A knowledge-based decision support system for computer disaster prevention in IT centres

Abstract

In analysing the extent to which adequate research work may have been undertaken in the specific area of computer disaster prevention, it was found that little work had been done. In the real-life situation, it was also concluded that, in the vast majority of cases, no adequate disaster prevention controls were in use at IT installations. Guidance for the analysis and management of the risk associated with computer disasters, as a result, has also been inadequate and lacking in uniformity, specially in the areas of risk identification and risk entities interactions and relationships. This research has involved developing and delivering a methodology which would help IT risk managers in implementing effective computer disaster prevention controls. A knowledge based system (KBS) approach has been used to build a prototype system which provides full support in this important area of decision making, and to show how the representation of risks can be handled.