Research to Production Lessons Learned from an Innovative Information System Development Approach

The development and delivery of large-scale, complex information systems is difficult, resulting in a low success rate industry-wide. Most production information systems are developed with the use of atop-down approach often called the waterfall model. In developing a complex information system, many variables must be considered and many potential solutions evaluated simultaneously; a linear approach is not conducive to this activity. Also, projects of this scale and complexity can be disruptive and unmanageable in a production environment. The research and development (R&D) environment is better suited to address the challenges presented by these kinds of projects. Development and transfer should not be considered separately, because the former will have a significant effect on the latter. Development in an R&D environment can provide important advantages for ensuring a successful transfer. A real-world case study of transferring an archived data management system from research to production is used to highlight the issues involved and the solutions required to effect the transition. It considers timing and method, emphasizing and detailing important areas of focus for the project partners. Lessons learned from examining this transfer process can benefit researchers, information technology and transportation professionals, and others who are or will he involved in developing information systems.