ABSTRACT
Client/server computing—and the need for distributed end-user computing and high-powered workstations that support systems integration and reengineering—have become major management and operational issues for many information management and technology (IM&T) executives. This chapter provides a perspective and overview of some of the issues, drivers, and costs of integrating, migrating, and developing systems in the client/server environment. It explores the potential and implications of the client/server environment and its role in the systems integration process, and provides a useful definition that places the client/server environment in context. The concepts and principles of openness are important to the client/server integration strategy. The chapter discusses the rationale for adopting the client/server computing environment and systems integration strategy. There is a financial rationale that client/servers are less expensive to acquire, maintain and develop applications for, as they are more open and less dependent on traditional IM&T systems development methodologies and proprietary operating systems.
