The chain concept is introduced to explain how large-scale information infrastructures so often fail and sometimes even backfire. Next, the assessment framework of the doctrine of Chain-computerisation and its chain analysis procedure are outlined. In this procedure chain description precedes assessing the necessity and the feasibility of large-scale chain communication systems. The nature of the assessment tools is explained as well as the way they can be used. With the results of a chain analysis a chain information strategy can be defined focused on the development and maintainability of chain information systems. An organisation strategy can be derived from the chain analysis results, as well. Some interesting results are presented based on the comparison of twenty case studies in the context of the chain research project at Utrecht University. Finally, conclusions are drawn and some major challenges identified. Notice that this founding article is meant as a guide to future case studies. A vocabulary of the relevant terms and concepts of Chain-computerisation in relation to chain analysis is added to this article.