Key Concepts in IT Architecture, Compliance, and Software Development

Application Programming Interface (API)

A software that allows two applications to share data with each other.

Enterprise Architecture (EA)

A discipline that defines, organizes, standardizes, and documents the architecture and key elements of an organization, including business, digital, physical, and organizational domains.

Business Architecture

Shows how an organization is structured and demonstrates how elements like capabilities, processes, and information fit together to meet goals.

Systematic Planning

A three-step process: know your current situation, know your goal, and create a plan to close the gap.

Coding Language

A formal language with sets of instructions used to create software (e.g., Python, C++, Java).

Technology Stack

The combination of technologies a company uses to build and run an application or project.

LAMP Stack

A web development stack including Linux, Apache, MySQL, and PHP, used to host and manage web content.

Client Side

Includes the parts of software users interact with directly; requests resources or services from a server.

Server Side

Where a company's server runs programs and stores assets such as databases, web servers, and operating systems.

MVP (Minimum Viable Product)

A version of a product with just enough features to be usable by early customers for feedback.

Platform

A group of technologies used as a base to develop other applications, processes, or technologies.

Compliance

Adhering to a rule, standard, policy, or law; ensures understanding and following of relevant regulations.

Compliance Audit

A review of an organization's adherence to regulations, evaluating compliance efforts, policies, and risk management.

External Compliance

Measures a company takes to stay compliant with state and federal laws; responding to outside regulations.

E-Waste

Discarded electronic devices or components, often destined for recycling, resale, or disposal.

Delegation of Authority

Transferring decision-making power from one person or group to another for efficiency.

General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)

The EU's strict privacy and security law that applies globally to organizations collecting EU citizen data.

Governance

The system by which companies are directed and controlled, usually led by a board of directors.

Green IT

The study and practice of environmentally sustainable computing or information technology.

Internal Compliance

Following the procedures, policies, and best practices set within an organization to reduce legal risks.

Regulation

The management of systems according to a set of rules.

Risk Management (Technology)

Managing potential technology failures or security incidents that could disrupt business operations.