System Conversion: Teaching vs. Reality.

Abstract

This article summarizes the coverage of conversion in 17 current textbooks from major publishers — 10 for introductory MIS and seven for systems analysis. It compares this coverage with current practice, as determined by (a) studies of 74 organizations by the author’s students and (b) conversions reported in the trade press. Differences between typical textbook coverage and practice are documented, and recommendations for remedying the situation are made.