NCJ Number
125099
Date Published
1990
Length
120 pages
Annotation
This guide provides small criminal justice agencies with assistance regarding procurement of a computer system.
Abstract
It presents a step-by-step description of the planning, investigating, and selecting process. An overview of basic microcomputer terminology and components covers the purposes and characteristics of hardward systems and application software. Suggestions are provided for a course for preliminary planning, for needs assessment, and for determination of user requirements. Conducting a feasibility study and investigating available hardware and software are also discussed. For larger acquisitions, the process of developing a formal requests for proposals (REP) and its major components are explained together with an evaluation of the proposal and selection of a vendor. Contracts and optional costs are examined, and installation requirements are reviewed. An extensive glossary of microcomputer terms and a resource directory are included. 6 figures