Center for Internet Information Systems Research
| Initiative: | Center for Internet Information Systems Research |
| University: | UH, C.T. Bauer College of Business |
| Focus: | Computer Science and Information Systems |
Program Description
Modern societies are increasingly dependent on Internet Information Systems and the software they embrace. Computers and the Internet pervade all aspects of daily life-in government, defense, business, banking and finance, transportation, medicine, law, and education. But without the right Internet software, the Internet hardware is useless or even dangerous. The number, size, and application domains of Internet software being developed have grown dramatically, and as a result, billions of dollars are spent on software development every year. Unfortunately, there continues to be severe problems in the cost, timeliness, security, and the quality of Internet software products.
This is not a new phenomenon. For example, it is estimated that 75 percent of all computer information systems development undertaken is never completed or not used if completed. Another concern is the inordinate amount of funds spent on information systems maintenance rather than development. This suggests that even if information systems are developed "successfully" (are used by their intended audience), the costs of keeping the systems up and running are considerably higher than planned.
Given the importance of Internet information systems for the future of today's and tomorrow's organizations, what tools or methodologies are most effective? Which ones work, and for what types of systems? Are there differences between different types of organizations? What is the body of knowledge needed by tomorrow's Internet Information System developers to successfully compete with their counterparts around the globe? We believe that answers to these questions are critical to the long-term success of the country. This, then, provides the motivation for the proposed center.
Priorities Addressed
This project will address the Internet security priority of the Department of Homeland Security, as well as the cost effective development of network and Internet-based communications systems priority of the Department of Defense. It will address the Internet security and development priorities of the Department of Commerce.
Background and Qualifications
Wynne W. Chin, A.B., biophysics, University of California, Berkeley; M.S., biomedical engineering/chemical engineering, Northwestern University; Ph.D., computers and information systems, University of Michigan.
Carl P. Scott, B.S., chemistry, University of Arizona, 1981; M.S., chemistry, University of Arizona, 1983; Ph.D., chemistry, Colorado State University, 1988. Officer, United States Marine Corps, 1973-1995.
Funding Request for the First Fiscal Year
Through the Departments of Homeland Security, Defense and Commerce, $1 million is requested to establish a University of Houston-based center designed to research, quantify, and evaluate Internet Information Systems. The center will be built on the vision that a free democracy cannot safely function without a safe, secure, and effective Internet Information System.
