Millions in Savings Possible in Converting Programs From One Computer to Another

Gao ID: FGMSD-77-34 September 15, 1977

Frequently, computer programs must be converted to make them run on a computer different from the one for which they were originally devised. The annual Federal cost of such conversions is estimated at more than $450 million; over $100 million of this amount could be saved.

The following factors tend to increase conversion costs: lack of readily available software conversion expertise in the Government; poor quality of software to be converted; inadequate flowcharts and other explanatory data; selection of nonstandardized equipment; and lack of programmer productivity aids. The Navy and the General Services Administration (GSA) are planning a Federal center for software conversion. This center could provide the know-how that is needed in software conversion and make it readily available to all agencies.

Recommendations

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