Choice Review

Perhaps somewhat unjustly, data processing departments have long been burdened with a reputation for developing software systems that are ill conceived, error prone, and delivered long after completion date. The project management techniques presented in this how-to guide can contribute significantly toward ameliorating those perceptions. Although many of the methods espoused are not new-Gantt charts, Critical Path Method (CPM), Program Evaluation and Review Technique (PERT), and Work Breakdown Structure (WBA)-they are placed into that context unique to data processing. Although Awani appears to be directing his ideas to very large computer organizations, this should not deter the many small-shop managers from incorporating many of the suggested processes into their systems development strategies. Automated aids for project planning and monitoring are reviewed and a section is devoted to a display of the output generated, such as charts and listings used for planning. Level: upper-division undergraduate business management students.-E.G. Hook, formerly Gettysburg College