Implementation of large computer-communication projects in a developing country: a case study

Abstract

The implementation of geographically dispersed computer-communication projects involving large financial outlays is a complex task, more so in a developing country context. This paper is focused around a case study which highlights some of the issues in the context of Indian Railways decision to iplement a large computer-communication network for the management of its freight operations. The case study is followed by a case analysis which first analysis the causes of project delay; then issues specific to this being a computer-communication project, as well as issues which are of general nature and which we believe will be applicable to high technology projects involving large investments in a developing country context are discussed.