Business Information Systems Overview

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Questions and Answers

Which component acts as the backbone of the computer and connects all components?

Control Unit

Bus

Motherboard (correct)

Storage Device

What is the primary function of the central processing unit (CPU)?

To store data permanently

To sequence and execute instructions (correct)

To connect all components of the computer

To provide data and instructions

What role do input/output devices play in a computer system?

They store data permanently

They provide data and instructions and receive results (correct)

They are responsible for processing arithmetic operations

They manage the communication between software applications

Which of the following is not considered a primary function of hardware components?

Software execution Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the bus in a computer system?

To provide connections for communication between hardware components Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the reasons organizations invest in hardware and software?

To improve worker productivity Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a Business Information System (BIS)?

To convert data into information products Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following aspects is NOT part of the definition of a system?

Software updates Signup and view all the answers

What must managers assess when investing in hardware and software?

Opportunities and options Signup and view all the answers

Which component is NOT typically considered part of a system's functionality?

Market domination Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important for organizations to facilitate collaboration among employees through hardware and software?

To improve decision-making and operational efficiency Signup and view all the answers

How should organizations approach hardware and software evaluation?

Define business needs and ask relevant questions Signup and view all the answers

What is a key outcome organizations aim to achieve by investing in technology?

Enhance customer service Signup and view all the answers

What is multiprocessing primarily focused on?

Simultaneous execution of two or more instructions Signup and view all the answers

How does grid computing achieve cost efficiency?

By utilizing multiple computers often owned by different entities Signup and view all the answers

What role does the central server play in grid computing?

It divides computing tasks and assigns work to other computers. Signup and view all the answers

What is an essential characteristic of input devices?

They allow for the rapid and accurate entry of data. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best defines parallel processing?

Simultaneous execution of a single task on multiple processors. Signup and view all the answers

When evaluating input and output devices, organizations should prioritize which factor?

The alignment with business goals Signup and view all the answers

What are the two stages involved in the process of data entry?

Converting human-readable data into machine-readable form and processing Signup and view all the answers

Which type of data is often transferred into a computer system with a specific characteristic?

Data that is both human- and machine-readable, like magnetic ink on bank checks. Signup and view all the answers

What is one advantage of off-the-shelf software?

The initial cost is lower due to shared development expenses. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a disadvantage of using off-the-shelf software?

The software may require customization for specific needs. Signup and view all the answers

Why can in-house development staff struggle to provide ongoing support?

They face pressure to transition to new projects. Signup and view all the answers

What potential risk comes with developing new software features?

New features can introduce complications that exceed budget. Signup and view all the answers

Why might an organization find off-the-shelf software inadequate?

It may not align with existing work processes and standards. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a primary advantage of using Software as a Service (SaaS)?

Lower costs for software licensing Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of personal application software?

For personal and business use Signup and view all the answers

Which term describes software packages that contain multiple integrated programs?

Software suites Signup and view all the answers

Which mobile application category focuses on tracking workout progress and dietary information?

Health and fitness Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary consideration when selecting enterprise application software?

Integration with other applications Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of project management software?

Microsoft Project Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following licenses allows software to be used by one person on several computers?

Individual/multiuser license Signup and view all the answers

What type of software helps groups work together more effectively, especially when dispersed?

Groupware Signup and view all the answers

Which is NOT a category of mobile applications mentioned?

Education and learning Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential issue that can arise with software applications?

Software bugs Signup and view all the answers

Which of these is an example of a financial management software?

Intuit Quicken Signup and view all the answers

Which is NOT a typical function of spreadsheet software?

Creating visual presentations Signup and view all the answers

Which software type is available for free online as part of a web-based productivity suite?

Google Apps Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of desktop publishing software?

Develop high-quality printed materials Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Computer System Components

A system is an interconnected set of elements that works together to achieve specific goals, involving inputs, processes, outputs, and feedback.
A Business Information System (BIS) includes components collaborating to handle input, processing, output, storage, and control actions to transform data into actionable information for organizational activities.

Importance of Hardware and Software

Proper selection of hardware and software is crucial for supporting organizational needs and improving information systems.
Key benefits of investing in hardware and software include:
- Enhanced worker productivity
- Improved collaboration
- Cost reduction
- Revenue increase
- Faster time-to-market
- Superior customer service

Managerial Expectations

Managers should define business needs and evaluate hardware/software options.
Key managerial actions include assessing opportunities, evaluating features, and strategically investing based on business conditions.

Definition and Function of Hardware

Hardware refers to the physical components involved in a computer system, enabling input, processing, output, and storage functions.
Essential hardware components encompass:
- Input/Output devices: Facilitate data entry and result output.
- Central Processing Unit (CPU): Executes instructions through arithmetic, logic, and control units.
- Primary storage (memory): Temporarily stores data and instructions.

Computer Anatomy

Basic computer components include the CPU, memory, buses, and input/output devices, interconnected via the motherboard.
The bus system allows various hardware components to communicate using physical connections.

Processing Techniques

Multiprocessing: Simultaneous execution of multiple instructions.
Parallel Processing: Conducting the same task across multiple processors for efficiency.
Grid Computing: Multiple computers collaborate to address a shared problem, offering a cost-effective means to parallel processing that relies on a central server to distribute tasks.

Input and Output Devices

Input and output devices serve as the user interface, enabling data entry and result retrieval.
Selection of these devices should align with organizational business objectives.

Characteristics of Input/Output Devices

Input devices must ensure fast and accurate data entry, while output devices need to deliver timely results.
Data types vary, with some being human-readable and others designed for machine interpretation, such as banking magnetic ink.

Data Entry Process

Two-step data entry involves converting human-readable data into a machine-readable format through:
1. Data entry phase
2. System development phase for required features.

Off-the-Shelf Software

Advantages:
- Lower initial costs due to shared development expenses.
- Basic functionalities often meet business needs while ensuring high quality from prior trials.
Disadvantages:
- Organizations may pay for unnecessary features.
- Software may lack critical functionalities, necessitating costly future modifications.
- Potentially misaligns with current workflows and data standards.### Software as a Service (SaaS)
SaaS applications are hosted by third-party providers and accessed via the Internet.
Businesses subscribe to SaaS for web-delivered applications; notable vendors include Oracle, SAP, NetSuite, Salesforce, and Google.
Key advantages include accessibility from any device, provider-managed upgrades and patches, lower licensing costs, and ensured service levels and availability.

Personal Application Software

Designed for individual and business tasks, covering a range of functions such as tax preparation, web creation, photo editing, education, and entertainment.
Types of personal software include word processing, spreadsheets, databases, graphics, project management, and financial management.

Types of Personal Application Software

Word Processing: Tools for creating and editing documents (e.g., Microsoft Word, Google Docs).
Spreadsheet Software: Offers functions for financial and data calculations (e.g., Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets).
Database Software: Facilitates data storage and retrieval (e.g., Microsoft Access, Google Base).
Graphics Software: Used for creating visuals and illustrations (e.g., Adobe Illustrator, OpenOffice Impress).

Software Suites and Integrated Software Packages

Software suites combine multiple applications like word processors, spreadsheets, and databases, designed to work cohesively and economically.
Notable software suites include Microsoft Office, Corel WordPerfect, G Suite, and Apple iWork.

Web-Based Productivity Software Suites

Platforms like Google, Zoho, and Thinkfree provide free online applications for word processing and spreadsheets.
Microsoft Office 365 offers traditional office features over the internet, leveraging cloud technology.

Mobile Application Software

Massive growth in mobile apps, with hundreds of thousands created for platforms such as iPhone and Android.
Microsoft and other tech companies are significantly investing in mobile software development.

Mobile Application Categories

Books and Reference: Access e-books and reference materials.
Business and Finance: Tools for expense tracking and stock trading.
Entertainment: Apps for movies, music, and nightlife information.
Games: Diverse game offerings, from classic 2D to modern 3D experiences.
Health and Fitness: Apps for tracking workouts and monitoring health metrics.

Workgroup Application Software

Designed to enhance teamwork, either locally or globally.
Groupware, or collaborative software, aids in effective group collaboration, typically offered as web-based solutions.

Enterprise Application Software

Designed to provide comprehensive support to entire organizations.
Important factors in selection include total cost, ease of installation, training/support needs, integration capabilities, and mobile device usability.

Application Software for Transaction Processing and Business Analytics

Widely used across industries for functions such as learning management systems, genomic analysis, and resource planning.

Software Issues and Trends

Common software challenges include bugs, copyright concerns, licensing issues, and the need for frequent upgrades.
Software bugs are defects hindering functionality; reducing impacts involves updating and following manufacturer guidance.

Copyrights and Licenses

Software is typically protected under copyright or licensing laws.
Licensing structures vary, allowing unlimited use on selected devices or charging based on usage.
Registration or activation may be required for full software functionality.

Software Licenses

The End User License Agreement (EULA) outlines usage terms between the manufacturer and the user.
License types include single-user, individual/multi-user, and network/multi-user licenses.
A single-user license permits installation on one computer, limiting access to a single user without network sharing.

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Description

This quiz covers key concepts related to Business Information Systems, including the importance of hardware and software. It highlights how these components work together to enhance productivity, collaboration, and overall organizational performance. Managers' roles in evaluating and selecting appropriate technology are also discussed.