The Weapon Systems Management Concept and Electronic Data Processing

This paper is concerned with the lack of significant progress in the application of electronic computers for expanding the scope of systems of information flow. The weapon systems management concept, and more particularly its civilian counterpart the product mission concept, is presented as a possible frame of reference for top management and systems analysts to use in long-range planning. The functions necessary for successful product mission accomplishment are outlined and the role of systems analysts in the performance of these functions is emphasized. The feasibility of long-range planning for systems of information flow without reference to existing applications or hardware is also discussed.