I: Introduction
Networked environment
Many systems developments are taking place within networked environments. The networks tie together the central (proprietary or open) systems with distributed processing servers and user workstations through a campus backbone of cable. In a higher education environment, these networks often serve student workstations in the labs from servers located in central or distributed environments. Networks underscore the critical issues related to expanded access to information for faculty, staff, and students with a need to know. In the traditional data processing environment, information was considered to be departmental, and access was restricted to very few people. With the increased recognition of the knowledge worker and the need to share information, the focus is on expanding access to many more people. As the tools for the remote office continue to develop, access from off-campus locations will continue to grow, via standard telephone communications or other more effective means.
BACK TO THE TEXT