An alternative to the centralized model is the concept of distributed data processing (DDP). The topic of DDP is quite broad, touching on such related topics as end-user computing, commercial software, net- working, and office automation. Simply stated, DDP involves reorganizing the IT function into small in- formation processing units (IPUs) that are distributed to end users and placed under their control. IPUs may be distributed according to business function, geographic location, or both. Any or all of the IT activ- ities represented in Figure 1-10 may be distributed. Figure 1-11 shows a possible new organizational structure following the distribution of all data processing tasks to the end-user areas.