8-2
System component
8-2-1 System configuration
Processing modes for information systems
Computer system
1
Chapter 8
An “information system” is a system that uses a computer to advance
work activities.
Information systems can be categorized according to the type of computer
used or processing mode. When developing systems, it is necessary to select a system configuration that matches its purpose.
The processing modes for information systems are summarized below.
(1)Centralized processing
“Centralized processing” is a processing mode in which all processing is
performed by a single computer (host computer). It is the processing mode
employed by online systems.
The characteristics of centralized processing are summarized below.
• One computer is used for management, making it possible to focus equipment and personnel.
• Easy to conduct operations management, security management, and maintenance.
• If there is a failure with the computer that performs the processing, the overall system comes to a halt.
(2)Distributed processing
“Distributed processing” is a mode in which processing is divided between multiple computers connected by a network. It is the processing
mode employed by client/server systems.
The features of distributed processing are summarized below.
• Easy to expand the system functions.
• If there is a failure with a single computer, the overall system comes to a
halt.
• Processing is performed by multiple computers, increasing the complexity
of operations management, security management, and maintenance.
• If an abnormality occurs, it can be difficult to trace the location of the abnormality.
Reference
Online system
An “online system” is a system configuration that uses a communication line to
connect be