Pervasive Computing Concepts

Pervasive Computing

• Pervasive computing is when computing power is incorporated into everyday objects
• Ubiquitous computing is another term for this concept, implying computers are present everywhere
• Information systems are no longer confined to desks in offices
• Computing power is integrated into various existing objects

Learning Outcomes

• List and describe applications for wearable technology
• List four mobile devices that access Wi-Fi
• Explain why a business may offer free Wi-Fi
• Describe the benefits of e-commerce
• Define a Phicon
• List four examples of e-money
• List three examples of CSCW technologies
• Describe the purpose of virtual pets
• Define tangible media

Principles

• Computing no longer only refers to PCs on desks
• Mobile devices let employees access information from anywhere
• Customers can interact with businesses in new ways
• Teams across geographical regions can work together efficiently
• E-commerce and m-commerce are used innovatively to improve organizational operations

Mobile Internet Access

• Mobile access to info 'on the move' often relies on Wi-Fi
• General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) is another key technology

Mobile Devices

• The number of Wi-Fi enabled mobile devices is increasing
• Examples include smartphones, tablets, laptops, netbooks, smartwatches, and smart glasses

Wearable Technology

• Wearable technology, or Wearable Computing, involves computing devices worn on the body
• Examples include smart bracelets, smart fingers, smart rings, smart belts, smart pants, smart socks, smart glasses, smart watches, smart shirts, body control devices, Bluetooth devices, key trackers, and smart shoes

E-Money

• E-money represents electronic funds transfers instead of physical coins or notes
• Can be implemented via credit/debit cards, mobile phone accounts (e.g., Kenyan M-Pesa), smart cards (like Areyeng BRT card), and cryptocurrencies

Tangible Media

• Tangible media involves incorporating computing power or digital info into everyday objects
• A Phicon is a good example, a real object interacting with a digital environment
• Kiss Messenger, CuteCircuit Hug shirt are other examples

Personal Robotics & Virtual Pets

• Personal robotics includes robotic companions for socializing or automating chores (like Tega kids' companion, Roomba vacuum cleaner)
• Virtual pets are artificial companions designed to foster user responsibility

Computer Supported Cooperative Work (CSCW)

• CSCW technologies enable groups to work together, regardless of location
• CSCW can be synchronous or asynchronous
• Examples include videoconferencing, interactive whiteboards, messaging, wikis, MMOGs, blogs, and podcasts

Electronic and Mobile Commerce Applications

• Many B2B, B2C, C2C, and m-commerce applications are present in retail, wholesale, manufacturing, marketing, investment, finance, and auctions
• E-tailing is direct sales through electronic storefronts (like Pick n Pay, Game)
• A cybermall is a website offering many products at one location (e.g., Australian Cybermall)
• Market segmentation targets specific markets with ads
• CRM (customer relationship management) uses detailed customer info to personalize relationships

Electronic and Mobile Commerce Applications (continued)

• Online stock trading, online banking, and online auctions (like eBay, Aucor, BidX1) are vital to electronic commerce
• Technology enabled relationship management is crucial for optimizing business-customer relationships

Benefits of Electronic and Mobile Commerce

• Global reach for businesses
• Reduced costs (faster, more accurate goods flow, and no human data entry)
• Improved customer service (details on delivery, meeting demand)

Summary

• Computing expands beyond desktop computers
• Mobile devices let employees access info anywhere
• Mobile tech enables new customer interaction styles
• Teams across geographic locations can work efficiently
• E-commerce and m-commerce improve organizational operations

Review Questions

• The document contains a list of questions to review different aspects of the subject

Questions

• There are no specific questions in the document; this is a general title.

Explore the fundamentals of pervasive computing, where technology is seamlessly integrated into everyday life. This quiz covers applications of wearable technology, mobile device connectivity, and the implications of e-commerce. Gain insights into how computing is transforming business interactions and collaborative work.