CIS-251 Final Exam Review

Define Data and Information

Identify Examples of Data and Information

Data:

Definition: Raw, unprocessed facts and figures that lack context or meaning.

Characteristics: Objective, structured, and often quantitative.

Example: Numbers, text, images, or symbols without interpretation.

Information:

Definition: Processed and organized data that provides context, relevance, and meaning.

Characteristics: Meaningful, useful, and relevant to decision-making or understanding.

Example: Reports, summaries, insights, or analysis derived from data.

Define Business Intelligence

A technology-driven process of analyzing and presenting actionable information to help business leaders make informed decisions.

Describe What Each of the Typical Departments/Functional Areas Does

Finance: Responsible for managing the organization's financial resources, including budgeting, financial planning, accounting, and financial reporting.

Human Resources (HR): Manages all aspects of employee-related activities, including recruitment, training, compensation, benefits administration, performance management, and employee relations.

Marketing: Focuses on promoting the organization's products or services to attract and retain customers. This includes market research, advertising, branding, product development, and customer relationship management.

Operations/Production: Handles the day-to-day activities involved in producing goods or delivering services. This includes manufacturing processes, supply chain management, quality control, and logistics.

Sales: Responsible for generating revenue by selling the organization's products or services to customers. This involves identifying potential customers, managing sales pipelines, negotiating contracts, and maintaining client relationships.

Information Technology (IT): Manages the organization's technology infrastructure and systems. This includes network administration, software development,

Define Systems Thinking

Examples of Input, Process, Output, and Feedback

Differentiate Systems Thinking From a Management Information System

Systems Thinking:

Definition: Systems thinking is an approach to problem-solving and decision-making that considers the interactions and interdependencies among components within a system. It emphasizes understanding the holistic behavior of systems rather than focusing solely on individual parts.

Example of Input: Data or information that enters the system, such as customer orders or raw materials.

Example of Process: The activities or operations that transform inputs into outputs within the system, such as manufacturing processes or decision-making processes.

Example of Output: The results or outcomes produced by the system, such as finished products or reports.

Example of Feedback: Information that loops back into the system to modify or adjust its behavior, such as customer feedback or performance metrics.

Difference: Systems thinking is an approach to problem-solving that focuses on understanding the interconnectedness and behavior of systems as a whole. On the other hand, a Management Information System (MIS) is a specific type of information system designed to provide managers with relevant information for decision-making and planning within an organization.

Define a Business Strategy

How Businesses can Use SWOT Analyses

Business Strategy:

Definition: A business strategy is a plan or approach adopted by an organization to achieve its long-term goals and objectives. It outlines the direction and scope of the business, including how it will compete in the market, allocate resources, and create value for stakeholders.

How Businesses can Use SWOT Analyses:

Businesses use SWOT analyses to assess their current situation, identify areas for improvement, capitalize on strengths, mitigate weaknesses, exploit opportunities, and address potential threats. This helps in formulating effective strategies and making informed decisions.

Explain the Difference Between Competitive Advantage and Competitive Intelligence

Competitive Advantage:

Competitive advantage refers to the unique strengths or capabilities that enable a business to outperform its competitors in the marketplace.

Competitive Intelligence:

Competitive intelligence involves the systematic gathering, analysis, and interpretation of information about competitors, market trends, and industry dynamics.

Define First Mover Advantages

Identify Examples of First Mover Advantages

First Mover Advantages:

First mover advantages refer to the benefits that a company can gain by being the first to enter a new market, introduce a new product or service, or pioneer a new technology.

Examples of First Mover Advantages:

Apple's introduction of the iPhone revolutionized the smartphone industry and established Apple as a dominant player in the market, giving it a significant first mover advantage.

Explain Why a Business Uses Porter's Five Forces Analysis

A business uses Porter's Five Forces analysis to assess the competitive dynamics and attractiveness of an industry.

Define Porter's Five Forces

Identify Examples for Each of Porter's Five Forces

Porter's Five Forces is a framework developed by Michael Porter to analyze the competitive dynamics and attractiveness of an industry. It identifies five key forces that shape competition within an industry and influence its profitability.

Threat of New Entrants:

The airline industry has high barriers to entry due to factors such as high capital requirements, regulatory approvals, and established brand loyalty.

Bargaining Power of Buyers:

In the automobile industry, buyers have significant bargaining power due to the availability of multiple options, low switching costs, and access to information.

Bargaining Power of Suppliers:

In the smartphone manufacturing industry, suppliers of key components such as processors and display screens have significant bargaining power due to their specialized products and limited alternative suppliers.

Threat of Substitute Products or Services:

In the soft drink industry, the threat of substitute products is high due to the availability of alternatives like bottled water, fruit juices, and energy drinks.

Intensity of Competitive Rivalry

The smartphone industry is characterized by intense competitive rivalry among major players like Apple, Samsung, and Huawei, leading to constant innovation, price wars, and aggressive marketing strategies.

Explain Why a Business Uses Porter's Three Generic Strategies

business uses Porter's Three Generic Strategies to achieve a sustainable competitive advantage and position itself effectively within its industry. These strategies help businesses focus on distinct ways to compete and create value for customers.

Define Porter's Three Generic Strategies

Identify Examples of Each of Porter's Three Generic Strategies

Cost Leadership: Strategy focused on becoming the lowest-cost producer in the industry while maintaining acceptable quality. Example: Walmart is known for its cost leadership strategy in retail, offering a wide range of products at consistently low prices by leveraging economies of scale, efficient supply chain management, and operational efficiencies.

Differentiation: Strategy focused on offering unique or distinctive products or services that stand out from competitors. Example: Apple differentiates its products through innovative design, user-friendly interfaces, and ecosystem integration. Its products, such as the iPhone and MacBook, are perceived as premium and unique, allowing Apple to command higher prices and build brand loyalty.

Focus (or Niche) Strategy: Strategy focused on serving a specific market segment, niche, or geographic area. Example: Rolex focuses on the luxury watch market, offering high-quality, prestigious timepieces to affluent customers. By catering to a niche market segment that values craftsmanship and exclusivity, Rolex is able to maintain premium pricing and brand reputation.

Explain Why a Business Performs a Value Chain Anaylsis

Define Primary and Support Value Activities

Examples of Primary and Support Value Activities

A business performs a Value Chain Analysis to understand the internal activities and processes that create value for the organization and its customers.

Primary Value Activities:

These are directly involved in the production and delivery of goods or services. Examples include: Inbound Logistics: Receiving, storing, and distributing inputs.

Support Value Activities:

These activities provide the necessary support and infrastructure for the primary value activities to function effectively. Examples include: Procurement: Sourcing and purchasing raw materials or inputs.

Examples of Primary and Support Value Activities:

Primary Value Activities: Example: In the automotive industry, operations involve manufacturing processes such as assembly, welding, and painting to produce vehicles.

Support Value Activities: Example: In the technology sector, technology development activities include research and development of new products, software development, and maintenance of IT infrastructure.

Define Operational, Managerial, and Strategic Decisions

Identify Examples of Operational, Managerial, and Strategic Decisions

Operational Decisions:

Definition: Operational decisions are routine, day-to-day decisions that are made to ensure the smooth functioning of an organization's operations.

Examples:Setting production schedules.

Managerial Decisions:

Definition: Managerial decisions are made by middle-level managers to allocate resources, coordinate activities, and achieve organizational objectives.

Examples:Setting departmental budgets.

Strategic Decisions:

Definition: Strategic decisions are high-level decisions made by top-level management to set the long-term direction of the organization and achieve its goals.

Examples:Entering new markets or industries.

Decribe the Six Steps in the Decission Making Process

Identifying the Problem or Opportunity: This involves recognizing that a decision needs to be made, whether it's to address a problem or take advantage of an opportunity.

Gathering Information: Once the problem or opportunity is identified, relevant information needs to be collected to understand the situation fully. This may involve research, data analysis, or consulting with experts.

Identifying Alternatives: After gathering information, potential solutions or courses of action are generated. These alternatives should be evaluated based on their feasibility and potential outcomes.

Evaluating Alternatives: Each alternative is then assessed to determine its pros and cons, weighing factors such as cost, risk, and potential benefits.

Making the Decision: Based on the evaluation of alternatives, a decision is made on which course of action to pursue. This decision should align with the goals and objectives of the individual or organization.

Implementing the Decision: Once the decision is made, it needs to be put into action. This may involve developing a plan, allocating resources, and communicating the decision to relevant stakeholders.

Describe the Types of Decisions (Semi-Structured, Unstructured, and Structered) Made by Each of the Types of Management (Operational, Managerial, and Strategic)

Operational Management: Structured Decisions: Routine and repetitive decisions made regularly in the day-to-day operations of an organization. They usually have well-defined procedures and clear outcomes.

Managerial Management: Semi-Structured Decisions: These decisions are somewhat repetitive but may not have clear procedures for resolution. They require some analysis and judgment but are not completely novel.

Strategic Management: Unstructured Decisions: These are complex and novel decisions that are made at the highest levels of an organization. They involve high levels of uncertainty and ambiguity, and there may not be clear guidelines or procedures for resolving them. Strategic decisions often have long-term implications for the organization.

Define KPIs and CSFs

How Businesses Measure the Success of Their MIS Projects

KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) are quantifiable metrics used to evaluate the success of an organization in achieving its strategic and operational goals. They provide a way to measure performance and progress towards objectives.

CSFs (Critical Success Factors) are the key areas or activities that are essential for an organization to achieve its goals. They represent the factors that must be effectively managed or addressed to ensure the success of a project or initiative.

Businesses measure the success of their Management Information Systems (MIS) projects through a combination of KPIs and CSFs.

Define Efficiency and Effectiveness with Respect to MIS

Identify Examples of Efficiency and Effectiveness with Respect to MIS

Efficiency in Management Information Systems (MIS) refers to how well resources such as time, money, and effort are utilized to achieve desired outcomes. It involves minimizing waste and maximizing productivity in the use of technology and processes.

Effectiveness in MIS refers to the degree to which the system or technology achieves its intended objectives and contributes to the overall goals of the organization. It focuses on how well the system meets user needs and delivers the desired outcomes.

Examples of Efficiency in MIS:

Streamlining data entry processes to reduce manual errors and save time.

Implementing automated workflows to reduce processing time and improve productivity.

Consolidating software systems to reduce licensing costs and simplify management.

Optimizing server usage to reduce energy consumption and operational expenses.

Examples of Effectiveness in MIS:

Developing a customer relationship management (CRM) system that improves customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Implementing a business intelligence (BI) system that provides timely and accurate insights for decision-making.

Deploying an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system that integrates business processes and improves operational efficiency.

Creating a knowledge management system that enhances collaboration and innovation among employees.

Defferentiate Benchmarks from Best Practices

benchmarks are quantitative standards used for comparison, while best practices are qualitative guidelines or strategies recognized for their effectiveness in achieving desired outcomes.

Define Operational Support Systems

Define Managerial Support Systems

Define Strategic Support Systems

Define the Inputs, Processes, and Outputs Associated with Each

Identify Examples of All

Operational Support Systems (OSS):

Definition: Information systems that facilitate routine operational activities within an organization.

Inputs: Transactional data, customer information, inventory levels, etc.

Processes: Transaction processing, order fulfillment, inventory management, etc.

Outputs: Processed transactions, updated inventory records, customer invoices, etc.

Example: Point-of-sale (POS) systems, inventory management software, customer relationship management (CRM) systems.

Managerial Support Systems (MSS):

Definition: Information systems that assist middle and lower management in decision-making and planning.

Inputs: Data from operational systems, financial data, market research, etc.

Processes: Data analysis, reporting, forecasting, budgeting, resource allocation, etc.

Outputs: Management reports, financial statements, budget plans, etc.

Example: Management reporting systems, decision support systems (DSS), executive information systems (EIS).

Strategic Support Systems (SSS):

Definition: Information systems that support top-level management in strategic planning and decision-making.

Inputs: Market trends, competitive analysis, internal performance data, etc.

Processes: Strategic analysis, scenario planning, risk assessment, etc.

Outputs: Strategic plans, competitive intelligence reports, long-term forecasts, etc.

Example: Business intelligence (BI) systems, strategic planning software, competitive intelligence systems.

Distinguish Between Customer-Facing and Business-Facing Processes

customer-facing processes focus on interactions with customers, while business-facing processes are internal operations that support the delivery of products or services. Both types of processes are essential for the success of an organization, but they serve different purposes and stakeholders.

Distinguish Between As-Is and To-Be Process Models

the As-Is process model reflects the current state of a process, while the To-Be process model outlines the desired future state after improvements have been made.

Define Workflow

Describe How Businesses Use Workflow and Information Systems and Technology to Improve Business Processes by Automating, Streamlining, and Reengineering.

Workflow:

Definition: Workflow refers to the sequence of tasks, activities, or processes that are required to complete a specific business operation or project. It outlines the steps, decisions, and interactions involved in accomplishing a particular task from start to finish.

leveraging workflow, information systems, and technology enables businesses to automate repetitive tasks, streamline processes for efficiency, and reengineer operations for significant improvements in performance and competitiveness.

Define Disruptive Technologies

Identify Examples of Disruptive Technologies

Describe How the Internet can Cause Business Disruption

Disruptive Technologies:

Definition: Disruptive technologies are innovations that significantly alter the way industries or markets operate, often by introducing new products, services, or business models that disrupt existing markets or create entirely new ones.

Examples of Disruptive Technologies:

Smartphones: The introduction of smartphones revolutionized the mobile phone industry by combining communication, computing, and internet access into a single device, disrupting traditional feature phone markets and creating new ecosystems of apps and services.

The internet can cause business disruption in several ways:

Direct-to-Consumer Models: Companies can sell directly to consumers through online channels, bypassing traditional retail intermediaries.

Marketplaces and Platforms: Online marketplaces and platforms connect buyers and sellers directly, disrupting traditional retail and distribution models.

Digital Transformation: Businesses can digitize processes, products, and services, disrupting traditional analog industries and business models.

Globalization: The internet enables businesses to reach international markets, competing with local incumbents and disrupting geographical barriers to entry.

Disintermediation: Middlemen or intermediaries can be eliminated through online channels, disrupting established value chains and distribution networks.

Distinguish Between Ebusiness and Ecommerce

Describe the 6 Ebusiness Tools Used for Connecting and Communicating

while e-commerce is a component of e-business, e-business encompasses a broader range of activities beyond just online transactions, including marketing, customer service, collaboration, and internal operations.

Regarding the six e-business tools used for connecting and communicating, here they are:

Email:

Email is a fundamental tool for communication in e-business, enabling businesses to send messages, announcements, promotions, and updates to customers, partners, and employees.

Instant Messaging (IM):

IM allows real-time communication between individuals or groups, facilitating quick exchanges of information, collaboration, and decision-making.

Video Conferencing:

Video conferencing enables face-to-face communication and collaboration over long distances, facilitating virtual meetings, presentations, and discussions among team members, clients, or partners.

Social Media:

Social media platforms provide opportunities for businesses to connect and engage with customers, build brand awareness, and share content through channels like Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram.

Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Systems:

CRM systems help businesses manage interactions with current and potential customers, storing customer data, tracking interactions, and facilitating targeted marketing campaigns and customer support.

Collaboration Tools:

Collaboration tools such as project management software, document sharing platforms, and virtual workspaces enable teams to collaborate efficiently, share files, assign tasks, and track progress on projects regardless of location.

Distinguish Between Information Reach and Information Richness

while information reach focuses on the ability to reach a wide audience, information richness emphasizes the depth and quality of information conveyed through communication channels. Both aspects are important considerations when selecting communication channels and designing communication strategies.

Define Disintermediation

Disintermediation is the process by which intermediaries, such as brokers, agents, or middlemen, are eliminated from a supply chain or transactional process.

Define and Give Examples of Personalization and How It Can be Used in Ebusiness

Personalization is the customization of products, services, content, or experiences to meet the specific needs, preferences, and characteristics of individual customers or users.

Examples of Personalization:

Product Recommendations: Online retailers use personalized product recommendations based on a customer's browsing history, purchase behavior, and preferences. For example, Amazon suggests products similar to ones a customer has previously viewed or purchased.

How Personalization Can be Used in E-business:

E-businesses can use personalization to create more engaging and relevant experiences for their customers, leading to increased satisfaction, loyalty, and sales.

Define the Four Basic Ebusiness Models and Identify Examples of Businessess Following Each Type of Model

The four basic e-business models are:

Business-to-Consumer (B2C):

In the B2C model, businesses sell products or services directly to consumers through online channels.

Examples:Amazon: An online marketplace where consumers can purchase a wide range of products, from books and electronics to clothing and household goods.

Business-to-Business (B2B):

In the B2B model, businesses sell products or services to other businesses through online channels.

Examples:Alibaba: An e-commerce platform that connects businesses with suppliers and manufacturers worldwide, facilitating bulk purchases of goods and materials.

Consumer-to-Consumer (C2C):

In the C2C model, consumers buy and sell products or services to each other through online platforms.

Examples:eBay: An online auction and marketplace where individuals can buy and sell a wide variety of new and used items.

Consumer-to-Business (C2B):

In the C2B model, consumers offer products or services to businesses through online channels.

Examples:Upwork: An online platform where freelancers and independent contractors offer their services to businesses in need of talent for various projects.

Define Open Source Systems and its Relationship to User-Contributed Content

Open source systems are software systems whose source code is made freely available to the public, allowing anyone to view, modify, and distribute the code.

The relationship between open source systems and user-contributed content lies in the collaborative nature of their development processes.

Distinguish Between Explicit and Tacit Knowledge

Explicit Knowledge:

Definition: Explicit knowledge is formal and codified knowledge that is easily articulated, documented, and shared. It can be easily communicated and transferred through written or verbal means.

Tacit Knowledge:

Definition: Tacit knowledge is informal, experiential, and deeply rooted knowledge that is difficult to articulate, codify, or transfer through formalized means. It is often based on personal experiences, insights, intuitions, and skills.

Define Social Networking Analysis

Social Network Analysis provides valuable insights into the structure, dynamics, and functioning of social networks, enabling researchers, practitioners, and organizations to understand and leverage social relationships for various purposes.

Define Mashups

Mashups refer to the combination or integration of multiple sources of data, content, or functionality from disparate sources to create a new, unified application, service, or product.

Describe Egovernement Business Models

E-government, short for electronic government, refers to the use of digital technologies, particularly the internet, to facilitate the delivery of government services, information, and interactions with citizens, businesses, and other governmental entities. E-government business models encompass the strategies and approaches that governments employ to leverage digital technologies in the provision of public services and governance.

Describe Mbusiness and Differentiate it From Mcommerce

M-business encompasses a broader range of business activities and processes conducted using mobile technologies, while M-commerce specifically refers to commercial transactions conducted through mobile devices. M-commerce is a subset of M-business, focusing specifically on the commercial aspect of business conducted via mobile devices.

Define Information Ethics and Differentiate Between the Terms "legal" and Ethical and Between the Terms "confidentiality" and "privacy"

Information ethics refers to the ethical principles, standards, and guidelines governing the use, access, dissemination, and management of information in various contexts.

while legal standards are based on laws and regulations and are enforceable by legal authorities, ethical standards are based on moral principles and guide individuals' conduct based on considerations of right and wrong. Similarly, confidentiality focuses on protecting sensitive information from unauthorized access or disclosure, while privacy emphasizes individuals' rights to control their personal information and data.

Define Intellectual Property and differentiate between copyrights, trademarks and patents

Intellectual Property (IP) refers to intangible creations of the human intellect that have value and are protected by law.

copyrights protect creative works, trademarks protect brand identifiers, and patents protect inventions. Each type of intellectual property right serves a different purpose and provides exclusive rights to creators or owners in different areas of intellectual endeavor.

Differentiate between six types of Epolicies that you are likely to find in the workplace

These e-policies play a crucial role in promoting responsible and secure use of technology resources, protecting sensitive information, and ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements within the workplace.

Explain how companies use information management, governance and compliance toprotect and manage information

Companies use information management, governance, and compliance practices to protect and manage information effectively, ensuring its confidentiality, integrity, availability, and usability while adhering to legal and regulatory requirements.

Describe information security and security threats (like downtime) caused by hackers,viruses, and worms

Information security refers to the practice of protecting the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information assets from unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, destruction, or disruption. It encompasses various measures, controls, and practices aimed at safeguarding sensitive information and mitigating risks associated with cybersecurity threats.

Define and provide examples of each of the three primary security areas: (1) authenticationand authorization, (2) prevention and resistance, and (3) detection and response

Authentication and Authorization:

Authentication: Authentication is the process of verifying the identity of users or entities attempting to access a system or resource.Example: User authentication using passwords, biometric authentication (fingerprint or facial recognition)

Authorization: Authorization determines the level of access or permissions granted to authenticated users or entities based on their identity and privileges.

Example: Role-based access control (RBAC) systems that assign specific roles or permissions to users based on their job responsibilities or organizational hierarchy.

Prevention and Resistance:

Prevention: Prevention measures aim to stop security threats and attacks from occurring or accessing the organization's systems or data.Example: Firewalls that filter network traffic and block unauthorized access to or from the organization's network.

Resistance: Resistance measures focus on minimizing the impact of security breaches or attacks by hardening systems, encrypting data, and implementing resilience measures.

Example: Encryption techniques such as data encryption in transit and data encryption at rest to protect sensitive information from unauthorized access.

Detection and Response:

Detection: Detection mechanisms monitor systems, networks, and activities to identify security breaches or suspicious behavior as quickly as possible.Example: Security information and event management (SIEM) systems that aggregate and analyze log data from various sources

Response: Response measures involve taking appropriate actions to contain, mitigate, and remediate security incidents or breaches once they are detected.

Example: Incident response plans that outline procedures for identifying, containing, and responding to security incidents.

Define components of MIS infrastructure and three primary types of MIS infrastructure (andwhy enterprise architects focus on them)

Hardware:

Hardware components include computers, servers, storage devices, networking equipment, and peripherals such as printers and scanners.

Software:

Software components encompass operating systems, database management systems (DBMS), application software, and middleware.

Networks:

Network infrastructure includes wired and wireless networks, routers, switches, firewalls, and other networking devices.

Data Resources:

Data resources comprise databases, data warehouses, data marts, and data repositories containing structured and unstructured data.

Personnel:

Personnel components include IT professionals, system administrators, database administrators, network engineers, and other personnel responsible for managing and maintaining the MIS infrastructure.

Three primary types of MIS infrastructure include:

Hardware Infrastructure:

Hardware infrastructure comprises the physical components of the MIS system, including servers, computers, storage devices, and networking equipment.

Software Infrastructure:

Software infrastructure includes operating systems, database management systems, middleware, and application software required to support MIS applications and functions.

Network Infrastructure:

Network infrastructure encompasses wired and wireless networks, routers, switches, firewalls, and other networking devices that facilitate communication and data exchange within the organization.

Enterprise architects focus on these types of MIS infrastructure because they form the foundational components that enable the organization to effectively leverage technology to support its business operations, achieve its strategic objectives, and gain a competitive advantage.

As part of supporting operations, an information infrastructure provides what three primaryelements?

As part of supporting change, describe the seven characteristics of agile infrastructure

As part of supporting operations, an information infrastructure typically provides three primary elements:

Data Storage and Management

Network Connectivity and Communication

Computing Resources and Processing Power

Describe ways IT equipment negatively affects the environment, components of asustainable MIS infrastructure and the ways that has more positive impacts on theenvironment

By implementing a sustainable MIS infrastructure that incorporates energy-efficient hardware, virtualization and cloud computing, renewable energy sources, and lifecycle management practices, organizations can reduce their environmental footprint and contribute to environmental sustainability while maintaining efficient and effective IT operations.

Differentiate between the four different traits that determine the value of information

accuracy emphasizes the correctness and reliability of information, timeliness focuses on the availability of information when needed, relevance highlights the significance and applicability of information to the decision or task at hand, and completeness ensures that information contains all necessary details and context for understanding the subject fully. Together, these traits help determine the value of information by assessing its quality, utility, and suitability for supporting decision-making and achieving organizational objectives.

Describe a relational database model and differentiate it from a relational databasemanagement system

the relational database model is a conceptual framework for organizing data into tables and establishing relationships between them, while a relational database management system (RDBMS) is software that implements and manages relational databases, providing tools and functionality for creating, querying, and managing the data stored in the database.

Describe the business advantages of a relational database and how databases provideadvantages to websites

relational databases offer several business advantages, including data integrity, security, flexibility, and analysis capabilities, while integrating databases with websites enhances their functionality, interactivity, and user experience, enabling businesses to achieve their goals more effectively in the digital age.

Differentiate between relational integrity constraints and business critical integrityconstraints

relational integrity constraints are database-level rules that govern the structure and relationships of data within a relational database, while business critical integrity constraints are business-specific rules or requirements that govern the integrity and quality of data based on the organization's operational needs and business processes. While relational integrity constraints focus on maintaining the integrity of database structures and relationships, business critical integrity constraints focus on ensuring the accuracy and consistency of data within the context of business operations.

Describe how businesses use data warehouses and data marts to provide businessintelligence and how all three support business decision-making

businesses leverage data warehouses and data marts as central repositories for storing and analyzing data, while business intelligence solutions enable them to extract insights and derive value from the data. Together, these components support business decision-making by providing timely, accurate, and actionable information to stakeholders across the organization, helping drive strategic initiatives, optimize operations, and gain a competitive advantage in the marketplace.

Describe why data quality is so important in a database used by a business to aid indecision-making

data quality is essential for decision-making in a business database because it ensures accuracy, reliability, and completeness of information, which are critical for strategic planning, operational efficiency, compliance, risk management, innovation, and overall business success. By prioritizing data quality, businesses can make informed decisions, drive performance improvements, and maintain a competitive edge in the marketplace.

Describe the three organizational methods used to analyze big data and give examples of each

Descriptive Analytics:

Descriptive analytics focuses on summarizing historical data to provide insights into past events and trends, helping organizations understand what has happened.

Examples:

Sales Analysis: Analyzing sales data to identify top-selling products, seasonal trends, customer demographics, and geographical sales patterns.

Predictive Analytics:

Predictive analytics aims to forecast future outcomes or trends based on historical data and statistical algorithms, allowing organizations to anticipate what is likely to happen.

Examples:

Churn Prediction: Using historical customer data to predict which customers are at risk of churn (cancellation) based on factors such as usage patterns, customer interactions, and satisfaction scores.

Prescriptive Analytics:

Prescriptive analytics goes beyond descriptive and predictive analysis to recommend specific actions or strategies to achieve desired outcomes, helping organizations determine what actions to take.

Examples:

Supply Chain Optimization: Using prescriptive analytics to optimize inventory levels, production schedules, and logistics routes to minimize costs, reduce lead times, and improve service levels.

Define and the three types of network categories

These network categories serve different purposes and have varying characteristics in terms of size, coverage, speed, and connectivity. LANs are suitable for local communication and resource sharing within a confined area, while WANs enable long-distance connectivity and interconnection between geographically dispersed locations. MANs bridge the gap between LANs and WANs, providing high-speed connectivity within metropolitan areas. By understanding the distinctions between these network categories, organizations can design and implement network infrastructures that meet their specific requirements for communication, collaboration, and data exchange.

Distinguish between Regional and National Service Providers

In summary, while both regional and national service providers offer telecommunications services, they differ in terms of coverage area, infrastructure, market focus, competitive landscape, and customer service. Regional providers serve specific geographic regions with smaller-scale infrastructure and targeted services, while national providers operate across entire countries with extensive infrastructure and a broad range of offerings.

Define network access technologies such as DSL, Internet Cable Connections (withmodems) and T1 Lines

In summary, DSL, internet cable connections (with modems), and T1 lines are network access technologies that provide high-speed internet access to end-user devices using different transmission mediums and technologies. Each technology has its advantages and limitations, and the choice of network access technology depends on factors such as availability, speed requirements, reliability, and cost considerations.

Describe how TCP/IP works

In summary, TCP/IP works by breaking data into packets, encapsulating them with headers, addressing and routing the packets across networks using IP addresses, ensuring reliable communication using TCP, and providing various application layer protocols for specific services and applications. This modular and hierarchical approach enables TCP/IP to support scalable, reliable, and interoperable communication across diverse networks, including the internet.

Define network convergence and distinguish between unified communications, Voice overIP, technologies like Skype which use a Peer to Peer network, and IPTV

In summary, network convergence enables the integration of various communication services and technologies onto a single network infrastructure, facilitating unified communications, VoIP, P2P networks like Skype, and IPTV. These technologies leverage IP-based communication protocols and the flexibility of converged networks to deliver seamless, cost-effective, and feature-rich communication and entertainment experiences to users.

Describe how firms use intranets, extranets and virtual private networks

In summary, firms use intranets, extranets, and virtual private networks to facilitate internal and external communication, collaboration, and access to resources securely. These technologies enable organizations to improve productivity, streamline workflows, enhance customer and partner relationships, and protect sensitive data while maintaining control over access and security.

Describe and compare personal networks to wireless LANs (and Wi-Fi), Mans (and WiMax)and WANs (satellite and cell phone).

In summary, personal networks are used for communication between personal devices in close proximity, while wireless LANs (Wi-Fi) provide wireless connectivity within limited areas like homes or offices. MANs (WiMax) cover larger geographic regions, offering wireless broadband access to urban areas, while WANs like satellite and cell phone networks provide extensive coverage and mobility for internet access and communication over large distances. Each type of network serves different purposes and has unique characteristics in terms of coverage, speed, and mobility.

Describe and be able to identify examples of Radio Frequency Identification, GlobalPositioning Systems, Geographic Information Systems, and Location Based Services

These technologies play crucial roles in various industries and applications, enabling efficient asset tracking, precise navigation, spatial analysis, and personalized services based on location information.

Compare and contrast forward and backward integration and describe how ERP can beused to integrate systems using various architectures (mobile, cloud/SaaS, and tieredarchitectures)

In summary, ERP systems play a critical role in integrating various systems and processes within organizations, regardless of the architecture used. Whether leveraging mobile, cloud/SaaS, or tiered architectures, ERP integration enables seamless data sharing, collaboration, and efficiency across different departments, functions, and locations, ultimately driving improved business performance and agility.

Describe how middleware is used to integrate enterprise systems

In summary, middleware serves as a vital intermediary layer in integrating enterprise systems by enabling data, application, business process, and service integration across heterogeneous environments. By providing communication, transformation, orchestration, and interoperability capabilities, middleware ensures seamless interaction and collaboration between disparate systems, enabling organizations to leverage their existing investments while embracing new technologies and capabilities.

Describe a supply chain and its five basic activities and define supply chain management.

A supply chain refers to the network of organizations, processes, activities, resources, and technologies involved in the production, procurement, transformation, and distribution of goods and services from suppliers to customers.

Plan:

The planning phase involves determining the demand for products or services, forecasting future requirements, and developing strategies to meet customer needs efficiently.

Source:

The sourcing phase involves identifying, selecting, and managing suppliers who provide the raw materials, components, or services needed for production.

Make:

The manufacturing or production phase involves transforming raw materials or components into finished products through various processes, operations, and assembly activities.

Deliver:

The delivery phase involves managing the logistics, transportation, and distribution of finished products to customers or end-users.

Return:

The return or reverse logistics phase involves handling product returns, exchanges, repairs, or recycling activities.

Supply chain management (SCM) refers to the strategic coordination and integration of all the activities, processes, and stakeholders involved in the supply chain to optimize performance, enhance efficiency, and create value for customers and stakeholders.

Describe how a supply chain management system can be used to improve visibility andincrease profitability

In summary, a well-implemented supply chain management system improves visibility, enhances efficiency, reduces costs, and increases profitability by providing real-time insights, optimizing processes, and fostering collaboration across the supply chain network. By leveraging technology, data, and best practices, organizations can achieve greater operational excellence, customer satisfaction, and financial performance in today's dynamic business environment.

Describe how CRM evolved from reporting to analyzing to predicting and distinguish and beable to identify examples of Operational CRM (used in marketing, sales and customerservice) vs. Analytical CRM

In summary, CRM has evolved from basic reporting to advanced analytical and predictive capabilities, enabling organizations to not only understand past customer interactions but also anticipate and shape future behavior. Operational CRM focuses on automating customer-facing processes, while analytical CRM emphasizes data analysis and insights generation to drive strategic decision-making and customer-centric strategies.

Compare and be able to identify Core vs. Extended ERP components

In summary, core ERP components encompass essential modules for managing financial, HR, supply chain, manufacturing, and customer-related processes, while extended ERP components offer additional functionalities to address specific industry requirements or business needs, such as advanced planning, analytics, e-commerce, and asset management.

List and define the seven phases in the systems development life cycle (SDLC)

Planning Phase:

The planning phase involves defining the project scope, objectives, requirements, and constraints.

Analysis Phase:

The analysis phase focuses on gathering, analyzing, and documenting business requirements and user needs.

Design Phase:

The design phase involves developing detailed specifications and blueprints for the proposed system or application.

Development Phase:

The development phase focuses on building and coding the system or application according to the design specifications.

Testing Phase:

The testing phase involves verifying and validating the system or application to ensure it meets the specified requirements and quality standards.

Deployment Phase:

The deployment phase focuses on deploying the system or application into the production environment and transitioning it to end-users.

Maintenance Phase:

The maintenance phase involves maintaining, enhancing, and supporting the system or application throughout its lifecycle.

Define and differentiate between traditional and agile methodologies

In summary, traditional methodologies follow a linear, plan-driven approach to software development, while Agile methodologies embrace flexibility, collaboration, and adaptability to deliver value incrementally and respond to change quickly. Each approach has its strengths and weaknesses, and the choice between them depends on factors such as project complexity, team experience, and customer requirements.

Describe the four reasons for project failure

Poor Planning and Scope Management:

Inadequate planning and scope management can lead to unrealistic project expectations, unclear objectives, and scope creep.

Inadequate Communication and Stakeholder Engagement:

Poor communication and stakeholder engagement can hinder project success by leading to misunderstandings, conflicts, and resistance to change.

Insufficient Resources and Risk Management:

Inadequate resource allocation, including human, financial, and technological resources, can hinder project execution and delivery.

Lack of Leadership and Change Management:

Ineffective leadership and change management can undermine project success by impeding decision-making, fostering resistance to change, and creating a negative project culture.

Explain basic project management: scope, constraints, stakeholders, planning andmanaging change

Scope:

Scope refers to the defined boundaries of the project, including the objectives, deliverables, tasks, and requirements. It outlines what needs to be accomplished and what is excluded from the project.

Constraints:

Constraints are limitations or restrictions that affect the project's execution, such as time, cost, quality, and resources.

Stakeholders:

Stakeholders are individuals or groups who have an interest or involvement in the project and can influence its outcomes.

Planning:

Planning involves defining project goals, objectives, tasks, schedules, resources, and risks to guide project execution.

Managing Change:

Change is inevitable in any project, and effective change management is essential for adapting to evolving requirements, priorities, and circumstances.

Understand types, benefits and challenges of outsourcing projects

Overall, while outsourcing projects offer numerous benefits, organizations must carefully evaluate the trade-offs and risks involved to ensure successful outcomes. Effective outsourcing requires strategic planning, clear communication, robust governance, and ongoing management to mitigate risks and maximize value for all stakeholders.