Advanced distributed processing with focus and PC/focus: Planning considerations and phased implementation

Abstract

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A distributed data system that included shared data resident in a mainframe/PC local area network environment was successfully introduced to nontechnical end-users. The system provided the end-user with the control of responsiveness and reliability inherent in local application processing, along with the back-up support and archival storage/retrieval provided by a mainframe computer. A semaphore-driven locking scheme ensured referential data integrity across the shared data system, and HASP protocols provided fast and reliable file transfer capability. The project demonstrates that distributed methods can be applied to information systems to increase their efficiency and productivity. When the resources are on hand for such a system, planning and a phased approach to the appropriate implementation can bring success even in an end-user environment. 11 refs., 2 figs.