End-User Computing (EUC) Explained

End-User Computing (EUC) Defined

• Involves computer systems and platforms designed for non-programmers (End-Users)
• Enables the creation of working applications and outputs
• Uses tools and techniques to involve people with minimal programming experience in computing systems development
• Allows end-users to control their computing environment independently
• Includes all computer use by end-users for whom programmers develop applications
• Encompasses all computing activities not directly related to development

Types of EUC Resources

• Desktop and Laptop Computers: Common hardware, customisable based on user needs
• Desktop Operating Systems and Applications: Software aspect, either pre-packaged or sold/developed separately
• Smartphones and Wearables: Mobile hardware platforms with associated software (apps and widgets)
• Mobile, Web, and Cloud Applications: Prioritizes mobility and connectivity, typically offered as services
• Virtual Desktops and Applications: Enhances mobility and connectivity through online, cloud-based solutions, reducing the need for specific hardware and software, exemplified by virtual workplace suites like Microsoft Office 365

End-User Development (EUD)

• A practice within EUC where end-users develop information systems with IT support
• Requires providing end-users with computing facilities like workstations, network access, and training tools

Benefits of EUC and EUD

• Enhanced productivity: Increases productivity through information systems and process automation
• Empowerment of end-users: Empowers members by enabling them to create system solutions
• Streamlined processes: Application development improves/revises business processes for efficiency
• Reduced reliance on DP professionals: Equipping end-users with software training minimizes the need for IT resources
• User-friendly Systems: Directly involved end-users develop simpler, responsive systems
• Addresses implementation challenges: Users develop their own systems eliminating implementation issues

Risks Associated with EUC

• Errors in Analysis: Inadequate training leads to questionable software quality because end-users may misanalyze data or systems
• Lack of Documentation: Informal analysis and design result in inadequate documentation, complicating maintenance
• Faulty Models: Decision Support Systems (DSS) rely on end-user-created corporate models with potential errors. Studies suggest 38% of spreadsheets may have errors
• Security and Piracy Issues: Lack of security measures and access to computing assets may expose data to manipulation or theft

Classes of End-User Computing (EUC) Tools

• Application Packages: Commercially marketed software that supports standard business functions
  • Examples: Payroll, ledgers, scheduling, inventory control.
  • often customizable through parameters
  • Example: Microsoft Office Suite
• Fourth-Generation Programming Languages: Programming languages that empower end-users to create computing solutions and consolidate them into small information systems
  • Often can run on most computer types
  • Example: SQL query language for database management.

End-User System Tools

• Text and Multimedia Handling: Includes word processing, desktop publishing, web-publishing, presentation software, document/workflow management systems
• Data Handling: Includes spreadsheets, statistical/decision support packages, and databases
• Communication: Includes e-mail, VoIP, fax, WAP, pagers
• Office Automation: Includes diary management, notebooks, directories, project management, and personal digital assistants, along with Bluetooth
• Group Systems/Computer Supported Collaborative Work: Includes teleconferencing and virtual workspaces/desktops
• Graphic Design: Computer-aided design and graphic software
• Knowledge Management: Includes expert systems, data mining, and information retrieval

Office Automation

• Refers to integrated office requirements within an organization
• Includes word processing, data filing, diary management, and communications
• Aims to streamline functions and reduce additional workforce

Office Information System (OIS) Defined

• A system that uses software, hardware, and networking to improve workflow and communication
• Supports business activities for management and workforce efficiency
• Evolves and automates to increase flexibility and effectiveness

Abilities of an OIS

• Facilitates electronic communication through e-mail and instant messaging
• Manages audio-video communication via telephony and teleconferencing systems
• Facilitates record management using databases or data servers
• Automates business processes to reduce manpower requirements
• Provides EUC to enhance employee efficiency

Tools Available via Office Automation and OIS

• Functions: Operations performed via function keys like Cut, Copy, Paste, etc
• Software Packages: Interacting bundled applications that provide specific functionality, like Microsoft Office Suite and Google Docs
• Process Software: Individual or bundled software offering specific capabilities, like Autodesk’s AutoCAD
• Word Processing: Software for developing and formatting textual documents, exemplified by Notepad and Microsoft Word
• Electronic Spreadsheet: Software for accounting and financial tasks that maintains, manipulates, and calculates numerical data, like Microsoft Excel
• Database Management: Enables organized electronic information/file storage, like Microsoft Access and MySQL
• Desktop Publishing: Laying out text/graphics on a page, blurring distiction between word processing software
• Graphics Design: Creating charts/graphs from spreadsheets or user input. An example is Microsoft PowerPoint
• Project Management: Identifying tasks, resources, and timelines, exemplified by project management software
• Calendar: Scheduling and project time management. Increasingly integrated over platforms and systems
• Electronic Communication: Software lets users send info, exemplified by Microsoft Outlook