaluations and recommendations is

centralized. Procurement, development, and maintenance are not.

The ADP group within each NARDAC is responsible for the

procurement, development, limited support, and maintenance of

microcomputers. It is recommended that maintenance be included

with the microcomputer procurement or arranged on a per call

basis.

A tri-service (Navy, Army, Air Force) procurement agreement

for microcomputer hardware and software is being developed.

8. What is the adequacy of vendor provided maintenance and support?

Question not addressed.

9. What microcomputer operating system and languages are

used/preferred?

The CP/M operating system is used and encouraged. The

languages include: Pascal, COBOL FORTRAN, PL/l, and BASIC.
1

COMPLETED QUESTlONAI RES Page E-39

10. Are outside (videotex) information utilities accessed? Which

ones? Extent of Use?

The Evaluation Team does not know the extent of use of

outside information utilites by the Navy Commands.

11. To what degree are programs and files shared among different

users?

Question not addressed.

12. What problems have you encountered or do you foresee with regard

to limitation on multiple uses of proprietary s/w? Is your agency

attempting to deal with this contractually?

Licenses are obtained for proprietary software. Volume

discounts are obtained whenever possible. The Evaluation Team has

been able to obtain hardware and software on loan from vendors.

13. What levels of growth do you foresee over the next five years with

respect to numbers of users and types of users and numbers and

types of equipment for your organization?

Question not addressed.

C. People, Political, and Other Considerations

1. What provisions have you made with regard to staffing and training

to facilitate the introduction, acceptance, and use of micros?

NAVDAC periodically sponsers a conference on micrcomputers

for Naval personnel. A training and demonstration center is

available at NARDAC-Norf oik . The center has several microcomputer

systems with which users may experiment. Software sharing,

bulletin boards, user groups, telephone hot-line, and

microcomputer workshops have also been developed to help

facilitate the introduction and use of microcomputers.

2. What unique personnel problems do you foresee with the infusion of

microcomputers?

It is necessary to train and advise Navy customers on how to

implement microcomputers and when to use a microcomputer rather

than a mini- or mainframe computer.
COMPLETED QUESTIONAIRES Page E-40

3. What unique political/organizational problems do you foresee with

the growing availability and use of micros?

Question not adressed.

4. Do you anticipate any major changes in the physical work

environment due to a major introduction of micros?

This is not a concern of the Evaulation Team, but rather a

concern of each of the Navy Commands

.

5. Who has been the most agressive in the introduction of micros - ADP or the user community?

The Evaluation Team is very agressive in the promotion of

microcomputers

.

6. How have the issues related to micros differed for ADP and the

user community?

Question not addressed.

Other Contacts/ References

Have any sources of information/expertise been particularly

valuable? If yes, which ones?

Journals, magazines, local computer stores, and vendors have

been valuable sources of information.
COMPLETED QUESTlONAIRES Page E-41

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Interview with Francis Balint, Director of the Office of Information

and Management Services (OIMS) and his staff.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) consists of

several semi-autonomous organizations. OIMS administers policy and

guidance to these organizations.

A. Policy, Management, and Administration

1. Does your agency distinguish among micros, minis, and large

general purpose computers? If so, how?

All types of microcomputers are treated as any other ADP

equipment. It is not clear as to what constitutes a micro, mini,

or mainframe computer.

2. Who (person, position, organization) has overall responsibility

for micros?

OIMS acts as ADP staff experts for NOAA. All adminstrati ve

and programmatic aspects of computers are handled by OIMS.

Purchase orders for microcomputers are reviewed; OIMS is

interested in who, what, why of the purchase order, not in

controlling or stopping the purchase of microcomputers.

3. What policies (implicit and explicit), regulations, directives are

operative with regard to micros?

ADP equipment must be justified and purchased under the

appropriate procurement regulations. OIMS has established an

Information System Guideline, which provides broad and

non-restrictive guidance.

It is NOAA policy to encourage and facilitate the development

of networks of computer systems. All microcomputers, word

processors, and other ADP equipment must be able to communicate.

NOAA organizations are directed to coordinate all requirements

with IMS4. IMS4 is a centralized software support center for the

management and acquisition of microcompter software among NOAA

elements. IMS2 has responsibility to review computer program

acquisition requests for computer equipment and/or services.

4. Does the degree of control exercised over micros reflect a

considered approach or one that's just evolved?

The degree of control appears to be an evolving one. OIMS

offers support on an incentive basis - if a user chooses to

disregard the Guidelines, OIMS will not offer support. A survey

to identify the types of microcomputers systems that have been
COMPLETED QUESTIONAIRES Page E-42

purchased was conducted and an inventory established on a

Micromation microcomputer using the Cromemco DBMS.

5. Are micros treated differently than other comparably priced

resources (e.g./ lab equipment)?

Microcomputers are treated in the same manner as other ADP

devices or resources of comparable cost. Similar review

procedures are followed in either case.

6. To what extent are the sequence and pace with which applications

are introduced, controlled by higher level management?

Higher level management established the "sequence" with

appropriate directives and guidance (that includes procedures)

documentation. But the management makes no attempt to interfere

with the user set pace.

B. Current environment/experience

1. What generic hardware and software are currently available and

supported by microcomputers.

Generic applications include: line editor, data entry,

report writer, word processing, electronic spreadsheet, and

telecommunications

.

Hardware is not specified by brand name, but generic

recommendations (from the Information Systems Guideline) include:

8 or 16 bit microprocssor

;

IEEE standard S-100 bus (if applicable);

memory "width" of 1 byte or 1 word;

memory size of 64K bytes minimum;

DMA transfers;

l/O ports for console, printer, and modem;

console display of 24 lines of 80 characters,

5x7 dot matrix or better, 96 ASCII

characters displayable, full 128 ASCII

character keyboard, cursor addressing, and

RS232C I/O interface.

2. VJhat telecommunications facilities are used to interconnect the

micros and what type of interconnections are made?

Telecommunications facilities are discussed in the

Information System Guidelines. All microcomputers that wish to

communicate do so using ASCII, Asynchronous and the 3780 protocol

that is IBM Binary Synchronous. CLINK is also used for
COMPLETED QUESTIONAIRES Page E-43

interfacing the raicromation microcomputers with the UNIVAC main

j frame facility.

3. What is the degree to which systems h/w and s/w are compatible/

transportable and can "talk" with one another?

NOAA has standardized on the CP/M operating system software

for microcomputers and for word processors. Common hardware is

j not required, but the hardware obtained must meet the operating

system requirements and accommodate the telecommunications

J compatible protocols. As to transportability of software, it is

occasionally necessary to tailor a CP/M compatible applications

software package to given hardware, because of the particular

I control codes built into the hardware. System hardware and

software are compatible but not transportable. It is NOAA policy

to assure communications compatibility among and between

microcomputers, word processors, and other ADP equipment. There

are many unique applications that are not transportable and don't

, need to be.

4. To what degree is use of off-the-shelf vs. specially developed

systems and software encouraged?

I The use of off-the-shelf software is encouraged. However,

OIMS does customize and debug the software if it is determined to

I be cost effective.

:j

5. What has been the method by which you have identified and

I evaluated microcomputer h/w and s/w? What have been the specific

features that you have looked for in specific application

programs?

All hardware and software is evlauated against the guidelines

established in the Information System Guidelines document. For

I application programs, OIMS tries to make certain that they are

I debugged, well documented, and user friendly.

6. What application packages are being used including utilities and

DBMS's?

NOAA currently supports Cromemco DBMS with DBR and Micro Data

Base Systems, Inc. CODASYL DBMS with networking MDBS III.

lj Application packages include: line editors, ED and EDIT; a

'I data entry package and report writer, DATASTAR; word processing,

WORDSTAR with MAIL-MERGE and SPELLSTAR; electronic spreadsheet,

CALCSTAR; and telecommunications, CLINK.

7. To what degree are development, procurement, support and

maintenance centralized?
COMPLETED QUEST lONAIRES Page E-44

Each organization within NOAA develops, procures and

maintains its own microcomputer systems.

There is no centralized acquisition office at NOAA. However,

OIMS will help users initiate procurement procedures. A

feasibility study to define the requirements and applications for

the microcomputer must be undertaken prior to acquiring a system.

This study is reviewed by OIMS. In addition, a checklist for

evaluating microcomputers was developed. A centralized purchasing

agreement with vendors and volume discounts are being negotiated.

Support for hardware and software listed in the Information

System Guidelines is offered.

8. What is the adequacy of vendor provided maintenance and support?

Vendor provided maintenance and support are more than

adequate. An increasing number of vendors as well as third party

organizations are providing maintenance and support.

9. What microcomputer operating system and languages are

used/preferred?

The suggested operating system should be compatible with CP/M

version 3.0 or above and satisfy FIPS PUBS 1 and 7. The preferred

languages are ALGOL, BASIC, C, COBOL, FORTH, FORTRAN, Pascal, and

PL/1.

10. Are outside (videotex) information utilities accessed? Which

ones? Extent of Use?

Several outside information utilites are accessed.

Agreements to use information utilites operated by the Department

of Defense and several universities have been set up. All

utilites are accessed through dial-up capabilities.

11. To what degree are programs and files shared among different

users?

The sharing of files among users is in the development stage.

The standardization of programs throughout NOAA organizations will

facilitate the compatibility of software. The sharing of programs

and files has evolved because of efficiency, rather than economic

reasons

.

12. What problems have you encountered or do you foresee with regard

to limitation on multiple uses of proprietary s/w? Is your agency

attempting to deal with this contractually?

No problems are foreseen. The original license is purchased

at the vendor established price. Succeeding copies are purchased

at discounted prices when available.
[COMPLETED QUESTIONAIRES Page E-45

j 13. What levels of growth do you foresee over the next five years with

j respect to numbers of users and types of users and numbers and

types of equipment for your organization?

NOAA has experienced a 5-7% average annual growth in

I communication costs over the past 10 years. This increase was not

j due to cost increases but an increase in usage. With this as a

I qualifier, OIMS feels that the number and use of microcomputers

' will increase at least that much.

C. People, Political, and Other Considerations

1. What provisions have you made with regard to staffing and training

to facilitate the introduction, acceptance, and use of micros?

A training and demonstration center is being developed. The

center will have several microcomputer systems available for users

to experiment with. An annual symposium is conducted to

familiarize NOAA staff with current microcomputer technology.

2. What unique personnel problems do you foresee with the infusion of

microcomputers?

No major personnel problems are anticipated. As with any ADP

system, a problem might arise if a person with specific expertise

leaves the organization.

3. What unique political/organizational problems do you foresee with

the growing availability and use of micros?

A blurring of management lines might occur. For example, the

inherent appeal of microcomputers might prompt higher level

managers to request access to data or to perform tasks that are

typically the reponsibility of lower levels of management.

Do you anticipate any major changes in the physical work

environment due to a major introduction of micros?

No major changes are for seen.

5. Who has been the most agressive in the introduction of micros

ADP or the user community?

The user community
COMPLETED QUESTlONAIRES Page E-46

6. How have the issues related to micros differed for ADP and the

user communi ty

?

No clear distinction is made between micrcomputers

,

minicomputers and main frame computers; therefore, the issures

that arise concerning microcomputers are really little different

than those concerning mini's and main frames, i.e., quantity

quality of requirements, functional needs, kind of applications

intended, population to be served, cost effectiveness of serving

the requirements of many users from a single capability or

allowing many users to each have a single capability.

D. Other Contacts/ References

1. Have any sources of inf ormation/expertise been particularly

valuable? If yes, which ones?

OIMS has found that seminars and symposiums provided by

Datapro and other educational organizations have been very

helpful. Microcomputer technology has been changing so rapidly,

it is important to continually obtain up to date information.

Microcomputer (and computer) related periodicals have also been

valuable sources of information.
COMPLETED QUESTlONAIRES Page E-47

ij State of New York

I

Interview with Frank Giannetti, manager of Marketing and Research, an

'* office within the Office of General Services

The Office of General Sevices (OGS) for the State of New York, is

concerned with the ADP equipment needs for all state agencies and

universities. The Marketing and Research office is responsible for

all matters pertaining to microcomputers.

I A. Policy, Management, and Administration

1. Does your agency distinguish among micros, minis, and large

j general purpose computers? If so, how?

j Yes, There is a distinction between microcomputers and other

j ADP equipment. The procurement and support for microcomputers is

different than that for mini- and general purpose computers.

I 2. Who (person, position, organization) has overall responsibility

j for micros?

The Manager of Marketing and Research has overall

responsibility for microcomputers.

3. What policies (implicit and explicit), regulations, directives are

operative with regard to micros?

The Marketing and Research office procures all microcomputers

for the State. State agencies and universities lease the

microcomputers from this office. As a general rule, no agency can

purchase a microcomputer, but exceptions are made.

4. Does the degree of control exercised over micros reflect a

considered approach or one that's just evolved?

Considered approach. OGS, in particular the Marketing and

Research office, has control over microcomputers for the State.

5. Are micros treated differently than other comparably priced

resources (e.g., lab equipment)?

There is no difference between microcomputers and other

comparably priced resources with respect to standards and

purchasing.
COMPLETED QUESTlONAIRES Page E-48

6. To what extent are the sequence and pace with which applications

are introduced, controlled by higher level management?

The sequence and pace is controlled by the individual

agencies. Each agency controls the application and authorization

of its microcomputer usage.

B, Current environment/experience

1. What generic hardware and software are currently available and

supported by microcomputers?

OGS does not get intimately involved with the applications of

the state agencies. Word processors with mail and spelling

capabilities, electronic spreadsheet, and DBMS packages have been

purchased

.

Multi vendor hardware to support educational applications, 5

r/4" and 8" disk, and multiuser systems are available.

2. What telecommunications facilities are used to interconnect the

micros and what type of interconnections are made?

Specific telecommunication facilities for the agencies is not

known. As the need to interconnect evolves, the marketing and

research staff will evaluate and assist in developing appropriate

facilities

.

3. What is the degree to which systems h/w and s/w are compatible/

transportable and can "talk" with one another?

The 8", single density floppy disks can be interchanged

between systems.

4. To what degree is use of off-the-shelf vs. specially developed

systems and software encouraged?

Off-the-shelf software packages are highly encouraged.

5. What has been the method by which you have identified and

evaluated microcomputer h/w and s/w? What have been the specific

features that you have looked for in specific application

programs?

Hardware and software are selected from the multivendor

contracts and associated products list. A request for proposal

(RFP) is being developed for the procurement of CP/M software

packages. The members of the Marketing and Research staff
COMPLETED QUESTIONAIRES Page E-49

(microcomputer unit) determine the RFP specifications.

Agency users submit a Needs Assessment form to the Marketing

and Research staff, who identify, evaluate, and recommend hardware

and software products. Information about the user, his needs, and

microcomputer system are maintained, in order to continue to

support the user.

6. What application packages are being used including utilities and

DBMS's?

No specific packages were mentioned. (See Bl )

.

7. To what degree are development, procurement, support and

maintenance centralized?

Procurement, support and maintenance for the State of New

York is centralized and handled by OSG (Procurement office or the

Marketing and Research office). Maintenance is included as part

of the vendor contract and handled by OSG.

The requirement and authorization for the procurement of

microcomputers is at an agency level. Approval at the Agency

level must be obtained to lease a microcomputer from OSG. State

agencies cannot buy microcomputers directly from vendors.

8. What is the adequacy of vendor provided maintenance and support?

Vendor support and maintenance has not been sufficently

tested yet. Thus far, vendors have been cooperative and have

responded quickly.

9. What microcomputer operating system and languages are

used/pref erred?

CP/M and MP/M are the preferred operating systems.

10. Are outside (videotex) information utilities accessed? Which

ones? Extent of Use?

The use of outside information utilities is not known. It is

dependant on the agency's application requirements and is not

coordinated through this office.

11. To what degree are programs and files shared among different

users?

The amount of program and file sharing is not known. It is

not a concern of this office, but depedant on the agency and its

applications

.
COMPLETED QUEST lONAIRES Page E-50

12. What problems have you encountered or do you foresee with regard

to limitation on multiple uses of proprietary s/w? Is your agency

attempting to deal with this contractually?

All proprietary software is licensed. OSG has no control

over the duplication of software by the user. But, support will

only be provided to the individual who has purchased the package

(serial numbers are checked in order to identify a 'legal' owner).

13. What levels of growth do you foresee over the next five years with

respect to numbers of users and types of users and numbers and

types of equipment for your organization?

Question not addressed.

C. People, Political, and Other Considerations

1. What provisions have you made with regard to staffing and training

to facilitate the introduction, acceptance, and use of micros?

To facilitate the introduction and use of microcomputers, the

Marketing and Research office participates in business shows.

Vendors are invited to show and discuss their products. A

demonstration center has been established to demonstrate hardware

and software, and provide users an opportunity to try out the

various hardware and software packages.

The Marketing and Research staff is available to answer

users' questions, and provide advice and training. Additional

activities include: a problem log with solutions, telephone

hotline, a newsletter, a user group, and formal visits to agency

user sites.

2. What unique personnel problems do you foresee with the infusion of

microcomputers?

The staff must include people to market, 'hack', and answer

questions related to microcomputers in order to support users

needs

.

3. What unique political/organizational problems do you foresee with

the growing availability and use of micros?

Not really able to answer this question, but microcomputers

(with its support and staff) must compete with that of traditional

ADP systems.
COMPLETED QUEST lONAI RES Page E-51

4. Do you anticipate any major changes in the physical work

environment due to a major introduction of micros?

This is not a concern of this office, but of the user's

agency.

5. Who has been the most agressive in the introduction of micros

ADP or the user community?

The ADP community and state university users have been the

most agressive in the introduction of microcomputers. The

Marketing and Research staff have been actively marketing and

demonstrating the capabilities of microcomputers,

6. How have the issues related to micros differed for ADP and the

user community?

Question not addressed.

D. Other Contacts/ References

' 1. Have any sources of information/expertise been particularly

valuable? If yes, which ones?

Vendors, computer stores, and Microcomputer (business) shows

have been excellent sources.
COMPLETED QUESTIONAIRES Page E-52

Smithsonian Institution

Interview with Mr. Reginald Creighton, Senior Systems Analyst, Office

of Information Resource Management,

The Office of Information Resource Management (OIRM) is responsible

for the management of ADP equipment within the Smithsonian Institute.

A. Policy, Management, and Administration

1. Does your agency distinguish among micros, minis, and large

general purpose computers? If so, how?

Yes, The Agency does make a distinction between

microcomputers, minicomputers and large general purpose computers.

Micrcomputers are funded by research projects which may benefit

from automated procedures.

2. Who (person, position, organization) has overall responsibility

for micros?

The specifications for microcomputer purchases are reviewed

by the OIRM.

3. What policies (implicit and explicit), regulations, directives are

operative with regard to micros?

At this time, there are no directives policies regarding

microcomputers. The microcomputer defacto standards are

encouraged (CP/M, Z80, S-100 bus, 8" floppy disk).

4. Does the degree of control exercised over micros reflect a

considered approach or one that's just evolved?

Considered approach, although control over microcomputers is

limited.

5. Are micros treated differently than other comparably priced

resources (e.g., lab equipment)?

Question not addressed.

6. To what extent are the sequence and pace with which applications

are introduced, controlled by higher level management?

The sequence and pace is controlled by the individual

scientist or researcher.
COMPLETED QUESTIONAIRES Page E-53

B. Current environment/ experience

1. What generic hardware and software are currently available and

supported by microcomputers?

Generic applications include: word processing, text editing,

data entry, file management, bibliographies, and manuscript

preparation.

The hardware consists of several different microcomputer

systems: Dynabyte, Industrial microcomputer system, California

computer systems, Compupro, Teletek/Rodix, Osbournes, plus several

SYM-1 computers used for laboratory automation. Each

microcomputer system has two floppy disks.

2. What telecommunications facilities are used to interconnect the

micros and what type of interconnections are made?

Software packages, such as Modem 7, enable the microcomputers

'to communicate with the mainframe computer via the telephone

lines. Communication between microcomputers is accomplished with

the exchange of floppy disks. A local area network (LAN) called

SINET interlinks many of the microcomputers.

3. What is the degree to which systems h/w and s/w are compatible/

transportable and can "talk" with one another?

High degree of compatible and transportable hardware and

software has been achieved due to the use of defacto standards.

4. To what degree is use of off-the-shelf vs. specially developed

systems and software encouraged?

The use of off-the-self systems and software is highly

encouraged

.

What has been the method by which you have identified and

evaluated microcomputer h/w and s/w? What have been the specific

features that you have looked for in specific application

programs?

As hardware and software are identified, a feature analysis

is performed.

6. What application packages are being used including utilities and

DBMS's?

Software packages being used support the applications above

(Bl) and include: WORDSTAR, FMS80, dBASEII, and REMOTE80 or Modem

7.
COMPLETED QUESTIONAIRES Page E-54

7. To what degree are development, procurement, support and

maintenance centralized?

Procurement and support of microcomputers is centralized.

The OIRM has overall responsibility for these functions.

Maintenance is part of the procurement contract.

8. What is the adequacy of vendor provided maintenance and support?

Vendor support and maintenance seem adequate.

9. What microcomputer operating system and languages are

used/pref erred?

The preferred operating system and language are CP/M and

BASIC.

10. Are outside (videotex) information utilities accessed? Which

ones? Extent of Use?

No outside information utilities are being accessed.

11. To what degree are programs and files shared among different

users?

Programs are shared among users, but files are not.

12. What problems have you encountered or do you foresee with regard

to limitation on multiple uses of proprietary s/w? Is your agency

attempting to deal with this contractually?

A license is obtained for all proprietary software.

13. What levels of growth do you foresee over the next five years with

respect to numbers of users and types of users and numbers and

types of equipment for your organization?

A sizeable growth in microcomputer procurement and use is

anticipated

.

C. People, Political, and Other Considerations

1. What provisions have you made with regard to staffing and training

to facilitate the introduction, acceptance, and use of micros?
COMPLETED QUESTIONAIRES Page E-55

The OIRM provides written procedures and assistance to

I microcomputer users. Training is provided as part of the

I microcomputer's procurement contract.

2. What unique personnel problems do you foresee with the infusion of

microcomputers?

An increased training requirement is foreseen.

3. What unique political/organizational problems do you foresee with

the growing availability and use of micros?

Question not addressed.

4. Do you anticipate any major changes in the physical work

environment due to a major introduction of micros?

Question not addressed.

5. Who has been the most agressive in the introduction of micros - ADP or the user community?

The user community has been most agressive.

6. How have the issues related to micros differed for ADP and the

user community?

The user community views the microcomputer as a tool in

accomplishing its job. The ADP community is concerned with the

procurement, support, maintenance, etc. of these tools.

D. Other Contacts/ References

1. Have any sources of inf ormation/expertise been particularly

valuable? If yes, which ones?

Question not addressed.

I
COMPLETED QUESTlONAIRES Page E-56

Walter Reed Army Institute of Research

Interview with LTC Rodney Edge, Director of the Division of Biometrics

(DOB) at the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research.

The Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR) is part of the U.S.

Army Medical Research and Development Command. The DOB is concerned

with establishing and managing the policy and procedures for ADP

acquitition and use within the WRAIR.

A. Policy, Management, and Administration

1. Does your agency distinguish among micros, minis, and large

general purpose computers? If so, how?

No distinction is made between microcomputers, minicomputers,

- and large general purpose computers. We must obtain approval from

higher headquarters before purchasing any computer.

2. Who (person, position, organization) has overall

for micros?

The Division of Biometrics (DOB) has overall

for computers and data processing within WRAIR.

3. What policies (implicit and explicit), regulations, directives are

operative with regard to micros?

Microcomputers must be justified and purchased in accordance

with appropriate Army procurement regulations. The level of

justification required (for microcomputers) is not as extensive as

for other more costly ADP equipment

.

The Advance System Working Group has been established to

develop guidance, policy, and documentation for microcomputers

within WRAIR. To encourage the use and to familiarize new users

with the microcomputer systems, game playing is allowed during

off-duty hours.

4. Does the degree of control exercised over micros reflect a

considered approach or one that's just evolved?

Evolved approach. DOB is constantly upgrading its plans for

microcomputers. A recently completed five year plan has been

updated to include the future goals for microcomputers.

responsibility

responsibility

5. Are micros treated differently than other comparably priced

resources (e.g., lab equipment)?
COMPLETED QUESTIONAIRES Page E-57

Yes, different Army regulations apply to microcomputers than

other comparably priced resources. The programmabili ty and

functionality differences make microcomputers unique.

6. To what extent are the sequence and pace with which applications

are introduced, controlled by higher level management?

There is little control from higher level management

concerning the sequence and pace with which applaictions are

introduced. DOB would like to install more microcomputers, but

due to its limited staff cannot cope with a faster paced

implementation schedule.

B. Current environment/experience

1. What generic hardware and software are currently available and

supported by microcomputers?

Generic applications range from word processing, electronic

spread sheets, data entry, editing, verification, tabulation, and

a record keeping system; to medical research applications such as

game playing to determine stimulus response time for the

neurologically impaired.

Hardware includes approximately $150,000 worth of Apple

computers and related equipment (printers, plotters, etc.), and

several TRS-80s, as well as a half dozen other brands.

What telecommunications facilities are used to interconnect the

micros and what type of interconnections are made?

All microcomputers must use asynchronous communications

protocol. A DEC VAX 11/780 is used as a file server to

interconnect and communicate between microcomputers. One dial-out

modem and 20 dial-in modems are available. Telecommunication

software is provided with the ACCESS III terminal program for

Apple computers and LCOMM for TRS-BOs. The TRS-BOs run the LDOS

operating system.

What is the degree to which systems h/w and s/w are compatible/

transportable and can "talk" with one another?

All microcomputers, terminals, and word processors are

compatible and can talk with each other through the VAX.

To what degree is use of off-the-shelf vs. specially developed

systems and software encouraged?

I
COMPLETED QUESTIONAIRES Page E-58

The use of off-the-self packages are encouraged. Software

packages are developed (in-house) to meet specialized application

requirements

.

5. What has been the method by which you have identified and

evaluated microcomputer h/w and s/w? What have been the specific

features that you have looked for in specific application

programs?

Hardware and software are evaluated with respect to the

application's requirements / environment, and their compatibility

with existing systems.

6. What application packages are being used including utilities and

DBMS's?

Application packages include: VisiCalc, Apple Writer, Apple

Access, Script, Business Graphics, PFS for Apple, PFS Report, PFS

Profile Data Saver, PIK, and Mail List Manager. Packages being

obtained include: Word juggler. Record Processing Services (RPS),

Quick File, Transfer, Wordstar, Context MBA, Screen Director, Data

Manager, Data Base, Data Reporter, and DBase II

7. To what degree are development, procurement, support and

maintenance centralized?

All microcomputer procurement is centralized through this

office. Maintenance contracts for the Apple computers and other

machines are coordinated through the command at Fort Dietrick.

Although a maintenance contract exists, it is sometimes necessary

to repair equipment in-house, e.g. it is not always possible to

have a maintenance contract on every piece of equipment.

8. What is the adequacy of vendor provided maintenance and support?

WRAIR has a maintenance contract for its microcomputers. The

level of vendor support has been good. Acquiring a maintenance

contract at the time of equipment purchase is recommended.

9. What microcomputer operating system and languages are

used/preferred?

Microcomputer languages include: BASIC, FORTRAN, Pascal, and

COBOL. Programming is sometimes done in assembly language (due to

speed requirements).

10. Are outside (videotex) information utilities accessed? Which

ones? Extent of Use?
COMPLETED QUESTIONAIRES Page E-59

There is very little use of outside information utilities.

11. To what degree are programs and files shared among different

users?

Files are shared openly among users.

12. What problems have you encountered or do you foresee with regard

to limitation on multiple uses of proprietary s/w? Is your agency

attempting to deal with this contractually?

WRAIR is concerned that proprietary software is handled

correctly. We buy the software we use, e.g., we do not knowingly

use illegally copied software.

13. What levels of growth do you foresee over the next five years with

respect to numbers of users and types of users and numbers and

types of equipment for your organization?

The use of microcomputers will continue to increase and

eventually, there will probably be one in every laboratory.

People, Political, and Other Considerations

1. What provisions have you made with regard to staffing and training

to facilitate the introduction, acceptance, and use of micros?

Microcomputer classes are provided periodically and are

incorporated into physician training programs. Game playing is

encouraged to familiarize users with the microcomputers. Staff

members are available to answer questions.

2. What unique personnel problems do you foresee with the infusion of

microcomputers?

The main problem is hiring and keeping qualified personnel.

The pay/grade structure hinders WRAIR from offering a competitive

salary to experienced personnel.

3. What unique political/organizational problems do you foresee with

the growing availability and use of micros?

There is great potential to make mistakes due to the

popularity, ease of justification, and the rapidly changing

technology.
COMPLETED QUESTIONAIRES Page E-60

4. Do you anticipate any major changes in the physical work

environment due to a major introduction of micros?

Yes. Changes in office space, lab layout, and the use of

communication lines are anticipated.

5. Who has been the most agressive in the introduction of micros - ADP or the user community?

Both the users and ADP management have been equally

agressive

.

6. How have the issues related to micros differed for ADP and the

user community?

The users want a tool to do the job, whereas, ADP personnel

are concerned with cost, standards, and maintenance of

microcomputers

.

D. Other Contacts/ References

1. Have any sources of information/expertise been particularly

valuable? If yes, which ones?

Journals, magazines, local computer stores, and local universities

are valuable sources of information.
NBS-1 14A (REV. 2-8C) U.S. DEPT. OP COMM. 1. PUBLICATION OR 2. Performing Orjan. Report No. 3. Publication Date BIBLIOGRAPHIC DATA

REPORT NO.

SHEET (See instruciions) NBS SP 500-102 June 1983

4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE ^ ^ c j x u i Computer Science and Technology

Microcomputers: A Review of Federal Agency Experiences

5. AUTHOR(S)

Dennis Gilbert, Elizabeth Parker, Lynne Rosenthal

6. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION (If joint or other than NBS. see instructions)

NATIONAL BUREAU OF STANDARDS

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20234

7. Contract/Grant No.

8. Type of Report & Period Covered

Fi nal

9. SPONSORING ORGANIZATION NAME AND COMPLETE ADDRESS (Street. City. State. ZIP)

Same

10. SUPPLEMENTARY NOTES

Library of Congress Catalog Card Number :83-600545

I I Document describes a computer program; SF-185, -FlPS Software Summary, is attached.

11. ABSTRACT (A 200-word or less factual summary of most si gnificant information. If document includes a significant

bi bl iography or literature survey, mention it here)

This document presents the results of a recent study which reviewed Federal agency

experience with microcomputers during the period of August 1982 - January 1983.

Its intended audience are all those who are interested in microcomputer-based

technology and want to benefit from the current Federal experience. Interviews

conducted with the Federal agencies are presented in detail, summarized, and

tabulated. Related management and technical issues are identified and discussed.

The study found that many Federal users are eagerly looking for guidance in selecting

and using microcomputer systems. Incentive based support to end users appears to

be a major tool available to agencies for managing the new technology. Emphasis is

being placed on off-the-shelf software packages. Appendices of this document provide

the reader with an initial road map to sources of information.

12. KEY WORDS (Six to twelve entries; alphabetical order; capitalize only proper names; and separate key words by semicolons)

Federal agency microcomputer experience; microcomouter experience; microcomputer

management issues:, microcomputer teciinical considerations.

13. AVAILABILITY

fxl Unlimited

I I For Official Distribution. Do Not Release to NTIS

[X] Order From Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C.

20402.

Order From National Technical Information Service (NTIS), Springfield, VA. 22161

14. NO. OF

PRINTED PAGES

146

15. Price

USCOMM-DC 6043-P80

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