Optimal capacity of a firm's computer backup center

Abstract

Continuous provision of computing services is a crucial concern to more and more organizations characterized by a heavy use of computers to promote their survival and prosperity. Yet despite the costly consequences of computer system breakdowns, few research results are available to guide business firms in managing the risks of computer system breakdowns. This paper identifies a number of common strategies to cope with the computer downtime problem. Useful analytical models and solution procedures are then proposed to tackle this critical problem.