Imagine that you no longer needed programmers. Although we are not there yet, the business buzzword end-user computing (EUC) may be a way to get there. This allows users to create their own applications without needing complex engineering. The experts from EASA explain that EUC allows operations staff to create their applications, which frees specialists up to concentrate on more difficult tasks.
They add that not only does it democratize the process of application-building, but it also accommodates software that is purpose-made for the needs of particular staff -- who knows what you need better than you do?
However, it's not all rainbows and sunshine. EUC is a great solution for many businesses, but it's not the best. How can you determine if EUC is right for you? To help you make an informed decision, here are the pros and cons.
Benefits of End-User Computing
Centralization
EUC eliminates the need for IT departments to manage tasks such as file sharing and data storage. Instead, everyone can do this for themselves by centralizing these processes. This allows IT staff to focus on other important tasks, such as supporting your team or fixing bugs. It also makes it easier to manage your entire fleet.
Security
Cybersecurity is undoubtedly the most pressing issue facing businesses in the 21st Century. Many EUC programs allow you to save and keep data without having to store it on your own devices. Instead, they can be stored in the cloud which makes it far more resistant to security breaches. Your data will be more secure than ever when it is combined with authorization and authentication protocols. However, EUCs are often written by laypeople and could be vulnerable to security problems or bugs.
Support
Sometimes IT is needed to perform simple tasks that don't require expert knowledge. So much so, has become a common phrase. EUC greatly reduces the need for support, in part because it gives individuals agency when it comes to software.
End-User Computing: Disadvantages
Training
Although EUC is simple by design and easy to understand, it still needs some training. It will take some time to learn how to use the platform you choose, how to maximize it, and how best to create an application that suits your needs. It will require a lot more trial and error, tweaking, and changing than software that is already designed for professionals.
Documentation
It's great to create your own application because you can customize it to suit your needs. It also means that it doesn't have the usual processes software developers use to make sure their program is accessible by all. Without proper documentation and explanation, your entire team (or multiple members of your team) might have trouble using the program.
Audit Trail
An audit trail is required if the EUC data you are using to store data is critical for your business's finances, compliance, and legal activities. Without proper application-building, it may be difficult to reproduce your steps in the future. This can lead to a lot of good faith problems.
EUC is a powerful tool for many businesses because it allows employees to design programs that meet their needs. However, a lack of training and experience in the software building process can lead to many problems for your company.