In the early days of computing, mainframe computers dominated the landscape. These expensive behemoths resided in separate “computer divisions,” serving as centralized resources for various departments within a corporation. Accessing these resources often involved formal requests and lengthy processing times.
However, a shift began with the emergence of more affordable minicomputers. Smaller, internal analysis groups leveraged these new tools to offer a more responsive service model. This agility enabled them to address user needs quickly and efficiently, fostering a culture of self-service. A simple example highlights this transition: analysts observed a user manually cutting and pasting data from a printed report to reorganize it. By offering to automate this process, the analysis group empowered the user with a self-service solution, significantly improving their workflow.
This spirit of self-service extended beyond simple data manipulation. Users found innovative ways to leverage available technology, like using a PC, tablet digitizer, and AutoCAD to capture aircraft data for radar profile generation. This resourceful approach demonstrates the inherent desire for individuals to find solutions to their own challenges, utilizing whatever tools are at their disposal.
The key takeaway from these early examples is the importance of empowering users. By providing the necessary tools and resources, organizations can foster a self-service environment where individuals can efficiently access and analyze information to meet their specific needs. Whether it’s automating a manual process or enabling innovative data capture techniques, self-service empowers users to take ownership of their work and drive greater efficiency.
