Introduction to information systems T. Cornford, M. Shaikh is1 060 2013

4.1.1 Aims of the chapter
The aims of this chapter are to:
• introduce a broad survey of information technologies including 
hardware, networks and software
• describe the fundamental characteristics of this technology and how it 
works, its power and limitations
• balance a concern with the most recent and up-to-date or cutting edge 
technologies, and those that are older, well established but still in use.
4.1.2 Learning outcomes
By the end of this chapter, and having completed the Essential reading and 
activities, you should be able to:
• express a logical understanding of how the technical parts of a 
computer-based information system work, their principal structures 
and components including contemporary software technologies for 
information processing and communications 
• demonstrate a good understanding of the significance of history for 
understanding contemporary information systems and the concept of 
legacy systems
• discuss the evolution of different types of information and 
communication technologies (eras) and the extent to which new 
technologies have led to changes in the way organisations use 
technology and are structured and operate 
• explain client–server, enterprise and cloud computing and give 
examples of each
• describe the database approach and offer examples of its advantages 
over a file-based approach.
4.1.3 Essential reading
Laudon, K.C. and J.P. Laudon Management information systems: managing the 
digital firm. (Boston; London: Pearson, 2013) thirteenth edition [ISBN 
9780273789970 (pbk)] Chapters 5, 6 and 7.
Curtis, G. and D. Cobham Business information systems: analysis, design 
and practice. (London: Prentice Hall, 2008) sixth edition [ISBN 
9780273713821] Chapters 3, 4, 5, 6 and 8.
 4.1.4 Synopsis of chapter content
The chapter introduces contemporary information and communications 
technology including computers of various forms, computer hardware and 
its logical structure, computer software and networking. The approach is 
in part historical, exploring the changes over time (eras) in the dominant 
model of computing and the way that this technology is deployed by 
organisations. The chapter also initiates a discussion over the possible 
impact that specific types of technology may have on how organisations 
are structured or how they go about their business.

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Chapter 4: Contemporary trends in information and communication technologies
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