Appendix F Client/Server Systems
Appendix F Client/Server Systems Discussion Focus Why may client/server computing be considered an evolutionary, rather than a revolutionary, change? Client/server computing didn't happen suddenly. Instead, it is the result of years of slow-paced changes in end user computing. Using Appendix F, Section F.2's evolution of client/server information systems, first illustrate the typical mainframe scenario (users accessing dumb terminals), then move the discussion to the development on the microcomputer and its impact on work styles to set the stage for the current PC-based client/server computing scenario. Use Appendix F, Table F.1 to illustrate the contrasting characteristics of the mainframe-based and client/server-based information systems. Why may the client/server evolution be characterized as a bottom-up change and how does this change affect the computing environment? Modern end users use intelligent computers, GUIs, user-friendly systems, and data analysis tools to effectively increase their productivity. In addition, data sharing requirements make efficient use of network resources a priority issue. Given such an end user-based environment, it is not surprising that the end user drives the client/server architecture’s development and acceptance. Given this introduction and expanding on its theme, students are more easily able to contrast the PC-based client/server computing model and the traditional mainframe-computing model. After identifying the differences in computing style that characterize these models, the discussion may be shifted toward the formal definition of client/server systems, the forces that drive client/server systems, and the managerial expectations of client/server system benefits. Section F.7.2's examination of the managerial expectations of client/server systems benefits is the key to understanding the opportunities and risks associated with client/server systems. Students will benefit from the suggested readings in this section, so we suggest their assignment. What are the client/server's infrastructure requirements and how do they function? Appendix F’s Client/Server Architecture Section F.3 deals with the technical details of the client/server main components. This discussion is more likely to be fruitful if you first assign Appendix G, “Client/Server Network Infrastructure,” and Appendix F’s section F.3 as background reading to acquaint students with the basic network components such as cabling, topology, types, communication devices and network protocols. Use the example illustrated in Figure F.3 to briefly explain the interaction among the main components: client, server, and communications channel or network. Emphasize that each of these components requires a combination of hardware and software subcomponents. We suggest that, before discussing the technical details of each client/server component, it will be helpful to explain the Client/Server architectural principles that govern most client/server systems. Use the OSI network reference model illustrated in 574