IT ENGLISH: WM Supplement (LF 1-5)

IT Apprenticeships and the Dual System

• IT apprenticeships combine practical training in a company with theoretical learning at a vocational school.
• Popular IT professions within the dual system include:
  • IT Specialist for Application Development
  • IT Specialist for System Integration
  • IT Systems Electronics Technician
  • IT Systems Management Assistant
• The training company provides hands-on experience in troubleshooting, customer support, and system installation.
• The vocational school provides theoretical foundation in IT fundamentals, programming, and network technology.
• Apprentices also learn about IT regulations, work safety, and customer service in the vocational school.
• The Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK) organizes exams, offers support, and ensures compliance with high training standards.
• Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship, trainees are well-prepared for the IT job market.

Participants in the Dual System

• The dual system involves two main partners: the training company and the vocational school.
• The IHK plays a vital role by:
  • Monitoring the quality of training
  • Ensuring compliance with the national curriculum
  • Awarding certifications after exams

Apprenticeship Rights and Obligations

• Apprentice rights are outlined in the Apprenticeship Contract and Vocational Training Act (BBiG).
• Apprentices have the right to training, fair pay, breaks, and vacation days.
• Apprentices are responsible for fulfilling assigned tasks, attending vocational school, following company rules, and maintaining a training logbook.
• Apprentices must protect company secrets as a matter of confidentiality.
• The training company's obligations include providing proper training, resources, and support to facilitate apprenticeship objectives.

Workplace Rights and Co-Determination

• German labor law protects employee rights, ensuring fair wages, regulated working hours, dismissal protection, and vacation time.
• Relevant laws include the Working Hours Act (ArbZG), the Dismissal Protection Act (KSchG), and the Federal Vacation Act (BUrlG).
• Co-determination empowers employees to influence workplace decisions that affect their working conditions.
• Works councils represent employees' interests and participate in decision-making regarding working hours, dismissals, and technology adoption.
• The Works Constitution Act (BetrVG) defines works council roles, responsibilities, and employee participation in decision-making processes.

JIKU IT-Solutions

• JIKU IT-Solutions is a fictional model company in the IT sector
• The company offers services in IT consulting, software development, and network technology
• JIKU IT-Solutions serves a variety of clients including small and medium sized businesses and large clients
• The company provides custom IT solutions tailored to the client's needs
• JIKU IT-Solutions has multiple departments where apprentices gain practical experience
• The departments include software development, IT support, and network administration
• JIKU IT-Solutions offers apprenticeships for IT professions such as IT specialist for application development or system integration
• JIKU IT-Solutions emphasizes both technical skills and social skills such as teamwork and communication

Betrieb vs. Unternehmen

• "Betrieb" refers to an operational unit where goods are produced or services are provided. It's the location of actual work, and can exist as part of a larger company or independently.
• "Unternehmen" is a legal entity that can consist of multiple Betriebe. Its aim is to generate profit.
• JIKU IT-Solutions is considered an "Unternehmen" with potentially multiple Betriebe, each specializing in specific services or locations.

Company Goals

• Companies focus on economic goals like profit maximization, cost reduction, revenue growth, and competitiveness.
• Social goals aim to provide safe and fair workplaces, promote employee motivation, and support social initiatives.
• Ecological goals focus on sustainable practices, like resource conservation, waste reduction, and using renewable energy.
• Betriebe generally focus on short-term, operational goals.
• Unternehmen often have long-term strategic goals, like achieving market positions and product innovation.

Organizational Structures

• Line organization is hierarchical, with employees reporting to one supervisor and decisions flowing downwards.
• Line-and-staff organization adds advisory staff positions to support line managers in specialized areas.
• Matrix organization makes employees report to multiple supervisors, creating a multi-line structure.
• Divisional organization splits the company into independent units, each managing specific products or markets.

Legal Forms of Companies In Germany

• Sole proprietorship is owned and run by one person, who is personally liable for company debts.
• Limited liability company (GmbH) allows shareholders to limit their liability to their contributions.
• Stock corporation (AG) owned by shareholders, only liable for their investment, ideal for large firms seeking stock market capital.
• General partnership (OHG) makes partners share liability (including personal assets) with no minimum capital required.
• Limited partnership (KG) has general partners with full liability and limited partners liable only up to their capital.

Value-Added Processes

• Value-added processes directly contribute to creating a product or service, generating value by transforming resources.
• Examples include product development, production/manufacturing, logistics, marketing and sales.

Business Processes

• Business processes encompass all company activities for organizing, managing, and maintaining operations.
• Include value-creating activities, supporting and administrative processes.
• Can be categorized into Core Processes (directly related to value creation), Support Processes (indirectly support core processes), and Management Processes (strategically manage the company).

Production Materials

• Raw Materials: Basic substances used in production, such as wood used in furniture.
• Auxiliary Materials: Supporting materials required during production, such as screws.
• Operating Materials: Materials used to run production, such as lubricants for machinery.

Knowledge and Information Technology

• Increasing Role: Technology plays a significant role in improving production efficiency.

Types of Goods

• Tangible Goods: Physical products that can be touched, such as cars or food.
• Services (Intangible Goods): Non-physical products provided through labor, such as IT consulting.
• Consumer Goods: Goods used directly by consumers, such as food or streaming services.
• Capital Goods: Items used to produce other goods, such as machinery.
• Durable Goods: Long-lasting products, like appliances.
• Non-durable Goods: Items consumed quickly, such as food or gasoline.

Organizational Tools

• Software and IT Systems: Tools like ERP and CRM systems help manage business processes.

Describing the Company and Role within the Organization

• Apprenticeships in IT are part of the dual system, combining vocational training at a company with theoretical instruction at a vocational school
• The IHK (Chamber of Industry and Commerce) is responsible for regulating and overseeing apprenticeships in Germany
• IT systems management assistant, data analyst, and cloud engineer are career paths offered within the IT field
• Theoretical topics are taught at vocational schools to prepare apprentices with a strong foundation in IT concepts, regulations, and best practices

Describing the Training Company

• JIKU IT-Solutions is a model company that illustrates real-world business practices and challenges
• Local businesses and companies are distinct due to their size, specialization, and market focus
• Company goals are driving forces that shape the business, such as expansion, innovation, and customer satisfaction
• Different organizational structures, such as hierarchical, flat, and matrix structures, influence decision-making and communication
• Legal forms of companies, such as sole proprietorships, partnerships, and corporations, determine ownership, liability, and tax obligations
• Value-added processes create tangible benefits for customers through the transformation of resources, while support processes optimize daily operations
• Production factors, including labor, capital, land, and entrepreneurship, drive production processes and contribute to value creation
• Types of goods offered by companies vary based on their industry, such as tangible products, services, or a combination
• Organizational tools, such as project management software, communication platforms, and CRM systems, facilitate efficient workflow and collaboration

Describing the Market Environment of the Training Company

• Economic cycles influence market trends and business activity, with periods of expansion and contraction
• Market situations refer to the competitive landscape, demand for goods and services, and pricing dynamics

Presenting the Training Company

• Presentations are a crucial tool for conveying information and showcasing the training company's capabilities
• Teamwork is essential for preparing compelling presentations that highlight the company's value proposition
• Presentations should be well-structured, visually appealing, and tailored to the audience
• Reviewing and reflecting on presentations helps improve communication skills and the overall presentation process

Equipping Workplaces According to Client Needs

• Basic computer functions, such as operating systems, file management, and software applications, are foundational for IT professionals
• Key developments in computer technology have shaped the evolution of computing, including microprocessors, personal computers, and the internet
• Development trends in the IT industry encompass advancements in hardware, software, and network technologies
• Major component manufacturers supply building blocks for computer systems, contributing to innovation and competition
• System architectures, such as client-server and cloud models, determine how data is processed and shared

Presenting the Training Company’s Service Portfolio

• Workplaces and work environments are tailored to accommodate specific IT systems and user needs
• Marketable IT systems, such as desktop computers, laptops, servers, and network infrastructure, are tailored to different business applications
• IT service portfolios outline the range of technical services offered by the training company, including installation, maintenance, and support

Differentiating Selection Criteria for IT Products

• Quality and performance of IT systems and services are critical factors in choosing the right products
• Environmental protection and Green IT goals emphasize energy efficiency and sustainable practices in the IT industry
• IT system efficiency relates to resource utilization, processing speed, and overall performance
• IT security, information, and data protection are paramount in safeguarding sensitive data and ensuring compliance

Differentiating Components of a Workplace Computer

• The central processing unit (CPU) acts as the brain of a computer, executing instructions and processing data
• The mainboard, also known as the motherboard, connects components and facilitates communication within the computer
• Operating systems, such as Windows, macOS, or Linux, manage hardware resources and provide a user interface
• Motherboards house various components, including the CPU, memory slots, expansion slots, and input/output ports
• Processors are categorized by their core count, clock speed, and performance capabilities
• RAM (Random Access Memory) serves as temporary storage for active programs and data
• Ports and connections on the mainboard provide interfaces for peripherals, such as keyboards, mice, and monitors
• Power supplies convert electrical current to power the computer's components
• Hard drives store data permanently, with various types, including HDD (Hard Disk Drive) and SSD (Solid State Drive)
• Keyboards are input devices used to enter text and commands
• Monitors display visual information, with variations in screen size, resolution, and technology
• Printers provide hard copies of documents, with considerations for print quality, speed, and compatibility
• Scanners convert physical documents into digital formats, featuring different technologies and resolutions
• IT accessories, such as mouse, webcam, and speakers, enhance functionality and user experience
• Business software, such as accounting software, productivity suites, and specialized programs, supports business operations
• Marketable IT systems and solutions are tailored packages that meet specific business needs, often including hardware, software, and services

Considering Customer Requirements in the Service Process and Preparing for Project Management

• Ensuring customer satisfaction requires understanding their requirements and tailoring services accordingly
• Supporting marketing and sales promotion activities helps generate leads and attract new customers
• Project management principles are essential for effectively planning, organizing, and executing IT projects

Conducting Needs and Requirements Analyses

• The requirements analysis process involves gathering and analyzing customer needs and constraints
• Formulating customer requirements helps clarify the scope of the project and determine necessary resources
• Checking hardware and system requirements ensures compatibility with existing infrastructure and software

Creating Requirement Specifications

• Requirement specifications are detailed documents outlining the technical specifications for IT systems and services
• Conducting requirement analyses for desktops, workstations, laptops, tablets, and thin clients ensures optimal configuration for specific tasks
• Considerations for desktop-as-a-service (DaaS), renting, financing, and leasing services provide flexibility and cost-effective options

Calculating Quotes and Hourly Rates and Considering Profit Margins

• Revenue refers to the income generated through sales or services, while costs represent expenses incurred in operating the business
• Profit is the surplus remaining after deducting costs from revenue
• Accounting methods, such as accrual accounting, determine how revenue and expenses are recorded
• Retail price calculations involve adding a markup to the cost of products to determine selling prices
• Hourly rates for services reflect the value provided and are used to calculate project costs
• TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) accounts for all costs associated with an IT system over its lifetime, including initial purchase, maintenance, and support
• ROI (Return on Investment) measures the profitability of an investment and compares the benefits with the costs

Conducting Supplier Comparisons for Procurement Measures

• The procurement process encompasses identifying, evaluating, and selecting suppliers, as well as managing contracts
• Quantitative supplier comparisons involve analyzing factors such as pricing, quality, delivery times, and service levels
• Utility analyses assess the suitability of suppliers based on specific criteria
• Contract types and terms define the legal relationship between buyers and suppliers, including payment terms, warranty provisions, and liability clauses

Conducting Delivery, Installation, and Handover

• Acceptance procedures ensure that delivered products and services meet agreed-upon standards
• Workplace safety and health protection protocols minimize risks and promote a safe working environment
• Risk analysis for IT security at the workplace identifies potential threats and vulnerabilities
• Compliance with waste and recycling laws minimizes environmental impact
• The system delivery, installation, and handover process involves setting up the IT system, configuring software, and training users

Monitoring and Reflecting on the Learning Field

• Continuous learning and improvement are essential for professional development
• Reflecting on experiences helps identify areas for growth and refinement

Integrating Clients into Computer Networks

• Introducing the training company's network provides an overview of its capabilities and infrastructure

Differentiating Main Components of Computer Networks

• Computer networks connect devices and enable communication and data sharing
• Network areas are defined by their geographical scope, including local area networks (LANs) and wide area networks (WANs)
• Data centers house servers and network equipment, providing centralized data storage and computing power
• Clients are devices that connect to a network, such as computers, laptops, smartphones, and tablets

Fundamentals of Data Transmission in Networks

• Network functionality encompasses data transmission, routing, and security
• Access to network media, such as cabling, wireless signals, or fiber optic cables, is crucial for connectivity
• Ethernet is a widely used network standard that defines communication protocols and cabling requirements
• TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) is the foundation of the internet, enabling communication between different networks
• Cloud, Fog, and Edge computing are models that distribute data processing and storage to more remote locations

Differentiating Network Structures, Components, Standards, and Models

• Network topologies, such as star, bus, and mesh topologies, determine network structure and data flow
• Structured cabling ensures organized and scalable network infrastructure
• Network media types, including twisted-pair cable, coaxial cable, and fiber optic cable, vary in transmission speed and distance capability
• Network components, such as switches, routers, firewalls, and access points, perform specific tasks within the network
• Network standards, such as IEEE 802.3 (Ethernet) and IEEE 802.11 (Wi-Fi), ensure interoperability and compatibility
• The ISO/OSI (International Organization for Standardization/Open Systems Interconnection) and TCP/IP models provide frameworks for understanding network functionality
• Addresses in networks, such as MAC addresses and IP addresses, uniquely identify devices
• New developments in network technology, including 5G, Wi-Fi 6, and software-defined networking, enhance performance and scalability

Planning and Conducting Client Integration into a Network Independently

• Checking requirements of clients and the network ensures compatibility and efficient integration
• Using cloud services offers flexibility, scalability, and cost savings for clients
• Registering users for network access provides user accounts and appropriate security permissions

Testing and Maintaining Network Functionality for Clients

• Connection tests verify network connectivity and data transmission
• Name resolution tests ensure that devices can be located and accessed on the network
• Management and preventive maintenance ensure optimal network performance and minimize downtime

Selecting and Configuring Network Components

• Selecting the right switch involves considering factors such as capacity, speed, and features
• Selecting the right router involves considering factors such as routing protocols, security features, and VPN support
• New developments and trends in networking technology, such as network virtualization and SD-WAN, offer enhanced capabilities

Fundamentals of Data and Network Security

• RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) systems enhance data security and availability through redundancy
• Backup strategies involve creating copies of data to prevent data loss in case of hardware failures or cyberattacks
• Establishing network security involves implementing firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and other security measures
• Calculating IT system availability and downtime helps assess the impact of outages and downtime on business operations

Powering Devices

• General power supply provides the electrical energy required for network devices
• Green IT considers energy efficiency and environmental sustainability in network design and operation

Organizational Structure and Legal Forms

• Businesses consider organizational structure and legal forms to determine how they operate.
• Organizational structure defines how tasks, responsibilities, and authority are delegated within a company.
  • Line organization: A straightforward, hierarchical structure where employees report to a single supervisor, with decisions flowing from the top down.
  • Line-and-staff organization: Adds advisory positions to assist line managers in specialized areas like IT or legal, but without direct authority.
  • Matrix organization: Employees report to several supervisors, such as a functional department head and a project manager, creating a multi-line structure.
  • Divisional organization: Divides the company into independent units or divisions handling specific products or markets with its own departments.
• Legal forms of companies define legal framework, liability, taxation, and profit distribution.
  • Sole proprietorship (Einzelunternehmen): Operated by one individual who is fully liable with personal assets.
  • Limited liability company (GmbH): Liability is limited to shareholders' contributions, reducing personal risk.

Business Processes

• Business processes are divided into three categories:
  • Core processes directly related to value creation, such as production or service delivery.
  • Support processes support core processes without directly creating value, like IT support, HR, or accounting.
  • Management processes ensure strategic company direction, such as planning, controlling, or corporate management.

### IT Apprenticeships and the Dual System

• IT apprenticeships in Germany combine practical training within a company with theoretical learning at a vocational school.
• Popular professions include IT Specialist for Application Development, IT Specialist for System Integration, IT Systems Electronics Technician, and IT Systems Management Assistant.
• The dual system involves the training company, the vocational school, and the Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK).
• The training company provides practical skills and technical knowledge relevant to daily tasks, such as troubleshooting, customer support, and system installation.
• The vocational school offers theoretical foundation, including IT fundamentals, programming, and network technology.
• The vocational school also covers IT regulations, work safety, and customer service.
• The IHK organizes exams, offers support, ensures compliance with high training standards, and monitors the quality of training.
• Apprenticeships prepare individuals for various roles in the IT job market.

Rights and Obligations in the Apprenticeship Relationship

• The apprentice has the right to proper training, fair pay, regular breaks, and vacation days.
• The apprentice is responsible for performing assigned tasks carefully, attending vocational school regularly, adhering to company rules, and maintaining a training logbook.
• The training company has the obligation to provide the apprentice with necessary resources and guidance to help them meet their training objectives.

Workplace Rights and Co-Determination

• German labor law safeguards employees' rights, including fair wages, regulated working hours, protection from unfair dismissal, and the right to vacation.
• Co-determination allows employees to have a say in workplace decisions, particularly those impacting their working conditions.
• The Works Council represents employees' interests in many companies and influences decisions on working hours, dismissals, and the adoption of new technologies.
• The Works Constitution Act (BetrVG) defines the rights and responsibilities of works councils and outlines employee participation in decision-making processes.

Company Structures: Organizational and Legal Forms

• Aufbauorganisation (organizational structure) defines how tasks, responsibilities, and authority are distributed within a company.
• Common organizational forms include:
  • Line organizations have a hierarchical structure with each employee reporting to one supervisor.
  • Line-and-staff organizations are structured like line organizations but include advisory staff positions without authority.
  • Matrix organizations allow employees to report to more than one supervisor, creating a multi-line reporting structure.
  • Divisional organizations divide the company into independent units responsible for specific products or markets, each with its own departments.
• Unternehmensrechtsformen (legal forms) determine the legal framework, liability, taxation, and profit distribution for a company.
• Common legal forms in Germany include:
  • Sole proprietorship is owned and managed by one individual who is personally liable for all obligations.
  • GmbH (limited liability company) limits the liability of shareholders to their capital contributions.
  • AG (stock corporation) is owned by shareholders who are only liable for their invested capital.
  • OHG (general partnership) involves partners who share liability, including their personal assets.
  • KG (limited partnership) combines general partners with full liability and limited partners with liability limited to their capital contribution.

Differentiating Value-Added and Business Processes

• Value-added processes directly contribute to a product or service's creation, generating added value for the customer.
• Examples of value-added processes include product development, production or manufacturing, logistics, and marketing and sales.
• Business processes are broader and encompass all activities necessary to organize, manage, and maintain operations.
• Examples of business processes include financial management, human resource management and administration, accounting, and customer service.
• Business processes also include supporting and administrative processes that do not directly add value but contribute to overall company efficiency.

Describing the Company and Role within the Organization

• IT Apprenticeships: Apprentices learn technical skills and social skills like teamwork and communication.
• Dual System: Participants combine practical on-the-job training with theoretical education at vocational school.
• Rights & Obligations: Apprentices have rights such as fair pay, breaks, and holidays. Obligations include completing tasks, attending vocational school, abiding by company rules, and maintaining confidentiality.
• JIKU IT-Solutions: JIKU IT-Solutions offers training programs in IT and specializes in services like IT consulting, software development, and network technology.
• Differentiating Local Businesses and Companies: A "Betrieb" is an operational unit where work is performed, while a "Unternehmen" is a legal and economic entity managing multiple operations.
• Company Goals Companies typically have economic goals like profit maximization and cost reduction, social goals like employee satisfaction, and ecological goals like sustainability.

Equipping Workplaces According to Client Needs

• Introduction to IT: Explores basic computer functions, key developments in computer technology, and current trends in IT.
• IT Service Portfolio: Covers workplace IT systems, marketable IT systems, and JIKU IT-Solutions' range of services.
• Selection Criteria: Emphasizes factors like IT system quality & performance, environmental considerations (Green IT), system efficiency, and security & data protection.
• Components of a Workplace Computer: Covers details like the CPU, motherboard, RAM, hard drives, ports, connections, power supplies, keyboards, monitors, printers, scanners, and IT accessories.
• Customer Requirements: Focuses on incorporating customer satisfaction into the service process, marketing and sales promotion, the role of project management in order processing.
• Needs and Requirements Analyses: Explains the process of defining customer requirements, checking hardware and system requirements.
• Requirement Specifications: Covers requirements for desktops, workstations, laptops, tablets, and thin clients, as well as alternative options like desktop-as-a-service, renting, financing, and leasing.
• Calculating Quotes and Hourly Rates: Explains revenue, costs, profit, accounting methods, retail price calculations, hourly rates for services, and considerations like TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) and ROI (Return on Investment).
• Supplier Comparisons: Covers the procurement process, planning, conducting quantitative supplier comparisons, utility analyses, and contract types and terms.
• Delivery, Installation, and Handover: Prepares for the acceptance of products and services considering workplace safety, health protection, IT security risks, and compliance with waste and recycling laws.
• Monitoring and Reflecting: Encourages continuous assessment and improvement within the training program.

Understanding Company Structures and Legal Forms

• Company structure determines how tasks, responsibilities, and authority are distributed within a company.
• Common organizational structures include:
  • Line organization: Hierarchical structure where each employee reports to one supervisor, with clear decision-making flow from the top down.
  • Line-and-staff organization: Adds specialist advisory positions like IT or legal, offering support to line managers without direct authority.
  • Matrix organization: Employees report to multiple supervisors, like a department head and a project manager, creating a network-like structure.
  • Divisional organization: Divides the company into independent units or divisions, each focused on specific products or markets, with its own departments.
• Legal form of a company outlines its legal framework, liability, taxation, and profit distribution.
• Common legal forms in Germany:
  • Sole proprietorship (Einzelunternehmen): One individual operates the business and is fully liable with personal assets.
  • Limited liability company (GmbH): Liability is limited to shareholder contributions.
  • Offene Handelsgesellschaft (OHG): Partners share full liability, including personal assets.
  • Kommanditgesellschaft (KG): Consists of 'Komplementäre' with unlimited liability and 'Kommanditisten' with limited liability based on investment.

Value-Added Processes vs. Business Processes

• Value-added processes directly contribute to product or service creation, generating added value through resource transformation into a sellable product or service.
  • Examples include production, logistics, and marketing/sales.
• Business processes encompass all company activities for organization, management, and operational maintenance.
  • Include both value-added processes and supporting/administrative processes like finance and HR.
  • Business processes describe the overall sequence of activities needed to achieve company goals.

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