SIM Competition Papers: Incorporating Data Dictionary/Directory and Team Approaches into the Systems Development Process

Between late 1977 and April 1979 the State University of New York at Albany was able to successfully move from completely manual systems to a very contemporary and integrated online Financial and Accounting Management Information System (FAMIS). The development of FAMIS involved the application of innovative organizational and technological approaches which contributed significantly to the success of the project. For example, the University utilized a systems, user, and management team in its design of FAMIS. Also, the technological approach involved use of a Dictionary/Directory Facility (DDF) developed by the University's Administrative Systems group. The use of the DDF proved to reduce significantly the amount of conventional computer programming required to develop FAMIS. Furthermore, it proved to be a valuable aid in facilitating systems, and user and management interaction.