Business Information Systems Overview

Business Information Systems

• Computers are essential for storing, managing, and analyzing large amounts of data, leading to "Big Data" analysis in commerce.
• Businesses use computers to understand buying patterns, trends, and consumer preferences.
• Computers are vital tools in every aspect of business operations, including product development, marketing, accounting, and administration.
• Choosing the right computers, software, and peripherals is crucial for businesses.
• Business technology automates back-office functions like record-keeping, accounting, and payroll.
• Secure environments for sensitive business/consumer information are enabled by technology.
• Communication with customers can be improved using technology

Advantages of Computers in Business

• Access to more information sources.
• Increased opportunities for collaboration and networking.
• Easier access to information resources.
• Increased efficiency.
• Increased services.

Computer Components ("HW & SW")

• Desktop Computers: Designed to remain in one location on or under a desk.
• Laptop Computers: Portable personal computers that fit on a lap and are powered by batteries.

Types of Software

• Word Processing Software: Used for creating, editing, printing, and saving documents.
• Multimedia Software: Combines text, audio, images, animations, and video for interactive content.
• Web Browsers: Applications for accessing websites.
• Graphics Software: Used to manipulate images and models visually on a computer.
• Freeware: Software offered for free.
• ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning): Software system streamlining core business processes (finance, HR, manufacturing, supply chain, sales, and procurement) providing a unified view of activity and a single source of truth.

Computer Software Examples

• Operating Systems: (Microsoft Windows, Linux, macOS)
• Productivity Software: (Microsoft Office Suite, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Internet Browsers; Firefox, Chrome, Safari)

Functions of Operating Systems

• Providing a consistent way for applications to work with the CPU.
• Managing computer hardware.
• Scheduling, coordinating, and managing tasks.
• Managing files (accessing, arranging, saving, deleting).

Computer Hardware

• Motherboard: The main printed circuit board (PCB) acting as the computer's central communication hub.
• CPU (Central Processing Unit): The "brain" of the computer, performing calculations. It's a microprocessor containing millions of transistors.
• ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit): A digital circuit within the CPU that performs billions of arithmetic and logical operations per second.
• RAM (Random Access Memory): High-speed, short-term memory for the computer's CPU.
• ROM (Read-Only Memory): Stores startup instructions (firmware) for the computer.
• Cash Memory: Specialized memory for frequently accessed information, improving system performance.

Memory Hierarchy

• Arranging storage devices based on size, cost, access speed, and roles within application processing.
• Levels of memory (Level 1, 2, 3 cache; Main memory; Magnetic disk; Optical disk; Magnetic tape).
• Level 1 cache is built directly into the CPU for the fastest data access, followed by subsequent levels with more storage capacity but slower speeds.
• The CPU uses a hierarchy of memory for different types and speeds of access.

Storage Devices

• Hard Drives: Physical components storing data, including programs, pictures, documents, and operating systems. Can be internal or external.
• Solid-State Drives (SSDs): Common storage drives that are smaller, faster, and quieter than hard disk drives, using electronic memory and without moving parts.

Input/Output Devices

• Monitor: Displays information pictorially or textually.
• Computer Mouse: A hand-held pointing device that detects motion relative to a surface, controlling the graphical user interface of a computer.

This quiz explores the role of computers in business information systems, including data management, analysis, and technology's impact on various business operations. You'll learn about how technology aids in understanding consumer behavior and improving communication. Test your knowledge on the advantages and essential components of computer systems in businesses.