ITSS3300 Exam 2

Computer System

Hardware + Software + Data + Procedures + People working together to collect, process, store, and output information that supports decision-making. Hardware performs physical tasks, software provides instructions, data are raw facts, procedures define use, and people operate or manage the system.

Hardware

The physical parts of a computer (CPU, memory, storage, I/O devices). It executes instructions, stores and moves data, and determines system performance.

CPU (Central Processing Unit)

The “brain” of the computer that carries out arithmetic and logic operations. Speed and number of cores determine how fast data and programs are processed.

RAM (Random Access Memory)

Temporary, high-speed memory that stores active data and instructions. Volatile—data disappears when power is off. More RAM allows better multitasking and performance.

Storage (HDD vs SSD)

Long-term data retention devices. HDDs use spinning disks; SSDs use flash chips. SSDs are faster, quieter, and more reliable, improving enterprise efficiency.

Input and Output Devices

Tools that let humans interact with computers. Input (keyboard, scanner) feeds data in; Output (monitor, printer) displays results. Enable communication between users and systems.

Server

A powerful computer that provides shared resources (files, databases, web apps) to clients over a network. Central to modern business and cloud computing.

Internet of Things (IoT)

Network of physical devices embedded with sensors and connectivity that collect and exchange data. Devices send real-time information to systems that analyze and act automatically. Used for predictive maintenance, logistics tracking, and smart environments.

Disruptive Technology

A new innovation that fundamentally changes how industries operate. Examples

Blockchain

A distributed, tamper-resistant digital ledger that records transactions in chained blocks verified by cryptography. Ensures transparency and trust; foundation of cryptocurrencies and secure supply-chain tracking.

System Software

The layer that controls and manages hardware resources (operating systems like Windows, macOS, Linux). Handles memory, scheduling, and device control so applications can run.

Application Software

Programs that perform user or business tasks such as word processing or accounting. Runs on top of the operating system to produce specific outcomes.

Firmware

Permanent software stored in hardware chips controlling low-level functions (printers, routers, smart TVs). Bridges hardware and system software.

Mobile Systems

Portable devices (phones, tablets) with wireless connectivity used for work and communication. Managed by Mobile Device Management (MDM) for security and policy control. BYOD policies add flexibility but create data-protection challenges.

Cloud Computing

Delivery of computing services—servers, storage, databases, software—over the Internet. Elastic (scales automatically), pooled (shared resources), and on-demand (pay for what you use). Reduces cost and increases accessibility.

Advantages of the Cloud

Lower capital cost, scalability, automatic maintenance, global access, and built-in backup/recovery.

Disadvantages of the Cloud

Internet dependence, security/compliance concerns, and less physical control over data.

IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service)

Cloud model providing virtual hardware (servers, storage, networks). User installs and manages OS and applications. Example

PaaS (Platform as a Service)

Cloud model providing a development environment for building apps. Provider manages infrastructure; developer manages code. Example

SaaS (Software as a Service)

Fully managed online software accessible via browser. Provider handles everything—updates, security, storage. Examples

Virtualization

Technology that lets multiple virtual machines run on one physical server through a hypervisor. Maximizes hardware usage, simplifies backup, and increases flexibility.

Cloud Deployment Types

Public Cloud – shared services for many users (Google Drive); Private Cloud – dedicated to one org for security (banks); Hybrid Cloud – mix of both (hospitals). Chosen based on control vs. cost.

Content Delivery Network (CDN)

Global network of servers that store cached content close to users. Improves website speed, reliability, and streaming performance (Netflix, YouTube).

Collaboration

Two or more people working together through technology and communication to achieve shared goals. Core to problem-solving, decision-making, and project success.

Purposes of Collaboration

Become informed, make decisions, solve problems, and manage projects efficiently by sharing information through IS tools.

Types of Decisions

Operational – routine daily tasks; Managerial – department coordination and resource control; Strategic – long-term organizational direction.

Collaboration Tools

Communication (Teams, Slack); Content Sharing (Google Drive, SharePoint); Project Management (Trello, Asana); Workflow Automation (Jira, Monday). Enable communication, version control, and accountability.

Synchronous vs Asynchronous Collaboration

Synchronous = real-time (Zoom meeting, chat); Asynchronous = time-shifted (email, discussion board). Choose based on urgency and availability.

Successful Collaboration Criteria

(1) Achieve goals effectively, (2) Improve team capability, (3) Provide meaningful, positive experience for members.

Business Process

A sequence of activities transforming inputs into outputs that create value for the organization. Example

Structured vs Dynamic Processes

Structured = standardized, routine, rarely change (payroll); Dynamic = flexible, require human judgment (product design, strategy). Structured supports efficiency; dynamic supports innovation.

Organizational Scope of Processes

Workgroup – within one department; Enterprise – across multiple departments; Inter-enterprise – across multiple organizations (supply chain). The broader the scope, the harder to manage.

Process Quality – Efficiency vs Effectiveness

Efficiency = doing things right using minimal resources (output/input ratio). Effectiveness = doing the right things that achieve strategic goals. Balance both for optimal performance.

Improving Process Quality

(1) Change structure – automate or reorganize tasks, (2) Change resources – add staff or tech, (3) Do both for maximum impact. Example

Information Silos

Isolated data systems in different departments that don’t share info. Cause duplication and inconsistency. Solved by integrating systems such as ERP, CRM, or EAI.

CRM (Customer Relationship Management)

A suite of applications managing all interactions with customers—from marketing and sales to support. Tracks customer lifecycle and improves satisfaction, retention, and sales insights. Example

ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning)

Integrated software that combines all major business functions (finance, HR, manufacturing, supply chain) into one real-time system. Central database removes duplication and increases efficiency. Example

EAI (Enterprise Application Integration)

Middleware that connects existing separate systems, enabling data flow and process automation without full replacement. Provides real-time integration and gradual transition to ERP.

Elements of an ERP System

Hardware & infrastructure, ERP software modules, centralized database, business process procedures, training & consulting. Modules include Supply Chain, Manufacturing, CRM, HR, and Accounting.

Challenges of ERP Implementation

High cost, long timeline, complex integration, employee resistance, data migration issues. Requires strong project management and testing to succeed.

Major ERP Vendors

SAP – market leader, customizable but expensive; Microsoft Dynamics – mid-size firms integration with Office; Oracle – cloud and analytics focused; Infor/Epicor – industry-specific solutions.

EAI in Action

CRM sends order data → EAI translates format → ERP receives and updates inventory. Enables real-time communication and eliminates data duplication between systems.

IaaS vs PaaS vs SaaS

IaaS = infrastructure only (user manages OS and apps); PaaS = development platform (provider manages hardware); SaaS = complete software (service ready to use). Choose based on control needed.

Workgroup vs Enterprise vs Inter-enterprise Systems

Workgroup IS supports 10–100 users within a department; Enterprise IS spans entire organization with hundreds of users; Inter-enterprise IS links multiple companies with thousands of users (e.g., supply chains). Broader scope = greater coordination challenge.

CRM vs ERP vs EAI

CRM focuses on customer relationships; ERP integrates entire business processes; EAI connects existing systems for data sharing. CRM → external customers, ERP → internal operations, EAI → bridging software.

Efficiency vs Effectiveness

Efficiency is doing things right (minimal inputs for outputs); Effectiveness is doing the right things (achieving strategy). Example

ERP in a Hospital

Integrates patient records, billing, pharmacy, and inventory systems → reduces errors, speeds discharge, improves coordination between departments.

IoT in an Airline

Sensors in aircraft engines monitor temperature and wear → real-time alerts for maintenance → fewer delays and lower costs.

Why Choose EAI over ERP

EAI is chosen when a full ERP system is too expensive or complex. It links current applications gradually, allowing integration without replacing legacy software.

Virtualization Example

Company runs multiple virtual servers on one machine → reduces hardware cost and simplifies disaster recovery by creating snapshots of each VM.