End-User Computing (EUC) Overview

End-User Computing (EUC) Explained

• EUC involves computer systems and platforms designed for non-programmers (end-users).
• End-users can create working applications and outputs using these computer systems.
• EUC encompasses all computer uses by end-users for tasks programmers develop.
• All computing, not related to development, is considered EUC.

Types of EUC

• Desktop and Laptop Computers which are customizable to user specifications.
• Desktop Operating Systems and Applications that can be packaged with an OS or sold separately; examples include Windows System and Administrator Tools, Microsoft Office, and Adobe Master Collection.
• Smartphones and Wearables focus on mobile hardware platforms and software, like apps and widgets.
• Mobile, Web, and Cloud Applications prioritize mobility and connectivity, often as a service; examples include email, instant messaging, and cloud storage.
• Virtual Desktops and Applications enhance mobility through cloud-based computing, which eliminates specific hardware/software needs; examples include suites like Microsoft Office 365.

End-User Development (EUD) Defined

• EUD involves end-users developing their own information systems, often supported by IT professionals.
• End-users need access to computing facilities, networks, and resources like internet, data access, and training.

Benefits of EUC and EUD

• Increased productivity for professional and white-collar workers via streamlined processes and automation.
• Empowered end-users due to created information system solutions.
• Reduction/elimination of business process steps by involving end-users in application development.
• Overcoming shortages of DP professionals by equipping end-users with training, reducing the need for IT resources.
• Provision of user-friendly and responsive systems, leveraging direct end-user involvement for simple solutions.
• Overcoming implementation problems by transferring application development to users.

Risks of EUC

• Errors in analysis due to poorly trained end-users who may incorrectly analyze data. Resulting software may be of questionable quality.
• Lack of documentation because end-users often lack formal analysis and design training, thus making maintenance difficult.
• Faulty Models in Decision Support Systems (DSS) using end-user-developed spreadsheets, where studies suggest up to 38% may contain errors, impacting strategic decision-making.
• Possible Security/Piracy Issues since end-user software might lack security measures, potentially risking data manipulation or theft.

End-User Computing Tools

• Application Packages which are pre-written, commercially available software for functions like payroll, ledgers, and inventory; customizable, and exemplified by the Microsoft Office Suite.
• Fourth-Generation Programming Languages allow end-users to develop computing solutions and consolidate them into small systems; an example is SQL.

End-User System Tools

• Text and Multimedia Handling tools for word processing, desktop publishing, presentation software, and document/workflow management.
• Data Handling Tools such as spreadsheets, statistical packages, decision support systems, and databases.
• Communication Tools like email, VoIP, fax, WAP, and pagers.
• Office Automation Tools including diary management, notebooks, directories, and personal digital assistants.
• Group Systems / Computer Supported Collaborative Work tools used for teleconferencing and virtual workspaces.
• Graphic Design tools and computer-aided design software.
• Knowledge Management tools like expert systems, data mining, and information retrieval.

Office Automation Explained

• Office automation integrates basic office needs like word processing, filing, diary management, and communication.
• It aims to streamline functions, reducing the need for extra staff, equipment, or resources.

Office Information System (OIS)

• Improves workflow and communication for office workers using software, hardware, and networking.
• OIS supports business office activities for efficient job management.
• It can evolve and automate to enhance flexibility and effectiveness.
• OIS can also facilitate electronic communication, manage audio/video, manage records, automate business tasks, and enhance end-user efficiency.

Applications of Office Automation Tools

• Functions such as cut, copy, delete, move, search, calculate, and print activated via keys.
• Software Packages bundled for tasks like creating documents, spreadsheets, databases, and presentations (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite, Google Docs).
• Process Software provides capabilities like database management and computer-aided design (e.g., Autodesk’s AutoCAD).
• Word Processing software is used to create, format, and print documents electronically (e.g., Notepad, Microsoft Word).
• Electronic Spreadsheets are designed for accounting and financial tasks, to maintain and calculate numerical data (e.g., Microsoft Excel).
• Database Management software helps in electronic information storage, rearranging data items, and enabling searches (e.g., Microsoft Access, MySQL).
• Desktop Publishing software is used for text, graphics, and images layout, blurring the lines with advanced word processing.
• Graphics Design software enables creating charts and graphs from data or direct input (e.g., Microsoft PowerPoint, Adobe Photoshop).
• Project Management software manages project tasks, tracks progress, and reports project information.
• Calendar Software schedules events with features like "to-do" lists and reminders.
• Electronic Communication software enables users to send/receive info via communication links like email and instant messaging (e.g., Microsoft Outlook).