AN ANALYSIS OF DISTRIBUTED DATA PROCESSING STRUCTURES: ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES

There are numerous ways to describe Distributed Data Processing (DDP) structures and their associated characteristics of functional distribution components and user advantages and disadvantages. However, the bulk of the literature concerning DDP deals with its evolutionary impact and excludes consideration of the key generic characteristics of DDP and how these characteristics relate to user complexity, responsiveness, and user productivity. Therefore, this study was undertaken to analyze generic Distributed Data Processing structures and their advantages and disadvantages. In addition, it described the homogeneous and heterogeneous characteristics of representative DDP environments. During this process, a range of expected DDP models were developed and test case assessments between these hypothesized DDP models and real environments were matched. For this study a comprehensive examination of related readings, professional interviews, case studies, and DDP experiments conducted by the writer were integrated to provide an insight into DDP structures and the changing business environment caused by this new DDP technology. The study\u27s principal conclusion is that Distributed Data Processing may be defined in multiple forms (models) of structural configuration and user functional characteristics. Further, these multiple forms are not homogeneous, that is, a more powerful DDP form is not a natural or logical multiplier of a simpler form. The forms are heterogeneous and may be distinguished from each other by their unique user advantages and disadvantages. Finally, the study concluded that DDP represents an important business opportunity, and is here to stay as a meaningful and effective data processing option. Further, DDP will introduce a new spectrum of user data processing function, but will also introduce unanticipated system complexity as a consequence for users. Moreover, the study determined that, in some cases, DDP was wrought with inefficiency and complications because it was used with abandon. Therefore, data processing executives and professionals should be cognizant to recognize the characteristics of DDP models and their respective options, and then, determine, very specifically, the appropriate environment and associated model that best suits their organization\u27s objectives