An efficient and world standard computing system at ACRI has benefited all research programs through their use in data processing, storage, statistical analysis, modelling and the development of end-user packages. In addition the network services located at ACRI provide printing services and communication which includes e-mail and website.

The provision of these services has underpinned the quality of research conducted at ACRI and personnel rely heavily on continued and uninterrupted access to computing support. In many instances many initiatives for the cotton industry instigated by researchers and extension officers rely solely on access to computing support provided by this project.

With the increase in computing power and staff at ACRI, the need for sustained technical support directly to the user has expanded. The systems manager now supports 63 CSIRO, 49 NSW Ag and 5 others computer users. The approximate total number of computer terminals is 145. The general recommendation across the IT industry is that a system manager service approximately 50 computer terminals. The computer systems manager also supports the network servers (backup and communication) and phone system at ACRI.

This project supported the funding of Tony Pfeiffer who is an experienced Network manager and is permanently based at ACRI to provide network and computing support. He is available to all people at ACRI to provide computing assistance when necessary. He works closely with CSIRO IT and NSW Department of Primary Industries to coordinate further investment in computing services and infrastructure at the site. All project objectives have were achieved with a high degree of success enabling a reliable and functioning computer network and accessible computing services at ACRI which benefited all research and extension staff.