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.
Chapter 4: Contemporary trends in information and communication technologies
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