Benefits of End-User Computing
One reason end-user computing has increased so significantly is that it offers the following advantages:
• User creation, control and implementation. Accountants and other end users, rather than the information systems department, control the development process. They decide what information needs are important and if a system should be developed. The sense of ownership that comes with end-user development helps users develop better systems.
• Systems that meet user needs. When end users develop their own systems, the systems are more likely to meet the user’s needs. Users also can discover flaws that the systems people would not catch. The user-analyst-programmer communication problems inherent in traditional program development are avoided
• Timeliness. Much of the lengthy delay inherent in the traditional systems development process is avoided, such as expensive and time-consuming cost/benefit analysis, detailed requirements definitions, and the inevitable delays and red tape inherent in the approval process.
• Freeing up systems resources. The more information needs users can meet, the more time the information systems department can spend on other information and maintenance activities. This reduces both and the invisible backlog of systems development projects.
• Versatility and ease of use. Most end-user computing software is easy to understand and use. Users can change the information they produce or modify their application anytime their requirements change. With a laptop computer, work can be completed at home, on a plane, or almost anywhere.