This book investigates the strategic and technical feasibility of migrating enterprise applications from legacy mainframe environments to distributed PC, workstation, and local area network architectures. Richard H. Baker provides a comprehensive framework for organizations evaluating the cost-benefit ratios of downsizing. The text synthesizes technical requirements with managerial oversight to ensure a smooth transition of data and operational processes.

Experts recognize this work as a period-specific guide for IT managers navigating the transition away from centralized computing. Readers frequently note that while the hardware focus is dated, the managerial principles regarding risk assessment and system integration remain relevant for legacy system analysis.