Establishing an Information Architecture: Integration with an Open Systems Environment

Abstract

This paper describes the development of a structured Information Architecture, working hand-in-hand with the deployment of open systems technology. The key strategic initiatives which brought these efforts together are discussed: commitment to improved data access, migration to relational database technology, deployment of a high-speed, multi-protocol network, and re-orientation to workstation-centered computing.Details of Indiana University's Information Architecture are presented, focusing on the relationship of operational to informational databases, the creation of synthetic data structures and higher order "Information products," and the integration of the Architecture with local and departmental data systems. Discussion of the underlying technology paradigm addresses the integration of proprietary components with open systems solutions: mainframe/server, workstation/client, networks, gateways, and database management systems. Finally, examples from IU's Information Architecture agenda describe current and future steps in this joint effort.