Pervasive Computing and Mobile Devices

Pervasive Computing

• The term "computing" is no longer limited to desktop computers.
• Mobile devices allow employees and customers to interact with businesses from anywhere.
• Technologies facilitate efficient teamwork across geographical and time zones.
• E-commerce and m-commerce improve organizational efficiency in innovative ways.

Learning Objectives

• Identify the variety of devices incorporating computing power.
• Describe the business benefits of mobile devices.
• Discuss and evaluate technologies supporting teamwork despite time and location differences.
• Describe the process for selecting a mobile system to support business goals.

Wireless Internet Access

• Wi-Fi and 4G/5G are common wireless communication methods.
• Wi-Fi hotspots provide wireless access in various locations (e.g., cafes, airports).
• Some locations have free or paid Wi-Fi.
• Mobile devices are increasingly used for accessing information.

Mobile Devices

• Smartphones and tablets are viable alternatives to laptops.
• Accessories like keyboards expand functionality.
• Smartphones can be used for presentations, navigation (using GPS), and multimedia playback.

Wearable Technology

• Wearable technology seamlessly incorporates computing into clothing.
• Wearable computing refers to computers and technology worn on the body.
• Potential applications include navigation, personal information sharing, task assistance, and security.

Ethical and Societal Issues

• Ransomware is a major concern.
• Ransomware can encrypt data and demand payment for decryption.
• Data backups are vital to mitigate ransomware risk.
• Downloading untrusted software should be avoided.

Computer-Supported Cooperative Work (CSCW)

• CSCW technologies enable collaborative work, regardless of location.
• Videoconferencing allows simultaneous meetings across distances.
• Messaging (email, instant messaging) supports asynchronous communication.
• Interactive whiteboards facilitate real-time collaboration and note-taking in meetings.

Wikis

• Wikis are web pages anyone can edit with appropriate authority.
• Wikipedia is the most famous example.

MMOGs

• Massively multiplayer online games (MMOGs) create 3D virtual worlds.
• Users interact through avatars within these virtual environments.
• Virtual worlds like Second Life are used for meetings and marketing.

Blogs, Podcasts, and Live Streaming

• Blogs (weblogs) are online diaries allowing for one-to-many communication.
• Podcasts are audio broadcasts.
• Live streaming provides real-time video broadcasting.
• RSS feeds permit automated content updates.

Cloud Tools

• Cloud-based software is accessible from various devices.
• Cloud computing facilitates collaborative work through browsers.

E-commerce and M-commerce

• E-commerce (also called e-tailing) involves direct sales online.
• Cybermalls are centralized online marketplaces.
• M-commerce is mobile commerce, supporting transactions through mobile devices.
• Electronic exchanges facilitate seamless interactions between manufacturers, suppliers, and buyers.

Teleworking

• Remote work, known as teleworking, has increased due to lockdowns.
• Technologies like videoconferencing and messaging platforms have enabled remote work to flourish.

Personal Robotics

• Robotics are useful in factories and space and now being utilized in everyday life as companions.
• Minerva was a talking robot designed for public interactions; Aibo from Sony was a robot puppy.

Virtual Pets

• Virtual pets started increasing in popularity in the late 1990s.
• Virtual pets like Tamagotchi and Aibo provide interaction and emotional connection with artificial companions.

Explore the impact of pervasive computing on business operations and teamwork. This quiz covers the variety of mobile devices, their business benefits, and the technologies enabling communication and collaboration across distances. Join to understand how wireless access enhances organizational efficiency.