Chain Analysis for large-scale Communication systems: A Methodology for Information Exchange in Chains Chain Analysis for Large-scale Communication Systems: A Methodology for Information Exchange in Chains

The chain concept is introduced to explain how large-scale information
infrastructures so often fail and sometimes even backfire. Next, the assessment
framework of the doctrine of Chain-computerisation and its chain analysis procedure
are outlined. In this procedure chain description precedes assessing the necessity
and the feasibility of large-scale chain communication systems. The nature
of the assessment tools is explained as well as the way they can be used. With the
results of a chain analysis a chain information strategy can be defined focused on
the development and maintainability of chain information systems. An organisation
strategy can be derived from the chain analysis results, as well. Some interesting
results are presented based on the comparison of twenty case studies in the context
of the chain research project at Utrecht University. Finally, conclusions are
drawn and some major challenges identified.
Notice that this founding article is meant as a guide to future case studies. A vocabulary
of the relevant terms and concepts of Chain-computerisation in relation to
chain analysis is added to this article.