Fritz H. Grupe

Data base mining: discovering new knowledge and competitive advantage

Abstract Buried in the huge data bases assembled by large organizations is information useful for generating new facts and relationships that can provide significant competitive advantage. This article describes how data base mining extracts knowledge from existing data bases, data base mining applications and their limitations, and bottom-line benefits.

The application of case-based reasoning to the software development process

Abstract This paper, supported by a commercial case-based reasoning tool, demonstrates a method by which case based reasoning can be applied to the business software development process. Requirements definition, effort estimation, software design, and troubleshooting, and maintenance processes are discussed in terms of candidacy for CBR technology. Proper planning for an adequate support infrastructure is stressed as well as clear expectation setting through ongoing training. CBR is explored as a mechanism for improving productivity and quality problems currently afflicting the corporate software development field.

Reengineering through simulation modeling : Optimizing a telephone ordering system at GPO

Simulation models are a practical tool for reengineering and redesigning processes and workflows, because they infuse management discussions with the quantitative data needed for sound decision making. The Government Printing Offices use of a discrete–event simulation model helps illustrate the tools potential to increase revenue, improve customer service, and optimize resource utilization in the area of telephone ordering.

DIGITAL SIGNATURES: A BUSINESS VIEW

Abstract The technology to create secure digital signatures is proven and workable on PC-level hardware, as well as on mainframes. the issues currently restraining widespread use of digital signatures are primarily legal. This tutorial survey first identifies the functions a digital signature should ideally perform by tracing an example Internet-based electronic business transaction. After an overview of the technology that provides the required functionality, this article presents the current legal status of digital signature use, including a number of unresolved liability issues, and summarizes some precautions for digital signature use.

Using domain knowledge to guide database knowledge discovery

Abstract Modern database technologies process large volumes of data to discover new knowledge. Some large databases make discovery computationally expensive. Additional knowledge, known as domain or background knowledge, hidden in the database can often guide and restrict the search for interesting knowledge. This paper discusses mechanisms by which domain knowledge can be used effectively in discovering knowledge from databases. In particular, we look at the use of domain knowledge to reduce the search as well as to optimize the hypotheses which represent the interesting knowledge to be discovered. Also, we discuss how to use domain knowledge to test the validity of the discovered knowledge. Although domain knowledge can be used to improve database searches, it should not block the discovery of unexpected knowledge. We provide some guidelines to use domain knowledge properly.

Improved software maintenance management. A systems approach is beneficial

A formal procedure for managing software maintenance—from the submission of a work order through the postimplementation review—opens a window of opportunity for the IS manager who sees systems as candidates for reverse engineering, reengineering, and restructuring. This article describes a set of procedures for improving maintenance management.

Genetic algorithms: A business perspective

Describes one of the newest forms of artificial intelligence being applied to the solution of business problems – the genetic algorithm (GA). GAs are useful when a problem has multiple solutions, some of which are better than others. Unlike deterministic, linear and non‐linear optimization models, GAs test a variety of solutions and, through an evolving process, attempt to find the best solution through processes that parallel the metaphors of survival of the fittest, genetic crossover, mutation and natural selection.

Information systems professionals and conflict of interest

Conflicts of interest are situations in which a decision maker must balance personal interests with corporate or organizational interests. Often the conflict is unknown to others involved in or affected by a decision. Examples of conflicts of interest affecting the IT profession are examined and categorized in the areas of self‐dealing, accepting benefits, influence peddling, using your employer’s property for personal advantage, using confidential information, obtaining outside employment or moonlighting, and taking advantage in post‐employment. Further, steps are recommended by which individuals and organizations can reduce the risks attributable to conflicts of interest.

Outsourcing The Help Desk Function

Cost, performance, and service demands are just some of the issues driving organizations to outsource all or part of their help desk functions. Selecting an appropriate vendor and preparing a detailed contract are key to forming a cost-effective and productive relationship that gives both the organization and the vendor a competitive advantage. A six-step approach helps IS managers delineate the goals, requirements, and terms on which such a relationship is based.

Database tools to acquire knowledge for rule-based expert systems

Abstract Knowledge acquisition is a complex and time-consuming stage of expert system development. Most database applications in large corporations have a large volume of data that can be used in decision making. This data can be processed by specialized, induction tools and knowledge discovery tools to generate the knowledge base (in the form of rules) for an expert system. Real-world databases, however, present some difficulties for knowledge discovery as they tend to be incomplete, redundant, and inconsistent. Subsequently, we describe a framework in which the available tools can be used to manipulate databases to remove these problems in order to improve the quality of the databases being processed for knowledge discovery.