Introduction to Computing Systems and Applications

Mainframe computers

Applications needing enormous processing power like weather prediction and enterprise resource planning (ERP).

Operations associated with mainframes

Inventory control, reservation systems, and bank records.

Client devices in business

Devices like PCs, tablets, and phones used for tasks like email, documents, database access, and cloud services.

Server in computing

A computer designed for a specific service like data storage, backups, or communication.

Client-server network

A setup where servers provide services to client devices within local area networks or intranets.

Cloud computing

Access to computing resources via the Internet using cloud servers housed in data centers.

Major cloud service providers

Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud.

Transaction Processing System (TPS)

A system for recording events like sales, inventory updates, or customer sign-ups.

Features of modern POS systems

Sales/tax tracking, discounting, inventory, ordering, CRM, bookkeeping, and device integration.

Square, Inc.

Mobile POS systems using smartphone-connected card readers.

Employee scheduling software

To automate and improve staff scheduling, especially in fields like healthcare and aviation.

Decision Support System (DSS)

Software that helps middle managers with decisions using real-time data inputs.

Example of DSS use in transportation

Assigning aircraft to gates or scheduling delivery routes.

Components of supply chain management

Planning, sourcing, manufacturing, and logistics.

RFID in SCMS

By providing real-time tracking of materials throughout the logistics process.

Functions of a Human Resource Information System (HRIS)

Forecasting, recruiting, hiring, evaluation, training, retention, scheduling, and compensation.

Gamified analytics in HR systems

Using badges and bonuses to encourage training and performance.

Marketing Information Systems (MKIS)

Integrate processes like data gathering, storage, analysis, and distribution in marketing.

Major MKIS software providers

Marketo, HubSpot, Sailthru.

Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system

Software to manage marketing, sales, and service interactions with customers.

Learning Management System (LMS)

Software used in education to manage assignments, track performance, and report data.

Top LMS providers in U.S. higher education

Blackboard and Canvas.

Executive Support System (ESS)

Executive-level reports, visual summaries, and drill-down data analysis tools.

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system

An integrated suite of applications managing finance, HR, production, CRM, and more.

Modern ERP systems for small businesses

Cloud-based scalability and modular design by firms like Microsoft, SAP, and Oracle.