Core Components of IT Software

What do software systems use to transform data and perform tasks?

Algorithms.

How can software give an organization a competitive advantage?

By helping it perform tasks more efficiently or provide novel services to clients.

Why must organizations continually assess their IT systems?

Because of rapid changes in the IT field.

What does business analysis look for?

Gaps between organizational needs and current processes that technology can fill.

Why might organizations hire outside IT consultants?

To help find solutions to business problems when doing so is justifiable.

What is a key component of IT research and development?

Identifying systems that advance the organization's business strategy.

What can unauthorized access to sensitive data cause?

Data loss or modification, exposure to competitors, and disruptions in availability.

What does IT security involve besides technology?

Users and internal procedures.

What is the goal of secure systems?

To identify threats and prevent incidents that compromise data or disrupt the business.