QUANTITATIVE METHODS FOR INFORMATION PROCESSING SYSTEMS EVALUATION

摘要

This research was directed toward determining whether computer system timings could be simply estimated, with reasonable accuracy, using only standardized descriptions of a computer system and an application. In the course of the research, determination of those elements of a computer and associated programs that are critical to overall timing were to be indicated. This research demonstrates that the approach is feasible. The conclusion is supported by the development of the VECTOR process for readily estimating computer processing times. The system permits prediction of time estimates to process a given application on a specific computer within ± 15%. Preparation of the standard description for a typical computer requires 25 man-hours and for a typical application 2 man-hours, but this needs to be done only once to permit many analyses. The approach does take limitations into account (e.g. , input-limited, computer-limited runs, etc.) Details of the VECTOR process, of the development of specific vectors (standard descriptions; lor Honeywell 800, IBM 7074, and UNIVAC III, and of the tests are reported in the supporting technical notes.