T4.7 - Robotics Today and Tomorrow

I will discuss robotics in terms of how it is used in everyday life with smartphones, its new placement in the military, and how it is being used as an aid to provide therapy for autistic children.

Robotics is an expert system that consists of computer devices which perform many tasks in business, or for entertainment. As the textbook describes, robots are normally put in place to do work in for businesses, which include, "paint cars, make precision welds, and perform other tasks that require a high degree of precision or are tedious or hazardous for human beings" [1]. Robots are often put into place to do the kind of work that humans would not ideally want to or be able to perform, these are usually dirtier or duller jobs [1]. Robots have made many advancements since their beginnings in the past century, and their continual development and expansion will make them more versatile, and they will be used more widely in many fields other than just as an enhancement to machinery.

Robots have often been used in the military to carry out tasks that take away potential threat to soldiers, like carrying heavy equipment for during unpredictable weather conditions [1]. Robots are now also being designed to clear explosives and for combat. The system designed was created to allow the robot to detect any possible threats or motions with a "persistent stare," and because robots do not "panic under fire," there are no hasty or premature shots being fired [2]. The difficulty that users of a robot used for combat will face, however, is the distinction between a civilian and an enemy -- this is a difficult task for a human to assess on the ground, but it becomes augmented when the user is looking at a video of what the robot is seeing [2]. There are many mixed reviews on whether or not robots should be used for combat, it could create an even more deadly scenario [2].

The smartphone market has also been an increasingly big supporter of robotics recently. Quantum, a company that works in robotics, has spoken about possible joint ventures with Apple in developing "smartphone robotic applications," and with built-in cameras and microphones, smartphones are good potential devices to work with robotics [3]. Quantum is also responsible for introducing a new iPad controlled, plush robot named "Pochilla" which is being used to provide therapy for children with Autism [4]. Therapists control the way Pochilla interacts with children, and then children learn how to use Pochilla to identify feelings and express their emotions [4]. Autistic children especially are more likely to interact with an object than with another human, and with the introduction of the robot, these children have shown less frustration and more comprehension [4].

In conclusion, robotics are leading a new wave of technologies which have the power to vastly improve everyday life through smartphones, provide therapy, and aid soldiers in military settings. When used the right way, robotics have the power to change our environments for the better.

Sources

[1] Stair, Ralph M., and George Walter Reynolds. Fundamentals of Information Systems. Boston: Thomson/Course Technology, 2003. Print.

[2] http://www.nytimes.com/2010/11/28/science/28robot.html/?pagewanted=all

[3] http://www.sys-con.com/node/2322530

[4] http://roboticstomorrow.com/news/2012/08/03/quan-new-ipad-controlled-robots-may-help-kids-with-autism/20708

T4.3 - DSS in the Healthcare field

I will explore decision support systems and how they affect the healthcare field. Decision support systems (DSS) can be the backbone to a business--a DSS can provide much needed information and analysis through "people, procedures, software, databases, and devices" that can lead experts in fields of business, health, non-profits, and government to decisions much more quickly and efficiently [1]. By studying processes through various databases and software, companies big and small are able to save massive amounts of money, energy, time, and material through a few phases, including design and implementation [1].

Many in the healthcare field use what is known as a clinical DSS. A clinical DSS consists of medical records and other facts that can be crucial to making the right decision for patients, giving them the medications that work best, and curing them of ailments as quickly as possible [2]. In addition to being used to help doctors make decisions, a DSS also proves to be educational, and it has been reported that through using a DSS, the amount of unnecessary medical imaging has decreased. When a hospital is using a DSS, the hospital might not require a patient to go through all of the same tests that he or she would normally go through. This increases "patient safety and quality," and decreases "health care costs" [2]. One clinical DSS in particular, the GQ-Dx genomic decision support system made by GenomeQuest, was even approved by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) as meeting privacy and security standards, which means that a DSS not only custs down costs for those in the health care field, but increases privacy for patients, while still providing professionals with useful information [3].

A survey recently given out to various healthcare companies and hospitals found that over "84% of the surveyed organizations without a clinical decision support system said that they plan to deploy at least one new or additional clinical analytics tool within the next year" and that of those, most of those taking the survey were also looking into hiring an IT worker to assist with the DSS [4]. Between cost saving, medication error and improvement of overall population health, a DSS seems necessary in all areas of the healthcare field [4]. The systems do not allow for the same errors that humans can often make. While they should not be relied on alone, they do provide great "support" businesses and healthcare companies alike.

In conclusion, clinical decision support systems have been a great improvement in the healthcare field -- they simplify and often break down problems, and act as an aid in making important decisions, preventing future problems, decreasing costs, and serving as educational tools.

Sources
[1] Stair, Ralph M., and George Walter Reynolds. Fundamentals of Information Systems. Boston: Thomson/Course Technology, 2003. Print.
[2] http://esciencenews.com/articles/2011/01/04/clinical.decision.support.systems.help.control.inappropriate.medical.imaging.study.suggests
[3] http://www.news-medical.net/news/20120730/GenomeQuests-genomic-decision-support-system-achieves-HIPAA-compliance.aspx
[4] http://www.ihealthbeat.org/articles/2012/8/2/survey-finds-it-leaders-are-prioritizing-clinical-decision-support-tools.aspx

T3.7 - Apps & Services

Link to my database of Apps & Services:
https://reports.zoho.com/ZDBDataSheetView.cc?OBJID=794963000000004268&STANDALONE=true&ZDB_THEME_NAME=blue&DATATYPESYMBOL=false&REMTOOLBAR=true&SEARCHBOX=true&SHOWHIDEOPT=true

1) DigiSigner - A CRM software that allows people to electronically sign and verify signatures, and also ensure their security.

2) Time and Date - A CRM software/personal organization application that allows you to see the time and date in any city across the world and set a custom clock for selected cities.

3) Remember the Milk - A personal organization software that can set reminders, tasks, and print lists on devices including the iPhone, iPad and Blackberry. It can also work in conjunction with iPhone's Siri.

4) Need to Meet - A business management application that allows for the scheduling of work meetings using a simple calendar that can be shared with co-workers and business partners.

5) Online Link Scan - A security application that allows users to input any website which will then be checked for viruses, spyware or other malware.

6) Square - A CRM software that processes credit cards on devices including the iPhone and iPad. It can be used by businesses, freelancers and contractors.

7) MightyMeeting - A file storage software that allows users to upload documents, slideshows, and clips for presentations and meetings. Users can then access them from any device.

8) LinkedIn - A recruiting software where users can post resumes/skills on their profile, becoming accessible to potential employers and job opportunities. Employers can also look for potential applicants.

T3.6 - E-business and how it is transforming industries

I will explore the roles of e-business in transforming industries including mining and real estate, and how it can be used to cater to an often ignored market, disabled consumers.

E-Business can best be described as business that is conducted over the Internet between companies, consumers, or consumers and companies [1]. It has become vastly popular since its beginnings with the Internet, has helped create jobs, made vast changes and increase in profit for businesses, and is very convenient for consumers; it has created many opportunities for businesses and consumers that did not exist before.

One problem that e-business has run into, is its accessibility to the disabled. Retailer, Target received complaints that its website was not accessible to customers with disabilities; the retailer had not considered that being accessible to customers did not just include in-store, but on their website also. Target has now ended up spending more money fixing this issue, than if they had addressed it before launching the e-business [2]. E-businesses are a great way for disabled consumers to shop because shopping on a website can be much more inviting than shopping in a store for a customer that is blind or deaf, when the website is set up properly [2].

Another area where e-business has made a tremendous change is the world of real estate. Many real estate e-businesses, including Realtor.com, have changed the way consumers buy and rent -- potential buyers or renters can look at homes across the country and the world, all while having their credit checked, and getting a mortgage estimate [3]. Craigslist.com even has it's own section for homes and apartments are up for sale or rent. While it is up for debate how well the American real estate market is for buying, renting and selling, it cannot be denied that with nearly 80% of home buyers admitting they searched for their home on the Internet, that e-business has transformed the real estate world [3].

An unlikely industry joining the e-business world is mining. In the article "E-business in Mining," e-business is addressed as a difficult transition for any company to make, let alone companies that must send huge quantities of raw materials. Between creating calling centers and restructuring the overall processes of the company, the mining industry has seen how difficult the transition can be, and unlike most of the other industries to join e-business, mining has not benefited significantly from the switch. This lack of success can be attributed to the level of knowledge and expertise that goes into mining, which experts say may be too complicated to translate into e-business, this is most likely why mining companies have not seen a return on investment through e-business. Possible solutions include creating a way for buyers and sellers to work on pricing agreements, insuring both sides have some mining expertise [4].

In conclusion, e-business has transformed some industries, while others remain unsure of their future with e-business. It is also essential for e-businesses to work with disabled consumers in order to reach that often disregarded market.

Sources

[1] Stair, Ralph M., and George Walter Reynolds. Fundamentals of Information Systems. Boston: Thomson/Course Technology, 2003. Print.
[2] http://www.latimes.com/news/opinion/editorials/la-ed-target30-2008aug30,0,6725045.story
[3] http://www.inetprofessional.com/e-business.html
[4] http://www.lexisnexis.com.library2.ramapo.edu:2048/lnacui2api/api/version1/getDocCui?oc=00240&hl=t&hns=t&hnsd=f&perma=true&lni=43SV-JKK0-0000-B4FS&hv=t&csi=8015&hgn=t&secondRedirectIndicator=true

T.38 - Sales Database and Chart

 Link to the Sales Database, make sure to scroll to the bottom left and click "Go to last" to see the page that where I added new rows, and a "Profit Margin" column

https://reports.zoho.com/ZDBDataSheetView.cc?OBJID=794963000000003762&STANDALONE=true&privatelink=5811e5cfd10f338ac7d55dcfe8063f5d&ZDB_THEME_NAME=blue&DATATYPESYMBOL=false&REMTOOLBAR=true&SEARCHBOX=true&SHOWHIDEOPT=true

1) I went to "Add" and added two news rows of data for customers "Dan Donson" and "John Johnson"
2) I went to "Add" and added a custom formula for a new column "Profit Margin"
3) Put in a custom formula to find the profit margin.
4) Changed the data type to a percentage, and made only one decimal place.
5) Saved and published it by going to "Publish" > "URL/Public" and checking off "make it public without login"

Link to the Sales Chart,

https://reports.zoho.com/ZDBDataSheetView.cc?OBJID=794963000000004196&STANDALONE=true&privatelink=6d57bcd871ff746798cf03f12ef815e7&LP=RIGHT&ZDB_THEME_NAME=blue&REMTOOLBAR=true&INCLUDETITLE=true&INCLUDEDESC=true

1) I went to "New" and then "Chart View"

2) I dragged "Region" to the X-axis, and "Profit" to the Y-axis.

3) I dragged "Product category" to the color section.

4) Changed the chart type to a stacked bar chart.

5) Saved and published it by going to "Publish" > "URL/Public"

T 3.4 Smartphones and how they're making a difference

I will be discussing Smartphones in terms of their roles in urban planning and as health aids. Smartphones have been inarguably the fastest growing technology in the past few years. Built with software operating systems in them, they are capable of going online, checking e-mail, buying and playing MP3’s, using a GPS (global positioning system), and even watching movies and television shows, among other applications. The smart phones that have found the most popularity among consumers include the BlackBerry, the Droid and the iPhone, the iPhone outnumbering the others in sales. Within these phones lie an entire other industry in itself, with applications, or “apps.” 

Smart phones seem to be capable of performing many of the functions that people use their computers for.

In addition to the tasks that iPhones normally perform, are applications that are actually aiding major city development, and serving as health aids. Boston has long suffered from a pothole, as most cities do, and in an effort to identify key problem areas, an application was launched that allows people to identify those pot holes they encounter throughout the city. The application has spurred interest from other cities, and could greatly aid urban planning throughout the country [1].

Smart phones are now also being credited with helping people manage their health. Besides people constantly “googling” health symptoms from pregnancy to STD’s, many applications have now become popular that help people manage their diet, eating and drinking habits, as well as with exercise and diabetes. Many healthcare companies have also turned to smartphones to advertise, and the investment has been exponential. The reason for this, according to a media company Heartbeat Ideas, is that people now spend as much time on their smartphones as they do watching television, or doing both simultaneously, meaning that advertising should reach them on both spectrums [2].  

In addition to helping people monitor their day to day diets and health concerns, one health and nutrition aid company, BodyMedia, has created a wristband that monitors everyday vitals and works with smartphones through an application. The company says it expects its biggest buyers will be consumers who use their smartphones frequently, and either have diabetes or are part of a company wellness program [3]. 

In conclusion, smartphones are not only convenient and efficient pieces of technology, but offer solutions and assistance to problems related to health and urban planning. Many applications used on smartphones can be used to make significant differences.

Sources

[1] http://www.informationweek.com/news/software/info_management/240004303

[2] http://www.nytimes.com/2012/04/02/technology/as-smartphones-become-health-aids-ads-may-follow.html?adxnnl=1&adxnnlx=1343235672-CvgMXK75ZjobM6/zmZVj6w

[3]http://www.lexisnexis.com.library.ramapo.edu:2048/lnacui2api/api/version1/getDocCui?oc=00240&hl=t&hns=t&hnsd=f&perma=true&lni=518B-B2M1-JBG3-608T&hv=t&csi=6742&hgn=t&secondRedirectIndicator=true

T3.3 - Cloud Computing in Terms of Increased Productivity, Privacy and Green Computing

I will explore cloud computing in terms of privacy, green computing, possible loss of data, and how the process can increase productivity in a company. Cloud computing, software applications available over the Internet, have become increasingly popular. People can easily access their e-mail, documents, tasks, and reports easily, and share them with co-workers and classmates. The beauty of cloud computing is the simplicity it offers to people and businesses, offering storage and cutting down on costs and clean up, and accessible from devices ranging from iPhones to desktop computers. 

Among some of cloud computing positives is its ability to increase productivity in a company.  A limousine company, Uber has set up a cloud computing device that sets up limousine drivers with potential customers who need a ride while on their way home from dropping off customers at the airport or other destinations [1].  LiveOps is another example of a cloud computing system which connects live operators with customers of Kodak and Pizza Hut among others [1]. Companies that are utilizing their free time to make profit through cloud computing services are effectively increasing their productivity.

While cloud computing offers many positives, it has also raised red flags for people and businesses. Besides the always probable possibility of the Internet failing somehow, perhaps going offline or experiencing a down server and running the risk of lost data, cloud computing is run on the Internet, and is therefore open to hacking and other security breaches [2]. Because many cloud computing sites, like Facebook for example, allows interaction between so many people, the question of privacy continues to come up. If an employer wants to gather as much information as they can about a potential applicant through a cloud like Facebook, the potential applicant might not have any say. In other instances, accounts linked to various cloud computing websites can be broken into, leaking documents and e-mails to the public that were supposed to be private. Many of the cloud computing websites have experienced short periods where they are offline, because of various server problems or outages, but this kind of inconsistency resonates with users, especially businesses. Possible outages could also mean loss of data for users [2].

In addition to being referred to as a cost cutting advantage, cloud computing comes across as a very green service for businesses to provide, but this may not actually be the case. When taking into account how much energy it realistically takes to install, change and update a data center, cloud computing services may not actually be the dream green service that it seems to be. While cloud computing certainly has its advantages over other services in terms of green computing, there is much to be improved on, and C02 emissions can be cut down in data centers like Google’s [3].  

In conclusion, cloud computing has both positives and negatives for businesses to consider. Businesses can increase their productivity and revenue through cloud computing services, but they should be wary about privacy, possible security breaches, and how the service and its data centers actually are.

Sources

[1] http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/11/14/will-cloud-computing-make-everything-and-everyone-work-harder/  

[2] http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/02/23/does-cloud-computing-mean-more-risks-to-privacy/

[3] http://www.lexisnexis.com.library.ramapo.edu:2048/lnacui2api/api/version1/getDocCui?oc=00240&hl=t&hns=t&hnsd=f&perma=true&lni=5657-BBC1-JBWC-T26N&hv=t&csi=389195&hgn=t&secondRedirectIndicator=true

T1.7 - Gadget

Here are the steps I took to add a gadget to my blog.

-After signing into Gmail account, click 'View Blog'
-Click 'Design' in the top right corner
-On the left side tab, click the 'Layout' button
-Click 'Add a Gadget'
-Browse through gadgets
-Click gadget
-The gadget will be displayed underneath header -- the gadget can be moved to other areas in the blog.

I chose to add a Powerpoint Gadget, and chose an "information technology" related Powerpoint that has computers and other forms of technology, displayed underneath the header. A Powerpoint Gadget helps illustrate a relevant theme that the blog is displaying. I think the Powerpoint on my blog allows readers that come across it that are not in the class to get a clear idea of what the blog will be covering before they begin reading it. Images also help attract and retain readers, which adds value to the blog.

T2.3 Hardware & Software

Many small fashion boutiques and stores have started turning to e-commerce, allowing customers to buy online and expanding their small business.

Some hardware and software items that a small business like this might want include:

Digital camera – To take pictures of clothing and accessories, and catalog inventory for a web site. It can also be used to record video and for a web site. Digital cameras have become increasingly more user
friendly, needing only a USB cord or flash memory card to upload pictures, which can then be edited.

Server – A server can be used by every employee, each of them has right of entry to the information on the server, as well as rights to update this information, keeping sales, data, and inventory up to date.

Printer – This business would need a printer to print any documents or hard copies like invoice forms or reports, and also as receipts to be sent out to customers with their orders.

RFID System – This Radio Frequency Identification would be essential for a small boutique, especially if it is also selling clothes online. These microchips are placed on items that track where the inventory goes throughout the store. This tracking allows items to be restocked and ordered. This technology also gives valuable information like when the item was manufactured and its price.

Personal Information Manager (PIM) – A PIM, like Microsoft Outlook, would be valuable for a small business like this in order to set out task reminders including when to mail items, when to stock up on inventory, for billing purposes, to send out invitations, and any other important dates and notes. It would also store important contacts, addresses, and e-mails.

T2.5 - FileMaker Pro, Single User Database

FileMaker Pro is a single user database that allows users to create or work on reports, documents, layouts, scripting and forms, as well as modify them [1]. FileMaker uses a "graphical user interface" (GUI) which allows users to use images to click and drag to create files versus text [2]. Bento, is a simplified version of FileMaker Pro available to be used as a personal database, for reminders, tasks, addresses, and other personal files [3].

The database, file creating application was also revamped recently to work with iPads and iPhones. Users can use their iPad or iPhone for any of the FileMaker tasks including checking, modifying, and creating data, reports, scripts, charts, using Excel, and other work functions, in addition to actually creating "iOS business applications" for their business. These applications can then be deployed, modified and managed by the user when needed [3].

FileMaker offers scripting, which allows users to figure out equations and calcuations, and also breaks down the steps for users. These scripts can then be used for records, reports, and to create new applications. Scripting, in addition to any of the business reports, charts, forms or layouts created by FileMaker have the capability of being turned into database output, where the program allows for organization and proper formatting so that information is displayed accurately and efficiently, with an easily readable layout [1].

The program gives users the option to work with structured query language (SQL). While SQL is now available through many other databases, FileMaker users have the option to install and connect to an SQL database and then use the data and information they have worked on in FileMaker, to manipulate, store, and create data using SQL. Through the SQL database, the users can then embed results into any language (i.e. Java). This combination of two programs working together to provide a user interface is an example of an object-oriented database management system (OODBMS) [1].

FileMaker is much more prevalent in everyday life than it would appear at first glance. Through a web application of the program, FileMaker actually tracks FedEx shipments, as well as Wikipedia posts. It is also licensed with many major businesses including Wal-Mart, ATT &T, and Nokia to create files. One U.S. hospital, Lee Medical, uses FileMaker Pro on iPads throughout the hospital and says that it has resulted in a lower infection rate, healthier patients, and an overall more efficient hospital. The hospital created an application called “The Lee Medical VAST Solution” for the iPad, which allows nurses to update information about vascular access devices, including catheters, which then must be monitored to prevent “central line associated bloodstream infections” (CLABSI). CLABSI is a common occurrence in all hospitals; nurses can easily make the mistake of inserting a catheter VAD incorrectly, and cause an infection in the bloodstream. Lee Medical reports that by using the FileMaker Pro iPad application, they have reduced their infection rate to 0.5%, reduced costs, increased standards and performance [4].

 
Questions

1) What Specific challenges does your database system implementation have?
FileMaker faces challenges in that it is not compatible with other databases. While it does allow users access to an SQL database, there are many that it does not work with. It is also a single-user program, meaning that it cannot be shared among multiple users at the same time, which can be a significant drawback.

2) In what ways does it provide a competitive advantage for the organization using it?
It allows reports, layouts, and other files to be made easily, and from a number of devices. Its ability to create business applications for the iPad and iPhone allows employees to help operate and keep track of their business on the go. Its use of GUI also makes the program easy to use.

3) What improvements would you suggest?
FileMaker Pro does a good job of how FileMaker programs can enhance people in their work setting, but does not explain much how their database application Bento, can be used for personal life -- I think this could be expanded on. In the future, if FileMaker wants to compete with some larger database applications, it may want to think about becoming available to multiple users. This would come with a new set of problems though, in creating, deploying and managing applications and forms.

Sources

[1] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FileMaker

[2] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GUI

[3] http://www.filemaker.com/products/filemaker.html

[4] http://www.filemaker.com/solutions/customers/stories/lee-medical.html

Task 5 - Systems

In discussing general system concepts, I will explore virtual reality as a system. Virtual reality is immensely important in many business and non-profit settings -- it allows users to experience three dimensional settings through simulation. These simulations are visual for the most part, but some have auditory components. Virtual reality puts the user in another world, imaginary or real, with the same proportions and sizes that they are used to experiencing. Through using virtual reality, users are able to encounter experiences they would not be able to otherwise, this allows for further learning and development in education, healthcare, and scientific areas, among others [1].

Virtual reality is not without its kinks, though. It is often difficult to control image resolution and bandwidth in a virtual reality system, making development difficult sometimes. Some of the devices used in a virtual reality system include database gloves, handheld wands and joysticks, as well as head-mounted displays. Several categories of virtual reality have also been identified, some of these include interaction, artificiality, simulation, and immersion of the entire body. Virtual reality also incorporates feedback, voice recognition and interaction with other users, which furthers the development, exploration, and communication between users. Many movies have incorporated virtual reality, including The Matrix. In addition, virtual reality systems have been therapeutic in helping PTSD victims readjust to life after war, and people suffering from acrophobia, the fear of leaving the house [1].

An example of a virtual reality system creating a real difference is the virtual fieldwork being compiled about the earthquake in Haiti. By using data created by scanning the ground in Haiti, scientists have used a virtual reality system to create a three dimensional map of Haiti which will eventually be able to determine why there was a "lack of surface rupture" uncommon in earth quake history, in Haiti. The system inputs the data it takes in from scanning the ground, processes it, and then output takes place through observation. The virtual reality system receives feedback like any other general system [2].

Another example of a virtual reality system is "The Egyptian Oracle" an avatar-like experience created by students, funded by a non-profit educational organization, which puts users in Egypt's earliest days both visually and with audio. Users are able to walk around and experience this environment as it was [3].

Virtual reality systems are not only useful for entertainment, but for educational, scientific and developmental purposes in many industries. Like all systems, virtual reality goes through processes including input, output, and feedback [1].

[1] Virtual Reality, www.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virtual_reality
[2] Virtual Reality helps reveal key details about Haiti Earthquake, http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/48060375/ns/technology_and_science-science/#.UASgLPVv7vE
[3] A virtual reality history lesson, http://www.northeastern.edu/news/2012/07/oracle/

Task 4 - A1.3 Value Chain

Hanson CD from the 1990's

I have opened a new Internet site "CD University" where students are able to buy and sell used CD's to each other. My website entails a value chain, where upstream and downstream management take place. During upstream management, students sell their used CD's, I e-mail a prepaid shipping label, and students then mail their CD's out. The CD's (the raw materials) then travel by mail (an inbound tracking system). The CD's eventually end up at my warehouse where they go through an inventory which keeps track of what we have in stock, what's been sold, what needs to be sent out, and any returns or damages. I process the CD's by checking each one for damage or wear and tear and then downstream management begins. I package the CD (it becomes a finished product and is registered in automated storage and retrieval systems), and it then gets sent out through the mail (outbound logistics). I have a group of marketing specialists that work on the website, to keep it active in search engines, utilizing a promotion planning system. They promote the website through web advertising, mostly on textbook websites which college students often use. In addition to marketing, I have hired a group of customer service representatives whom keep track and control all logistics. They handle all issues including returns, damages, and mailing problems. The value chain at CD University has proved successful thus far.

Task 2 - Analyzing Value of an IS

E-commerce is a valuable information system that allows consumers, businesses and the public to carry out business transactions electronically. The system allows these people, businesses and organizations to put their products out in a global setting, at a low price for consumers, allowing a high profit for them. One of the most valuable aspects of e-commerce is the simplicity it offers to businesses and organizations in purchasing. When performed in a manual system, an employee must wait for approval for a purchase needed from the purchasing department, and the purchase cannot exceed a set amount. When purchasing a product through an e-commerce system, a step in the manual system is eliminated. Instead of going to the purchasing department, an employee can buy directly from a supplier, and the price on that website will not exceed the amount they have budgeted – the business they work for has already set the price. Management can be notified by e-mail quickly if approval is necessary. E-commerce eases much of the management information and decision processes as a business information system. 

An example of a website that I use which I will use as an example of e-commerce is Ruelala.com. In terms of the processes e-commerce consists of, it begins with a gathering of data that will be used as input. For e-commerce, data about products, markets, consumers, and prices are necessary for their website – this is where partner organizations and customers will go to order. For Ruelala, clothing, sales, fashion merchandise, and other goods will be researched. This data should be processed and then used for output. E-commerce looks at the gathered data and creates information from it, and when this process is complete, the next process is output. During output, the organization creates useful outlets for the information, like reports for suppliers and partners. Ruelala creates reports and analyses for the partners and suppliers it works with, for example Tommy Bahama and Marc Jacobs. Feedback is then necessary from the system that monitors the processing and input procedures. Feedback is essential for input, processing, and output procedures to take place properly in an e-commerce system. In addition, management is necessary to monitor each facet of the e-commerce business, including the processes of the system, as well as all departments that comprise the business, for instance, manufacturing, marketing, and finance. Ruelala is an example of an e-commerce business that is successful in all processes of its system, providing consumers with ease of access to fashion trends.