United States Office of Administration and 208-R-92-001
Environmental Protection Resources Management November 30,1991
Agency Architectural Management & Planning Branch
.Research Triangle Park, N.C. 27711
&EPA Information Technology
Architecture
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Environmental Protection Agency
Presented By
Architectural Management and Planning Branch
"EPA's Information Technology Experts"
National Data Processing Division
Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
U S Environmental Protection A|
Region 5, Library (PM2J)
77 West Jackson B^levsrd, 12t
Chicago, IL CC&-J4-3590
November 1991
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Overview
This document provides a summary of the Environmental Protection
Agency's (EPA's) current information technology architecture, its
underlying principles, and its future enhancement efforts. The diagrams
and text on the following pages form an overall picture on the Agency's
information technology architecture and represents the decisions of IRM
management. In addition to presenting the current architecture, the
document reflects decisions and standards that are in the implementation
process. Individuals involved in planning, implementing, and using the
Agency's information resources will receive the greatest benefit from
reviewing this document.
Section 1 - EPA's Current Architecture presents the Agency's architectural
foundations, including the current hardware platforms, software tools, and
data communications environment. The hardware platforms and software
tools are linked in the architectural vision through the tier approach. The
tiers are hierarchical - national resources and local/personal resources.
Section 2 - Acquisitions summarizes procurements that have recently been
completed or procurements that are in process. The acquisitions represent
the Agency's effort to implement and utilize the most modern technology
to meet growing user demands.
Section 3 - Architectural Issues identifies areas of concern for information
resource managers. The findings, recommendations, and
limitations/actions proposed by the resolution team are described.
Section 4 - AMPB and the ITAS Contract provides a brief description of the
Architectural Management and Planning Branch's (AMPB's) organization
chart and the Information Technology Architecture Support (ITAS)
contract, illustrating the team that coordinates the Agency's architecture
development efforts.
November 1991
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Architectural Management and Planning Branch
£PA's Information Technology experts"
Outline
Section 1 - EPA's Current Architecture
Architectural Objectives
Architectural Tiers
Hardware Locations
Architecture Overview
Data Communications
Regional Office LAN Connections
File Transfer
Video Teleconferencing
Section 2 - Acquisitions
Recently Completed Acquisitions
Geographic Information System (CIS) Workstations
DEC Scientific Hardware/Software
SQL/RDBMS on LANs
In Process Acquisitions
Agency Workstations
RDBMS for Scientific Computing
High Speed Printers
High Performance Computing
International Network Access
Section 3 - Architectural Issues
LAN as a National Application Platform
SQL/RDBMS
LMF Futures and Regional Servers
Email and Document Distribution
Common User Interface
AS/400 Utilization
IRM Training
UNIX
Section 4 - AMPB and the ITAS Contract
Architectural Management and Planning Branch
AMPB Organization Chart
Information Technology Architecture Support Contract
November 1991
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Section 1 - EPA's Current Architecture
Architectural Objectives
The initial objectives of the Agency's information technology architecture
were developed by EPA Information Resources Management in 1984 as
part of a modernization plan. Since initial development, these objectives
have been periodically updated by the Office of Information Resources
Management (OIRM) and the National Data Processing Division (NDPD).
However, the fundamental objective of a multi-user, multi-platform,
Agency-wide architecture has remained the cornerstone of the information
technology development strategy.
The architecture consists of two major computing resources located at the
National Computer Center (NCC) - the IBM mainframe and the DEC VAX
cluster. The IBM platform, running the MVS/ESA operating system,
supports the general user population with national applications and Agency
databases. The DEC VAX platform, running the VMS operating system, is
the primary resource supporting the computing and data storage needs of
the research and laboratory community.
Minicomputers, LAN servers, and personal workstations bring computing
resources directly to the user. MS/DOS and UNIX have been selected as
the primary operating systems for desktop workstations.
The Agency complies with standards issued by several organizations
including the National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST). In an
effort to conform to national standards, the Agency uses IBM's Systems
Network Architecture (SNA) as the telecommunications architecture. SNA
links IBM-compatible hosts at Research Triangle Park (RTP) and Cincinnati
and provides terminal access to the hosts. VAX hosts are linked via the
DECNET/X.25 architecture. ASCII interactive terminals access the IBM
hosts at RTP through the X.25 protocol.
NIST has established the Government Open Systems Interconnection
Profile (GOSIP), a federal standard for WANs. GOSIP promotes
interoperability (the ability to transfer files, messages, and transactions)
across heterogeneous vendor-specific computing platforms. The Agency is
developing plans to implement the GOSIP standard on all of its major
computing platforms.
Novwntrar 1991
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Architectural Management and Planning Branch "EPA's Information Technology Experts"
Architectural Objectives
Provide functions and capabilities required by Agency
customers and anticipate their future needs
Promote consistency with mainstream hardware/software
platforms
- IBM MVS/ESA and its successors as platforms for
national production applications
- DEC VAX/VMS for laboratory applications
- MS/DOS and UNIX for desktop computing
- Novell NetWare for Token Ring LANs to link PCs
- DECNET and Ethernet LANs to link workstations in the
laboratory environment
Comply with FIPS and de facto standards to promote
interoperability
- SNA for IBM-compatible WANs
- X.25 for connecting IBM, VAX, and other vendor
processors
- Comply with GOSIP Version 1 (FIPS 146) in the
acquisition of all new computing platforms
- MVS/ESA operating system for the IBM mainframe
platform
- VMS operating system for the DEC VAX platform
- Novell operating system for Token Ring LAN file servers
- UNIX operating system for imaging and geographic
information system workstations
Acquire and implement information technology components
November 1991 Pag* 4
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Architectural Tiers
There are two levels or tiers of computing resources within the Agency.
The tiers are distinguished by the relative power of the hardware platforms
and the functions supported by their software tools.
Tier 1 computing resources are national in nature and support the large
processing requirements of users in both the administrative and scientific
communities.
The IBM mainframe supports a significant portion of the
Agency's national applications and databases. The critical
nature of the mainframe's functions justifies the secondary
mainframe located at a disaster recovery site in Cincinnati.
The disaster recovery mainframe is capable of supporting the
Agency's critical applications.
The VAX cluster serves the research and laboratory
community and offers processing power that exceeds the local
resources at most of the laboratory sites. While the VAX
cluster supports many scientific computing requirements, the
Agency has recently negotiated supercomputing resources
from the Microelectronics Center of North Carolina (MCNC).
A separate VAX cluster provides Agency users with national
electronic mail. DEC'S ALL-IN-1 is an office automation
system that provides electronic messaging, document transfer,
and bulletin board services.
Tier 2 computing resources address the needs of specific locations,
functions, and users. DEC VAX systems support the local needs of the
laboratory and research sites in the Agency. Regional offices are supplied
with LAN servers for processing regional and national applications. Special
function minicomputers and workstations provide scientific platforms for
Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Laboratory Information
Management Systems (LIMS), and Image Processing Systems (IPS). In
addition to these multi-user resources, tier 2 includes PCs that bring service
directly to the user.
November 1991
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National
Computing
Center
Disaster
Recovery
Cincinnati
National
Computing
Center
National
Computing
Center
DEC
VAX Cluster
IBM
ES9021-340
Mainframes
IBM
ES9021-720
Mainframes
DEC
VAX Cluster
Electronic
Mail Services
Special
Function
Computing
Personal
Computer
Scientific
Workstation
Laboratory
Computing
General
Computing
Intel 386
Intel 486
RISC
Processor
Minicomputer
Systems and
Workstations
VAX
MicroVAX
LAN
Servers
November 1991
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Tier 1 of the Architecture
The IBM host environment supports over 16,000 users for application
development, transaction processing, national database applications, and
file-oriented application systems. Information Builders Inc.'s FOCUS, a
fourth generation language and database management system, is provided
as a tool for end-user computing and small/simple applications. SAS is the
Agency's approved software for statistical analysis and file management.
SAS Graph and Tell-A-Graf are provided for graphics development and
production. Programming languages such as C, FORTRAN, and COBOL
may be used for application development.
The disaster recovery mainframe located in Cincinnati is configured with a
limited set of the applications present on the mainframe host located at the
NCC. The application support software residing on the disaster recovery
mainframe includes SAS, FOCUS, and FORTRAN. All software tools
required to run the Agency's critical applications are loaded onto the
disaster recovery mainframe.
The VAX cluster utilizes many of the same software tools found on the
IBM platform. The VAX cluster applications include FOCUS for database
management and SAS and SAS Graph for statistical analysis and
presentation. FORTRAN is available as the programming language on most
of the tier 1 hardware platforms. ESRI's ARC/INFO allows the VAX cluster
to process data in the Geographic Information System (GIS), which is
present on tier 2.
A second VAX cluster has recently been installed to serve as the national
electronic mail platform for the Agency. Residing on the VAX cluster is
DEC's ALL-IN-1 office automation system. In addition to electronic
messaging, ALL-IN-1 provides document transfer and bulletin board
services.
November 1991
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Architectural Management and Planning Branch
EPA '3 Information Technology Expats'
National
Computing
Center
Disaster
Recovery
Cincinnati
National
Computing
Center
National
Computing
Center
DEC
VAX Cluster
IBM
ES9021-340
Mainframes
IBM
ES9021-720
Mainframes
DEC
VAX Cluster
Electronic
Mail Services
VMS
ALL-IN-1
J MVS\ESA
J TSO
CICS I ISO
ISPF
FORTRAN
ELECTRONIC
MESSAGING
ARC/INFO
DOCUMENT
TRANSFER
FORTRAN
FORTRAN
BULLETIN
BOARD
WORDPERFECT
OTHER
APPLICATIONS
DURING
DISASTER
SAS GRAPH
TELL-A-GRAF
November 1991
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Tier 2 of the Architecture
Tier 2 is becoming dramatically influenced by the large number of
workstations and LANs within the Agency. The growth of LANs has
prompted the implementation of the remote file server resource.
Remote file servers run the Novell NetWare operating system to support
multiple users. The remote file servers support national and regional
applications such as the Superfund Enforcement Documents Library System
and the Personnel Information System utilized by Region 1. WASTELAN is
a LAN-based national application for tracking hazardous waste sites. The
Agency anticipates significant LAN-based application development on the
remote file servers as they are fully implemented. In addition to
environmental systems, the remote file servers support LAN-based office
productivity applications such as WordPerfect Office.
DEC VAX and Micro VAX systems provide computing resources for the
Agency's laboratories and research facilities. Many of the DEC systems are
configured with FORTRAN for application development, SAS for statistical
analysis, and FOCUS for database management. Many of the laboratories
have developed scientific applications for the VAX and MicroVAX
platforms.
Special function minicomputers and workstations provide the Agency with
a platform for dedicated information systems. These computers support
CIS, LIMS, and IPS.
Workstations connected via Token Ring and Ethernet LANs link customers
to more powerful processing platforms and facilitate the distribution of
information. Departmental servers allow workgroups or teams to share
common applications and frequently updated databases. The standard
workstation is an Intel 386 machine. Intel 486 machines are available to
meet users' high power workstation requirements and Reduced Instruction
Set Computing (RISC) architecture workstations enhance scientific
computing and graphics applications.
November 1991
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Architectural Management and Planning Branch
'EPA's Information Technology Experts'
Special
Function
Computing
Personal
Computer
Scientific
Workstation
Laboratory
Computing
General
Computing
Intel 386
Intel 486
RISC
Processor
VAX
MicroVAX
Minicomputer
Systems and
workstations
LAN
Servers
FORTRAN
SCIENTIFIC
SOFTWARE
NATIONAL
REGIONAL
APP
LAN
WORD
PERFECT
ARC/INFO
LOTUS 123
tfATHEMATIC
CROSSTALK
WORD
PERFECT
OFFICE
SCIENTIFIC
SOFTWARE
November 1991
Pag* 10
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"EPA's Information Technology Experts"
Architectural Management and Planning Branch
Hardware Locations
Research
Triangle
Park
National Computer Centtr
Rtaea/ch Triangle Park, NC
ISM ES9C21-720S
VAX Cluster
LANs (Token Ring t Ethernet)
Special Function Minis
A EM Headquarter*
Waehington, DC
LAN> pbh*n'Ring I Ethernet)
Special Function Mm«
O Futurt Labonlory
High P*rtOTiTmno» Computer
EtheriMt LAN>
D Oiaaclcr RaeovMy Bit<
Cincinnati, OH
IBM ESM21-340
VAX 11/765
LAN* (Token Ring a Ethernet)
A Regional Otlicee
Token Ring LAN. (Servers)
Ethernet LANs
Special Function Minn
Laboretorlea
DEC VAXs (11/78x. 63x0.
86x0. and MicroVAXj)
Ethernet LANs
Special Function Mints
flflWM
0 Future High Performance CompuUi
IDl DEC VAX (11/7*1, C3XOL M«0)
DOCC Micro VAX
D Special PurpoM Minia
^.Token Ring IAN Platforme
V Etnernet LANe
fage
NovMnber 1991
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Architectural Management and Planning Branch
EPA's iHformttkm Technology Experts'
Architecture Overview
'Disaster Recovery Site Cincinnati, OH \ (EPA Headquarters Washington, DC
IBM ES9021-340
Novell Servers and Token Ring LANs
VJSpeclal Function Minicomputers
1.54 Mbps
Dedicated
1.54 Mbps Dedicated Line
Line
56Kbps
1.54 Mbps
rDedicated Lines
National Computer Center (NCC)
Research Triangle Park.
IBMES9021-720(TSO)
IBM ES9021-720 (ADABAS)
Email Cluster
(2) DEC VAX 6510
(2) DEC VAX 8650
DEC VAX 6420, 11/785
56 Kbps
Dedicated Lines
to each Site
56 Kbps
Dedicated Lines
to each Site
Regional Offices
^Novell Servers and Token Ring LANs
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"EPA's Information Technology Experts"
Architectural Management and Planning Branch
Data Communications
The Agency's data communications network serves EPA, state
environmental agencies, other federal agencies, and commercial
enterprises. To facilitate communication among these diverse
organizations, the network supports interactive terminal access to tier 1
and tier 2 platforms for ASCII terminals and PCs. The network includes
multiplexors and protocol conversion devices, communication controllers,
X.25 switches and X.25 PADS. Some state IBM hosts are linked to the
Agency's SNA logical network via the SNA Network Interconnect (SNI)
feature. DEC-to-DEC communication is accomplished by DECNET
architecture using X.25 as the transport protocol. DEC-to-IBM connectivity
is provided via a DEC/SNA gateway at NCC.
Peer networking for remote PCs on Token Ring and Ethernet LANs is
limited to a campus area environment. Wide area peer networking is
planned for the future.
The network supports ASCII and SNA protocols for the IBM environment.
The bulk data transfer feature of SNA is used for file transfer among IBM
hosts. The Network Job Entry (NJE) component of SNA enables the
transfer of batch jobs and print files among IBM hosts.
November 1991
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Architectural Management and Planning Branch
EPA's Information Technology Experts"
Data Communications
Disaster
Recovery
ESBOOO s* NCC
IBM
ES0000
DEC VAX
86x0
64X0
11/TSx
Special
Function
Mini
EPA's
National
Data
Communications
System
SNA
X.25
TCP/IP
DECNET/X.25
&
ASCII
Regional
Servers
November 1991
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Wide Area Network
The Agency's data network provides access to users throughout the
continental United States, Hawaii, Alaska, and Puerto Rico. The logical
network consists of a backbone SNA network, an X.25 network, and a
state network.
The network is evolving into a design that offers higher capacity and
performance, greater reliability, and significant overall savings using
FTS2000, the government's telecommunications system. The new
network has the following design characteristics.
Each regional office and the Las Vegas laboratory is linked to
the network with two 56 kbps circuits. The first circuit is
primarily utilized for SNA traffic and links with NCC. The
second circuit links the sites to Cincinnati and serves X.25
traffic. Should the NCC become incapacitated or should the
primary circuit fail, SNA traffic to RTP can be switched to the
second circuit. This disaster recovery back-up capability
allows the regional offices to access the Agency's critical
applications in Cincinnati when necessary.
The NCC, Headquarters, and the disaster recovery site are
linked through a T-1 triangle. The T-1 circuits permit high
speed communication among the three major computing
nodes.
All laboratory sites have 56 kbps access to Cincinnati. These
circuits allow X.25 traffic to flow among the non-SNA
platforms in the Agency.
These characteristics provide users with high speed connectivity among
their terminals/workstations and remote processors. The lower cost of
FTS2000 provides the Agency with an economically efficient network.
The three subnetworks that comprise the EPA National Data
Communications System are described in the following pages.
November 1991
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Architectural Management and Planning Branch
"EPA"3 Infomutton Technology experts"
Wide Area Network
Honolulu
Washington, DC
AdmiimtartiMi OftieM
RMMrah Trltngl* Psrk, NC
Clneinncll, OH
A RtgioMl OHICM
LabonlerlM
O »t«1» OHio»*
BAknora
-, '*
Washington DC
November 1991
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"EPA's Information Technology /Exports'
Architectural Management and Planning Branch
SNA Network
The Agency SNA network connects the Agency's headquarters,
Cincinnati, and regional office facilities to the NCC. FTS2000
dedicated digital 56 kbps data circuits are used to connect IBM 3745
and IBM 3720 communications controllers located at each site. A
triangle of Agency-acquired T-1 circuits links RTP, Cincinnati, and
Headquarters in Washington, DC. The T-1 triangle serves as a "super
backbone" and facilitates an alternative route for SNA and X.25 traffic
as well as a dedicated high speed link to Cincinnati during disaster
recovery operation. The SNA network provides NCC mainframe
connection services for 3270 cluster controllers, SNA Remote Job
Entry (RJE) workstations, and PCs attached to Token Ring LANs.
November
-------
Architectural Management and Planning Branch
"EPA 's Information Ttchnotogy Experts"
X.25 Network
The X.25 packet switching network connects the Agency's laboratory
computers to the NCC. The X.25 network also connects the
Agency's regional offices to the disaster recovery site in Cincinnati to
provide alternative circuit routing for the regional offices. FTS2000
dedicated digital 56 kbps data circuits are used to connect Infotron
X.25 packet switching equipment located at the major laboratories,
EPA headquarters, and regional offices. The EPA X.25 network
provides DEC-to-DEC host communications and support for the
Agency ASCII (dial and dedicated) terminals via Packet
Assemblers/Disassembler (PAD) connections. The packet switching
network has connections to the FTS2000 packet switching network
and the international value added network services provided by BT
Tymnet.
1991
Pag* 18
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"EPA's Information Technology Experts"
Architectural Management and Planning Branch
State Network
The Agency's state network is a natural extension of the SNA and
X.25 networks. Depending upon the requirements of the individual
states, the Agency provides FTS2000 dial data services or FTS2000
analog leased line data service (16.8 kbps or less) to connect state-
owned equipment to the EPA state network (SNA or X.25 networks).
The Agency provides the protocol conversion service necessary to
resolve any incompatibilities among state-supplied service and Agency
application requirements.
ftMMdi lti«l« Put, MC
CkMfciMLeH *
DC
Novwnl
-------
Architectural Management and Planning Branch
"EPA'* Information Technology Experts"
Wide Area Network Standards
U.S. ASCII asynchronous terminal communications
- Migrating to a single Agency approach during FY91-92
IBM protocols supported
- SNA/SDLC PU.2, four 3270 terminals
- PU.4, PU.5, four MSNF host-to-host SNA
- SNA RJE and NJE
- SNI gateway to state and foreign SNA networks
- Bisynchronous RJE is being replaced by SNA
X.25 packet switching networks, X.25 PAD functions, X.25 host
- Functions migrating to full OSI compliant upper level
protocols and FIPS 146 (GOSIP)
DECNET DNA protocols over X.25
PRIMENET X.25 related protocols over X.25 lower levels
TCP/IP protocols for connectivity to both IBM hosts, DEC hosts,
and the Internet
lovembw 1991
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"EPA's Information Technology Experts"
Architectural Management and Planning Branch
Local Area Network Standards
IEEE 802.5 IBM Token Ring LAN media with upper layer protocols
of:
- Novell Advanced NetWare SPX and IPX protocols
- IBM NETBIOS-related protocols for higher level connectivity
- IBM SNA (PU.2 2.1) (LU.26.2)
IEEE 802.3 Ethernet LAN media with upper layer protocols of:
- DECNET-related Ethernet protocols
- Prime TCP/IP Ethernet protocols
IEEE 802.2 media access control layer compliant protocols
TCP/IP support for IBM mainframe and VAX cluster connection to
the Internet
TCP/IP support for connectivity to special function minicomputers
and workstations
November 1991
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Architectural Management and Planning Branch
"EPA's Information Technology Exports'
Regional Office LAN Connections
Communications Controller
TIC 1 TIC 2
Token Ring
Interconnect Cards
(TICs)
Source
Routing
Bridge
Source
Routing
Bridge
Facility Backbone
IBM Novell
LAN
Manager
Imago
Processing
Ring
Workstation
November 1991
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"EPA's Information Technology Experts"
Architectufal Management and Planning Branch
File Transfer
1. IBM Mainframe-to-File Server
ARBITER/POSTMAN, Micro-Mainframe Link Software
3270 File Transfer
Kermit
2. VAX-to-VAX
DECNET/X.25
3. VAX-to-IBM
SNA Gateway
RJE, Distributed File Transfer, 3270 Emulation
NFS (Network File System)
4. VAX-to-PC
DECWindows
VAX to PCSA "LANWORKS"
Kermit
5. PC-to-PC in a Token Ring LAN
Novell NetWare
6. TCP/IP Platforms
FTP (File Transfer Protocol)
SMTP (Simple Message Transfer Protocol)
NFS
ARBITER
Micro-Mainframe Link Software
November 1991
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Architectural Management and Planning Branch
"EPA'* Information Tichnohgy Experts'
Video Teleconferencing
Video Teleconferencing is an electronic method of establishing a face-to-
face meeting among work groups regardless of the distance separating
them. It uses digital circuits provided by AT&T through the FTS2000
Network Service contract. Through a team effort between AT&T and
NDPD, EPA established the first FTS2000 Video Teleconference network in
the federal government on February 26 of 1990.
C-VTS uses advanced data communications techniques to encode live,
color video, and audio into computer data. Each end of the circuit is
equipped with an AT&T-provided COder-DECoder (CODEC) that performs
this function. The encoded video and audio is routed over the same
FTS2000 network as other voice and data connections. At the distant
end, the signal is decoded into the original video picture and sound. Any
properly equipped EPA sites can be connected together upon request and
may see and hear each other for the duration of the conference.
The EPA C-VTS pilot
implementation that was
conducted in FY90 included
three sites - one at EPA
Headquarters in Washington,
DC and two in North
Carolina. Sixteen sites were
implemented during FY91
and four additional sites are
identified for implementation
during FY92 for a total of 23
sites. Eight of the EPA's 10
regional offices, several major labs, Headquarters, and the Administration
Building in North Carolina are currently in service. Feedback to date
indicates that EPA C-VTS is an effective method of conducting meetings
and maximizing the use of employee time.
November 1991
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"EPA's Information Technology Experts"
Architectural Management and Planning Branch
Installed Sites
Room 3307, Waterside Mall
Director's Conf Room, Waterside Mall
ERC, Waterside Mall
Fairchild Bldg, Headquarters
Mutual Building, OAQPS
Administration Building
NEIC, Denver
ERT and ORD Laboratory
ORD Laboratory
ORD Laboratory
ORD Laboratory
Region 1 Office
Region 2 Office
Region 3 Office
Region 4 Office
Region 5 Office
Region 6 Office
Region 7 Office
Region 8 Office
Region 9 Office
Region 10 Office
Future Sites
Judiciary Square
ERC Laboratory
Washington D.C.
Washington D.C.
Washington D.C.
Washington D.C.
Durham, NC
Research Triangle Park, NC
Denver, CO
Edison, NJ
Las Vegas, NV
Cincinnati, OH
Ada, OK
Boston, MA
New York, NY
Philadelphia, PA
Atlanta, GA
Chicago, IL
Dallas, TX
Kansas City, KA
Denver, CO
San Francisco, CA
Seattle, WA
Washington D.C.
Bay City, Ml
Novwtbar
-------
Architectural Management and Planninfl Branch 'EPA's Information Technology experts'
Section 2 - Acquisitions
Recently Completed Acquisitions
Geographic Information System (G/S) Workstations
The GIS Computer Systems Acquisition provides a contract vehicle for
acquiring hardware, system software, communications
equipment/software, and utility software for the long-term
implementation of GIS Agency-wide. The procurement is based on
the ability to run ARC/INFO software from ESRI, Inc. on a UNIX
platform. Data General will be providing the GIS workstations.
DEC Scientific Hardware/Software
The expanding requirements for processing power in the research and
laboratory communities prompted the acquisition of new DEC
hardware and software. A contract has been awarded to Digital
Equipment Corporation to supply the Agency with upgrades, new
hardware, and software. The contract is effective for five years and a
separate maintenance contract will be effective for an additional three
years.
SQL/RDBMS on LANs
The SQL/RDBMS architectural issue lead the Agency to examine and
procure software for the LANs. The contract to provide SQL/RDBMS
software was recently awarded to Oracle.
In Process Acquisitions
Agency Workstations
The Agency is conducting a competitive acquisition to provide
workstations, LANs, associated hardware, software, and services for
the next five years. The current interim contract will expire in
February of 1992 and requires the completion of this long-term
solution to the Agency's workstation demands. The proposals have
been technically evaluated and final offers are under review. The
contract award is scheduled to be made in the first quarter of FY92.
November 1991
-------
"EPA's Information Technology Experts'
Architectural Management and Planning Branch
RDBMS for Scientific Computing
Data management is of prime importance to the scientific community.
The goal of this project is to provide the scientific users in the Agency
with a procurement vehicle for a comprehensive database
management system that is compatible with DEC, UNIX, and DOS
platforms. The system is to include a database engine and fourth
generation language tool suite. A requirements analysis was
completed and the RFP was issued in the first quarter of FY91. The
final award for this procurement is scheduled for sometime during the
second quarter of FY92.
High Speed Printers
The printing requirements of the Agency have grown significantly. To
meet end-user demand, procurement activities are being conducted for
the acquisition of high speed non-impact printers to meet the
distributed printing requirements of the Agency. These procurement
activities began in FY91 and RFP release is expected in December of
i yy i
High Performance Computing
The initial steps toward the acquisition of high performance computing
resources are completed. The RFP was finalized and issued in July of
1991. Evaluations are currently taking place and a contract award is
estimated for the third quarter of FY92. The first of two high
performance computers is to be installed at a new EPA Research
Center in Bay City, Michigan. The second high performance
computing system is to be installed at RTP, North Carolina.
International Network Access
This project will acquire the services required to provide the Agency
with international telecommunications resources. The Agency will
provide computing resources to international environmental
management efforts. Proposals are due in December of 1991.
Page
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Architectural Management and Planning Branch
"EPA's Information Technology Experts'
Section 3 - Architectural Issues
During the last year, NDPD reviewed seven strategic architectural issues.
LAN as a National Application Platform
SQL/RDBMS
Logical Mainframe Futures (LMF) and Regional Servers
Email and Document Distribution
Common User Interface (GUI)
AS/400 Utilization
Information Resources Management (IRM) Training
An additional issue has been added this fiscal year to examine the role of
UNIX within the Agency.
For each of the above issues, a project team composed of representatives
from NDPD, OIRM, and other appropriate EPA offices and regions was
established to study the impact of each issue on the future vision of
information resources in EPA. Detailed workplans for each issue were then
established so that progress could be easily tracked.
Evaluating these strategic architectural issues has allowed the Agency to
take a proactive approach to harnessing computing technology for the
benefit of EPA. This review has resulted in standard guidance to assist
regions, program offices, etc. on a variety of technical decisions. These
standards will facilitate the management of information and reduce
maintenance requirements for information systems. Standards are
ultimately helpful to data integration efforts by providing a common basis
for all Agency participants.
November 1991
Pag* 28
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"EPA's Information Technology Experts' Architectural Management and Planning Branch
LAN as a National Application Platform
Description: The integration of PCs, LANs, and LAN file servers
offered the Agency an alternative to the traditional host processor
platform for application processing. However, the Agency had not
established the criteria for discerning which applications required a
host vs. LAN environment. The Agency studied and evaluated the
feasibility of using LANs as platforms for supporting national
applications.
Findings: LANs can serve effectively as national application
platforms. (National applications are Agency resources that are
mission critical, involve significant data sharing, and are widely
utilized.) National applications are ideal for LANs when they are
reliable and when timely access is achieved. Effective data
management and application performance must be unimpaired by the
limitations of LAN technology.
Recommendations: National applications require an Agency-managed
LAN utility complimentary but separate from user LANs. The
organizational responsibilities to support LANs as national application
platforms must be defined. National applications should be managed
through their life cycle to support IRM objectives and information
requirements. Management of the applications must be in accordance
with federal and Agency IRM policy. EPA's System Design and
Development Guidance should be updated to incorporate LANs as
architectural platforms. LAN guidance must respond to changes and
advances in information technology.
Initiatives/Actions: Activity is now underway to complete the policies
and procedures that are necessary to implement EPA's LAN
infrastructure for national applications.
SQL/RDBMS
Description: Two closely related areas experiencing rapid advances in
the information systems industry are client server technologies and
RDBMS. SQL has become the standard method for defining and
manipulating data in a relational database environment. The Agency
assessed the impact of SQL and RDBMS as maturing technologies to
decide whether the Agency should commit resources to acquire,
implement, and utilize this technology.
P«g« 29 November 1991
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Architectural Management and Planning Branch
'EPA '3 Information Technology Expert*
Findings: The relational model has significant inherent strengths that
make it the driving force behind the current development of almost all
database management systems. Furthermore, SQL standardization is
allowing vendors of relational technology to make their products
compatible in a distributed environment that extends across all
hardware platforms. SQL/RDBMS utilization in a networked
environment provides organizations with significant improvements in
decision support, workgroup productivity, performance, connectivity,
and data integration. Integrating environmental data using RDBMS
technology should allow managers, planners, scientists, and users to
incorporate previously inaccessible data into their analyses. RDBMS
technology will also enable a distributed data model for the Agency.
Recommendations: SQL/RDBMS technology should be implemented
on three independent platforms in the Agency. The platforms include
the mainframe, the Novell LAN file servers, and the scientific
processing platform. In order to strengthen competition, the
selections should be related but not dependent.
Initiatives/Actions: The IBM software product DB 2 is being
implemented on the EPA mainframes and will fully support RDBMS
applications in FY93. A competitive procurement was completed for
the Novell file servers. Oracle was selected and implementation
planning has begun. A competitive procurement for RDBMS on the
scientific platform is in progress.
LMF Futures and Regional Servers
Description: The IBM 4381 minicomputers or LMFs in each EPA
region did not reach high utilization levels because of the advent of
PCs and PC LANs. As a result, the LMFs were targeted for removal.
With the exception of VAX minicomputers and the proposed AS/400
computers for image processing, the Agency has backed away from
the use of minicomputers. The goal of this study was to examine the
role of minicomputers in the Agency's future computing architecture.
Findings: There is continuing regional interest in local processing and
the number of national and mission critical applications running in the
regions is likely to increase in the future. The primary technical
consideration was the replacement equipment for the LMF. The major
choices were LAN servers or the AS/400, both of which are being
evaluated separately as strategic architectural issues 1 and 6
respectively.
Pag* 30
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"EPA's Information Technology Experts"
Architectural Management and Planning Branch
Recommendations: The long-term future of the Agency would be
better served by a transition from the LMF technology to LAN servers
in the regional offices.
Initiatives/Actions: The applications that were resident on the LMFs
were transferred to the Agency's mainframe or the regional LANs.
The regional LANs were strengthened with additional hardware and
software. The LMFs have been removed. The initiative is now
operational.
Email and Document Distribution
Description: Since 1983, EPA has provided computer-based
messaging to its employees, affiliates, and contractors. This
messaging, known as Email, uses a centralized mail architecture.
Regardless of destination, all messages are routed through the central
mail service. The major advantages of this central architecture are the
reliability of its message delivery, the ease of message addressing, the
overall ease of system management, and the maintenance of the mail
directory. The Agency evaluated the efficiency and effectiveness of
this architecture as services expanded to include more document
distribution and heavier utilization of premium services, such as
access to the Commerce Business Daily (CBD).
Findings: Email is critical to the Agency's business and ease of use is
vital to everyone. The cost for providing Email through an outside
service is expected to increase significantly, but the Agency can meet
its Email requirements and reduce Email costs through an in-house
solution. With the growth of LANs and the availability of LAN
software, use of LAN-based Email systems is inevitable; however,
current LAN systems alone cannot adequately support the Agency's
Email requirements.
Recommendations: A three-phase approach is recommended for
improving Email. By March of 1992, Phase 1 should maintain the
centralized system architecture, replace purchased Dialcom service
with DEC's ALL-IN-1 installed on Agency equipment, and build a
foundation for inter-system messaging. By FY92/93, Phase 2 should
integrate IBM 3270-based Email software, select Agency LAN Email
software, provide acquisition vehicles, resolve and test X.400
capability with LANs, and gradually integrate LAN users with ALL-IN-
1. Phase 3 should support user movement to LAN-based Email
systems.
Page 31 November 1991
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Architectural Management and Planning Branch "EPA's Information Technology Exports*
Initiatives/Actions: The conversion of Email from Dialcom to DEC's
ALL-IN-1 occurred in August of 1991 and training has been provided
for users. Work on Phases 2 and 3 is now being performed. The
emphasis is being placed on the integration of LANs into the Email
architecture.
Common User Interface
Description: Currently, the Agency develops applications for a variety
of processing platforms and terminals. Each combination of platform
and terminal presents a different interface to the user. The
information systems industry is changing and developing GUI
standards that cross platforms and hardware types. The Agency
evaluated the emerging standards to determine which ones should be
adopted and how many standards would be supported, as well as to
identify standards for such items as function keys, menus, and help
screens.
Findings: A GUI will significantly reduce the learning curve for new
users of applications. There are two primary GUI standards - the
Apple Corporation standard and the portion of IBM's Systems
Application Architecture (SAA) that deals with common user access.
The Apple Corporation standard is proprietary, but IBM SAA's open
standard is available to all vendors.
Recommendations: The Agency should prepare to adopt GUI
standards to provide guidelines to developers and programmers of
EPA applications. The guidelines should define a standard layout for
both text and graphics interfaces. These guidelines should provide
the basis for a common user interface and common user actions that
will produce the benefits attributable to these standards.
Initiatives/Actions: A detailed review of GUI both inside and outside
EPA has been completed. The Agency is in the process of fully
adopting the standard.
AS/400 Utilization
Description: With the award of the image processing contract, there
was a potential for an infusion of IBM AS/400 systems into the EPA.
Given the possibility that these systems might have more capacity
than would be required for image processing, EPA initiated (1) an
examination of the IBM AS/400's role in EPA's computing
architecture, (2) an analysis of directions for the integration of image
and non-image applications, and (3) the development policies for
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"EPA's Information Technology Experts" Architectural Management and Planning Branch
AS/400 usage within EPA. Issues identified as relevant to these three
strategic issues were researched and a consensus was built among
project team members.
Findings: While the IBM AS/400 has served adequately as the
introductory platform for EPA's imaging program, several factors
identified in the research reduced the attractiveness of the IBM
AS/400 as the sole long-term image processing platform for EPA.
With the recent emergence of PC LAN-based imaging systems, there
is little continuing justification to use a different hardware architecture
solely to support imaging.
Recommendations: In view of the preliminary research results, the
AS/400 will probably not be a significant component of the EPA
architecture outside image processing.
Initiatives/Actions: The issue has been completed and the AS/400 is
being used to support image processing.
IRM Training
Description: As the Agency continues to expend enormous resources
to acquire or enhance its computing architecture, it must also find
ways to maintain the dynamism of an aging workforce and to
improve the educational preparation of all workers. To address these
needs, the Agency examined the environments of EPA and the most
promising technological tools and methods that would create the
training system capabilities needed for the future.
Findings: To meet future employee skill and information needs,
training will have to be available on demand at any site for multiple
purposes and audiences. This will require centralized planning and
centralized delivery. It must demonstrate a measurable impact on job
performance while controlling costs. The majority of training should
be delivered at the worksite, embedded in systems with individualized
help and training sessions. The amount of formal classroom training
will be reduced and selected specifically for programs such as the
introduction of major new automated systems. It will become more
efficient to bring the training to the students by means of distance
learning technology either at workstations or at centralized training
facilities.
Page 33
NovwnDer laal
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Architectural Management and Planning Branch
EPA's Information Technology Experts'
Recommendations: The EPA should develop embedded training in
major information systems in order to increase training at the
workstation levels. EPA must place a high priority on establishing
guidelines for new training technologies and employee training
methodologies, as well as expanding training staff skills to exploit the
power of individualized, interactive media. EPA should look to a
centrally managed system of career-long tracking for employee
development and a comprehensive evaluation monitoring system that
will link training effectiveness and job performance. To fully
implement an integrated training system, EPA should consider a
reassessment of the role of training and the level of advocacy within
the organization and, most important, the creation of a commission to
oversee the various initiatives that will be required.
Initiatives/Actions: The Agency's senior management is in the
process of reviewing the recommendations and making an
implementation selection.
UNIX
Description: EPA has accepted the UNIX operating system as a step
toward vendor independence in its procurement process. This
architecture issue, which began in FY92, will address the major issues
involved in the Agency's implementation of UNIX.
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"EPA's Information Technology Experts"
Architectural Management and Planninfl Branch
Section 4 - AMPB and the IT AS Contract
Architectural Management and Planning Branch
The Architectural Management and Planning Branch (AMPB) of the National
Data Processing Division (NDPD) is the agent of change in the information
technology environment of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
AMPB works closely with the Office of Information Resources Management
(OIRM) at Headquarters, information system managers in program offices,
regional offices, and laboratories to identify needs and develop new
architectures on which the Agency's data systems are implemented. Key
functions performed by AMPB include:
Planning for Agency-wide computers, software, and
telecommunications resources
Determining the Agency's communications system needs
Performing technology assessments and assisting Agency IRM
management in establishing architectural standards
Conducting Agency-wide needs analysis for information technology
systems
Conducting Agency-wide acquisitions of information technology
resources
Supporting NDPD in the management and modernization of
information technology platforms and networks that are operated or
supported by NDPD
Assisting OIRM in generating system development guidelines,
specifically the platform selection guidelines for national data
systems
The organization chart on the next page identifies the specific roles of the
technology managers in AMPB. In addition to these government
employees, AMPB uses the resources of the ITAS contract with Viar &
Company, Inc. and the Program Support contract with UNISYS to
accomplish its mission.
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Architectural Management and Planning Branch
"EPA's Information Technology Exptrts'
AMPB Organization
(919)541-2931
Zeugner.Jody
Client/Server and
UNIX
(919)541-3584
Hinds.Timothy
Carolyn Chambtee
Microcomputers and
Local Area Networks
(919)541-2553
Cham Wee. Carolyn
George LaForest
Acquisitions and EMAP
(919)541-7905
LaForest George
Branch Chief
(919)541-2538
Harris.Ted
Environmental Protection Agency
Architectural Mangement and Planning Branch
Mail Drop MD-34
Research Triangle Park, NC 27711
FAX (919) 541-1191
Becky Patrick
Branch Secretary
(919) 541-4470
Patrick-Rebecca
(919)541-2740
Woriey.Don
(919)541-2641
Harris.Wade
John Gibson
High Performance Computing
and Capacity Planning
(919)541-0112
Gtoson.John
(919)541-1057
Clemmer.Tom
revised July 1992
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EPA's Information Technology Experts'
Architectural Management and Planning Branch
Information Technology Architecture Support Contract
The Agency has contracted with the ITAS contract team (Viar & Company,
Inc., Technology Planning and Management Corporation (TPMC), and MNG
and Keane, Inc.) to provide professional service. These services are
acquired under the technical direction of the NDPD's AMPB.
The ITAS contract team provides Agency-wide support in performing the
following.
Management requirements and feasibility studies
Systems design
Systems evaluation
Architectural strategy and planning
Acquisition support
Telecommunications network planning and design
- Data networks (WAN and LAN)
- Voice networks
- Videoconferencing systems
Capacity planning and performance management
ADP resource management support
Telecommunications resource management
In addition, the contract provides for the acquisition of national experts in
several information technology areas (e.g., database management systems,
optical disk technology, voice/data communications, distributed processing,
CASE tools, etc.). The ITAS contract permits limited acquisition of
hardware and software to perform technology assessments, pilot
evaluation programs, and prototype development.
Ted Harris, AMPB Chief, acts as the contract project officer and performs
technical and administrative management for the contract.
This document will be updated on a periodic basis as architectural
strategies evolve and are approved by our IRM managers. Your comments
on this document are appreciated. Please direct them to Ted Harris (FTS
629-2538 or Email ID: Harris.Ted).
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