Computer choices made easier

Selecting the right data processing (DP) system is a difficult decision for a banker because of the many stumbling blocks, including the multitude of hardware and software available. A consultant can be used to target the choice, but its study must be sharply focused if it is to be useful. The American Bankers Association has published a guidebook entitled Guide to Evaluating Data Processing Alternatives, which takes the bank through a series of steps for evaluating DP alternatives without the use of consultants. United Vermont Bancorporation (Rutland, Vermont) used the guide to: 1. establish a steering committee to set goals for the DP acquisition, 2. assess the features the DP system was to have, 3. send a request for proposals to vendors, 4. score and evaluate the proposals received, 5. cost the most attractive proposals, and 6. make the final selection. The evaluation process enabled the bank to realize most of its goals.