ABSTRACT
Prior to the development of second generation programming tools, computing in MIs was a highly centralised function, operated with a control mentality, both from an operational and an audit viewpoint. Information was regarded as power and those managers who controlled the flow of information had the ability to shape policy and processes. One early Chief of Management Services in FAO was so powerful that his word alone could condemn any project to oblivion, particularly if it threatened his ability to decide on the form and content of the final product. Auditors were also highly cautious, allowing only limited access to databases less they were corrupted by ignorant or unauthorised users. Control of this type was easy when all computer input and output had to be hard coded in a programming language. Word processing was also cumbersome and there were no decentralised servers that could connect a network of machines. Thus again, the client was dependent on central services for moving information around the system.
