The full cost of client/server computing

Client/server is a relatively new computer architecture that offers both promise and pitfalls. To accurately compare the costs of a proposed new client/server system with those of an old central mainframe system, it is necessary to identify and quantify the many component parts that were previously bundled into a single system price. A wide range of standards have made it possible for the work of many vendors to be integrated in to a whole, but the large number of standards and the problems of assuring that the selected components fit properly together adds a significant task to those implementing client/server systems. Those who are now thinking of implementing a client/server system must take great care in comparing all the costs of the proposed system with those of the current system. A checklist of many of the relevant costs is included