Strange as it may seem given the widespread adoption of Unix in Europe, the US commercial market is still largely virgin territory for Unix, so Unisys Corp has introduced a Starter Plan for new US users of its 5000 and 6000 series of Unix boxes. The package is intended to accelerate the transition from hardware installation to effective system use and to enhance the appeal of Unix System V. Unisys says the U Series Starter Plan specifically calls for active end-user participation during system setup – because end-users are key players in the installation process, they quickly become familiar with the operating system and can operate their systems efficiently in a short time. According to Unisys the Plan is implemented in five phases: taking customers from an initial review of their order, software levels, system hardware and operating system requirements through to a post-installation session where any possible changes or improvements that might enhance customer operating procedures are recommended. The phased approach applies the mainframer’s Professional Project Practices family of business methodologies, techniques and tools.
