Using Technology to Manage Information Chapter 13

I. Computer Networks A. Local area networks (LAN) –connects computers at one site –people can share hardware & software B. Wide area networks (WAN) –connects computers at different sites by phone, satellite, or microwave

II. Uses of Computers A. Computational models 1. Statistical analysis 2. Optimization models (linear programming) 3. “What if” analysis B. Data processing systems 1. Accuracy, speed, space, flexibility C. Inter-organizational systems 1. Electronic data interchange systems (EDI)

III. Business Information Systems A. Transaction Processing systems 1. Batch processing 2. Online processing (real-time processing) B. Management Support Systems 1. Information reporting systems 2. Decision support systems 3. Expert systems

C. Business applications - payroll, record keeping, inventory control, scheduling, order processing D. Limitations of current packages 1. Modify the company’s business procedures to fit an existing package 2. Customize an existing application 3. Build an entirely new application

An Integrated Information System Expert systems Information reporting system Internal data sources Internal database Suggested decisions Transaction processing system External data sources Decision support systems Possible solutions Executive information systems External database

IV. Managing Info Technology A. Technology planning coordination of executives, IT managers, & area managers B. Protecting computers & information 1. data security (unauthorized access and use, security breaches, deliberate damage, computer virus) 2. preventing problems - installing fixes to prevent future worms or viruses from harming hardware or software 3. privacy of information - finding a balance between collecting info and protecting individual consumer rights

V. The Future of the Internet A. Lack of central authority B. Lack of underlying organization C. Network performance D. Individual performance

VI. Trends in Technology  Information appliances  palmtops, web phones  smarter household appliances include:  washers with dirt sensors  refrigerators with adaptable defrost  microwaves & refrigerators that ‘know’ what is inside by scanning bar codes (Source: Consumer Reports, Jan. 2000, p. 18)