Understanding End-User Computing (EUC)

End-User Computing (EUC) Defined

• EUC involves computer systems and platforms designed for non-programmers (End-Users).
• It enables users to create working applications and outputs.
• EUC integrates people without programming backgrounds into computing systems development, allowing them to control their computing environment.
• It encompasses all uses of computers by end-users for tasks other than development.

Types of EUC

• Desktop and Laptop Computers: Common hardware solutions customizable for specific user needs.
• Desktop Operating Systems and Applications: Software aspects that may come packaged or sold separately, like Windows System and Administrator Tools.
• Smartphones and Wearables: Mobile hardware platforms (smartphones, tablets, smartwatches) with related apps and widgets.
• Mobile, Web, and Cloud Applications: Prioritize mobility and connectivity as services, like e-mail, instant messaging, and cloud storage.
• Virtual Desktops and Applications: Cloud-based computing that eliminates hardware needs, promoting the "Bring Your Own Device" (BYOD) trend, such as Microsoft Office 365.

End-User Development (EUD) Defined

• EUD is an EUC practice where end-users develop their information systems, supported by IT professionals.
• End-users gain access to facilities, resources, and training.

Benefits of End-User Computing

• Enhanced productivity via streamlined processes and automation.
• Empowerment of end-users to create their system solutions.
• Reduction/Elimination of unnecessary steps in business processes through end-user involvement.
• Overcoming shortages of DP professionals via software training for end-users.
• User-friendly and responsive systems due to direct end-user involvement.

Risks of End-User Computing

• Errors in analysis due to poorly trained end-users.
• Lack of documentation due to a lack of formal training.
• Faulty Models where Decision Support Systems (DSS) rely on corporate models developed by end-users, recent research indicates that as many as 38% of these spreadsheets may contain errors.
• Possible Security/Piracy Issues, organization data may be at risk of being manipulated and/or stolen.

End-User Computing Tools

• Application Packages: Pre-written, customizable software for business functions like payroll, ledgers, scheduling and inventory, for example Microsoft Office Suite.
• Fourth-Generation Programming Languages: Languages allowing end-users to develop and consolidate computing solutions, like SQL for managing databases.

End-User Systems Tools

• Text and Multimedia Handling Tools: Word processing, desktop publishing, presentation software, document management.
• Data Handling Tools: Spreadsheets, statistical packages, decision support systems, databases.
• Communication Tools: E-mail, VoIP, fax, WAP, pagers.
• Office Automation Tools: Diary management, electronic notebooks, directories, project management tools.
• Group Systems / Computer Supported Collaborative Work: Teleconferencing, virtual workspaces/desktops.
• Graphic Design: Graphic software, computer-aided design.
• Knowledge Management: Expert systems, data mining, information retrieval.

Office Automation (OA) Defined

• It is the complete integration of basic office requirements for a department.
• Requirements include word processing, electronic data filing, diary management, and communications.
• Aims to organize functions without needing separate actions or additional resources.

Office Information System (OIS) Defined

• This is a system that uses software, hardware, and networking.
• Goal is to improve workflow and communication.
• It supports business activities to allow management and workforce efficiency.
• Systems can evolve and become automated, increasing flexibility and effectiveness.

Capabilities of an OIS

• Facilitates electronic communication through e-mail and messaging.
• Manages audio-video communication via telephony, teleconferencing, or prompt directories.
• Record management through databases and data servers.
• Automates business processes to reduce manpower.
• Provides EUC to enhance employee efficiency further.

Applications of Office Automation

• Functions: Actions performed via function keys (Cut, Copy, Delete, etc.).
• Software Packages: Bundled applications for tasks like document creation (Microsoft Office, Google Docs).
• Process Software: Individual or bundled software for specific capabilities (Autodesk's AutoCAD).
• Word Processing: Software for textual documents (Notepad, Microsoft Word).
• Electronic Spreadsheet: Software for accounting and financial tasks (Microsoft Excel).
• Database Management: Organized electronic storage (Microsoft Access, MySQL).
• Desktop Publishing: Laying out text, graphics and pictures onto a page.
• Graphics Design: Creating charts/graphs (Microsoft PowerPoint, Adobe Photoshop).
• Project Management: Identifying tasks and resources.
• Calendar: Scheduling events.
• Electronic Communication: Sending information via networks (Microsoft Outlook).