Radiology management: the advantages of the dedicated mini-computer

When planning to automate management functions, a department must choose between using a dedicated mini-computer and the hospital's large central computer facility. Rapid response times and ease of program modification are important advantages of the dedicated mini-computer; moreover, limitations on transmission speeds and the variety of terminals available are disadvantages of the central computer facility. The substantial reduction in the cost of computers coupled with the availability of well designed data-base management systems which allow communication with other systems are additional reasons for selecting the mini-computer. In selecting systems that are already programmed, the department minimizes risks and implementation difficulties.