Definition
Data Communications describes the degree to which the application
communicates directly with the processor.
The data and control information used in the application are sent
or
received over communication facilities. Devices connected locally
to
the control unit are considered to use communication facilities.
Protocol is a set of conventions that permit the transfer or
exchange of information between two systems or devices. All data
communication links require some type of protocol.
Score
| Score As |
Descriptions to Determine Degree of Influence |
| 0 |
Application is pure batch processing or a stand-alone
application |
| 1 |
Application is batch but has remote data entry or remote
printing |
| 2 |
Application is batch but has remote data entry and remote
printing |
| 3 |
Application includes on-line data collection or TP
(teleprocessing) front end to a batch process or query system
|
| 4 |
Application is more than a front-end, but supports only
one type of TP communications |
| 5 |
Application is more than a front-end, and supports more
than one type of TP communications protocol |
Hints
Protocol examples include FTP, dial-up, Token Ring, Ethernet, SNA,
TCP/IP,
IPX/SPX, HTTP, XML, WAP, NTP, ICQ, and NETBEUI. This list
should not
be considered exhaustive.
- Remote devices might include a 3270 terminal connected to a
mainframe computer that allows only simple edits (numeric vs.
alpha), or printers connected via parallel port (the user can
specify where to direct the output).
- The entry of data does not involve reading or writing directly
to an ILF. Data are entered on-line, but the transactions are
stored in a temporary file for batch update of ILF(s) at a later
time.
- The entry of data does not involve reading or writing directly
to an ILF.
- Simple business rules and minimal edits (e.g., alpha/numeric,
range check, required data, etc.) may be performed. When this
data is eventually processed by the application, additional edits
are performed.
- The entry of data does not involve reading or writing directly
to an ILF. Data are entered on-line, but the transactions are
stored in a temporary file for batch update of ILF(s) at a later
time.
- Data for the application is collected and may directly update
ILF(s) or be stored for future processing using an input device,
which performs edits based on business rules.
- Only one communication protocol is used. Typically, when this
data is processed by the application, no further edits are
required.
- The entry of data involves reading or writing to an ILF.
- For example, client-server data entry or Internet data entry,
but not both.
- Same as 4, however, data collection is performed using
multiple telecommunication protocols.
- For example, client-server data entry and Internet data entry
of the same transaction.
Typically
- Batch applications receive a score of 0 to 3
- On-line applications receive a score of 4
- Web-based applications receive a score of 4 or 5
- Real-time, telecommunication, or process control systems
receive a score of 4 or 5