Feasibility study of a computerized management information system for the NOAA corps personnel system

Abstract

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Commissioned Personnel Division was in the situation of being subject to increasing demands for information and services and having a fixed number of office personnel to fulfill those demands. A study was performed to investigate the feasibility of converting some aspects of the manual data handling procedures to computerized handling. Objectives were defined as: reducing data retrieval and information preparation time; increasing currency of data; aiding in monitoring suspense dates; eliminating some hard copy records; and improving information dissemination. A generalized computer system using a data base management system software package was designed. Alternatives for obtaining the requisite capabilities were evaluated and an implementation procedure was outlined. It was concluded that the automation of the system was feasible and would most likely result in increased effectiveness.