Software Outsourcing and Various Software Sources
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Questions and Answers

When evaluating off-the-shelf software, which action most effectively ensures the software meets the specific needs of the intended system?

  • Testing the software based on predetermined selection criteria. (correct)
  • Reviewing the vendor's marketing materials.
  • Examining the software's code for potential vulnerabilities.
  • Consulting with internal IT staff about their personal preferences.

Why is creating a scoring value for each item requested in a Request for Proposal (RFP) important when soliciting proposals from multiple vendors?

  • It helps ensure that all vendors charge similar prices.
  • It allows for a more objective and standardized comparison of proposals. (correct)
  • It reduces the amount of time needed to review each proposal.
  • It guarantees that the selected vendor will provide the lowest possible price.

What is the primary purpose of a Request for Proposal (RFP) in the context of acquiring new system software?

  • To solicit proposals from vendors that outline how their solutions can meet the system's requirements. (correct)
  • To outline the legal terms and conditions of software licensing agreements.
  • To provide vendors with a detailed blueprint of the new system's architecture.
  • To publicly announce the organization's intention to purchase new software.

What is the most significant risk associated with disseminating or selling copyrighted educational materials, such as instructor resources, on the internet?

<p>It could damage the integrity of the copyrighted work. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Besides testing and scoring RFPs, what is another recommended method for validating purchased software?

<p>Gathering Feedback from other users of the software. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A company decides to adopt cloud computing for its new customer relationship management (CRM) system. Which of the following is the LEAST likely benefit they would expect?

<p>Complete control over the CRM system's security protocols and data storage locations. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

An organization is considering whether to develop a new inventory management system in-house or to purchase a cloud-based solution. Which factor would most strongly favor in-house development?

<p>The organization requires highly customized features that are not available in off-the-shelf solutions. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A software company distributes its software under an open-source license. What are the primary ways the company can generate revenue from this open-source software?

<p>By offering maintenance, support services, and selling enhanced versions of the software. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A small business is choosing between using Google Docs and Microsoft Office 365. Which of the following benefits is MOST directly associated with utilizing either of these cloud-based office suites?

<p>Automatic data backup and version control, minimizing the risk of data loss. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

An organization is debating whether to use cloud computing or in-house development. Which scenario would make cloud computing a more advantageous choice than in-house development?

<p>When the application needs to be accessed from multiple devices. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

An organization is deciding between developing software in-house and purchasing an off-the-shelf package. Which criterion is MOST crucial in this 'make vs. buy' decision?

<p>Cost comparison between the two options. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A company requires a new CRM system. They prioritize having a system tailored precisely to their unique sales process, even if it means higher upfront costs and longer development time. According to the table, which source of software components is MOST suitable?

<p>In-house developers (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

An organization aims to implement a new HR system. They need a solution that covers all aspects of HR, from payroll to performance management, and integrates seamlessly with their existing accounting software. Which source of software component is MOST appropriate?

<p>Enterprise-Wide Solutions Vendor (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A small business seeks a customer relationship management (CRM) solution. Their priority is to have the system up and running quickly with minimal IT overhead. Which source of software components should they prioritize?

<p>Cloud computing (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A non-profit organization needs a basic accounting software package. They are looking for a cost-effective solution with standard features, but they have limited technical expertise for extensive customization. Which source of software components is MOST fitting?

<p>Open-source software (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A hospital is implementing a new Electronic Health Records (EHR) system. They require extensive customization to meet specific regulatory requirements and integrate with their existing systems. They also require ongoing support and maintenance. Which source of software components is MOST suitable?

<p>IT services firms (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

An e-commerce company wants to improve its customer service by adding a chatbot to its website. The company lacks the internal expertise to develop the chatbot from scratch. Which source of software components is MOST suitable if they need custom features?

<p>IT services firms (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

An accounting firm is looking to purchase tax preparation software. They need to ensure that the software is up-to-date with the latest tax laws and regulations. Which of the following off-the-shelf software criteria is MOST important?

<p>Vendor support (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is the MOST significant benefit an organization gains by outsourcing its information systems applications?

<p>Access to specialized skills and technologies without long-term investment. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A company decides to outsource its payroll processing. Which of the following justifications BEST aligns with common reasons for outsourcing?

<p>To reduce the complexity of managing non-core business processes. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

An organization wants to adopt a new CRM (Customer Relationship Management) system. Considering the various sources of software, which approach offers the FASTEST implementation timeline?

<p>Cloud computing (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A startup with a limited budget needs a basic accounting software package. Which software source would likely offer the MOST cost-effective solution?

<p>Open-source software. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A large multinational corporation requires a highly customized supply chain management (SCM) system that integrates with its existing infrastructure. Which software source offers the GREATEST flexibility for customization?

<p>IT services firms providing tailored solutions. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A company is evaluating several off-the-shelf software packages. Which factor is MOST critical in determining the long-term suitability of the software?

<p>The software's compatibility with existing systems and scalability for future growth. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following scenarios would make in-house software development the MOST appropriate choice?

<p>When the organization has highly specialized needs that cannot be met by existing software. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A company wants to leverage cloud computing for its new project. Which of the following BEST describes a key advantage of using cloud services compared to traditional on-premise solutions?

<p>Scalability and on-demand resource allocation. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the primary function of IT service firms?

<p>Developing customized information systems for internal use by other companies. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A company requires a software solution that can be rapidly deployed and addresses common business tasks with minimal customization. Which type of software provider would be the most suitable?

<p>A packaged software provider offering off-the-shelf solutions. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

An organization aims to integrate its various business functions, such as finance, HR, and supply chain, into a unified system. Which type of software solution is most appropriate?

<p>Enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key advantage of using an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system compared to using multiple, separate software systems for different business functions?

<p>A single data repository leading to more consistent and accurate information. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A small business needs accounting software. They want something ready to use with minimal setup. They do not have complex needs. Which software would be the best choice?

<p>Off-the-shelf accounting software like QuickBooks. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a key characteristic of prepackaged 'off-the-shelf' software?

<p>It is ready to use immediately but may only meet a portion of an organization's needs. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A large multinational corporation wants to overhaul its entire IT infrastructure, integrating all departments and processes into a single, unified system. Resources are not an issue. Which solution is most appropriate?

<p>Adopting an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a primary advantage of cloud computing services for businesses?

<p>Scalability and flexibility in resource allocation based on demand. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Request for Proposal (RFP)

A document requesting vendors to propose hardware and software solutions for a new system.

Software Testing

Testing software against predefined criteria after selecting possible options.

User Feedback

Gather opinions and experiences from current users to inform your choice.

Scoring Value

Assign a weight or importance score to each requirement to compare vendor proposals fairly.

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Outsourcing

Contracting a third-party to handle certain business functions or processes.

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Cloud Computing

Providing computing resources (applications) over the Internet, eliminating the need for customers to invest in infrastructure.

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Software as a Service (SaaS)

Software distribution model where applications are hosted by a vendor and made available to customers over the Internet.

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Open-Source Software

Software with freely available source code, developed collaboratively by a community.

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In-House Development

Creating systems using an organization's own employees and resources.

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Hybrid System Development

A combination of internally developed and externally purchased system components

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Reasons for Outsourcing

To free internal expertise, to reduce time to market, and to increase process efficiencies.

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Sources of Application Software

Firms that provide IT services, packaged software, enterprise software, cloud computing, open-source software and in-house development.

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IT Services Firms

Consulting firms that develop, integrate, and maintain custom software applications.

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Packaged Software Providers

Pre-written, standardized applications available for purchase or lease.

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Enterprise Software

Large-scale software solutions that integrate various business functions across an entire organization.

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Packaged Software Producers

Software firms that provide ready-made software solutions applicable to a wide range of users.

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Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)

Software intended to integrate individual business functions into modules for seamless transactions within a single system.

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Accenture

A company that concentrates on IT services.

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Microsoft

A company that provides packaged software.

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Oracle

A company that delivers enterprise software solutions, like ERP systems.

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SAP AG

A company offering enterprise software solutions, particularly ERP systems.

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Single Data Repository

Benefit of ERP systems ensures data consistency and accuracy through a single repository.

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Enterprise-Wide Solutions Vendors

Vendors offering complete systems across functional areas.

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In-House Developers

Internal team building systems from scratch.

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Software Cost Considerations

Comparing internal development expenses with purchase/license costs.

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Software Functionality

Mandatory, essential, and desired system features.

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Study Notes

  • Software development was primarily in-house and created from scratch

Outsourcing

  • Outsourcing refers to assigning responsibilities for an organization's information systems applications and operations to an external firm
  • Companies outsource to free up internal resources
  • Outsourcing helps the organization to increase revenue and process efficiencies
  • Outsourcing helps to reduce time to market
  • Outsourcing helps to focus on noncore activities

Various Software Sources

  • Software sources can be categorized into six major groups
  • IT service firms assist companies in developing customer information systems for internal use, and employ skilled IT professionals
  • Packaged software producers serve diverse market segments, ranging from general productivity tools to niche packages and some off-the-shelf systems cannot be modified
  • Prepackaged software is also called "off-the-shelf"
  • ERP systems integrate individual traditional business functions into modules for seamless transactions
  • A single repository of ERP results in consistent data
  • Additional modules can be added to ERP as needed
  • The global cloud-computing market is estimated at $490.3 billion, projected to grow to $591.8 billion in 2023
  • Cloud computing provides computing resources and applications over the Internet
  • Cloud computing customers do not need to invest in computing infrastructure and they pay on a per-use basis or license
  • Cloud-computing examples include Google Docs and Salesforce
  • Clouding computing benefits include freeing staff, faster access to applications, and lower costs
  • Security and reliability are key cloud-computing concerns
  • Open-source software includes the source code and are freely available
  • Open-source software is developed by a community
  • Open-source software does the same functions as commercial software
  • Examples of Open-source software are Linux, mySQL, and Firefox
  • You can make money with open-source software by maintenance/services fees
  • You can make money with open-source software by selling a more full-featured version

In-House Development

  • In-house development is when an organization uses its own staff to create the systems
  • This can lead to more maintenance
  • It is not unusual to incorporate a hybrid of in-house and purchased components

Choosing Software

  • Common criteria to consider when choosing off-the-shelf software
  • Cost: compare developing in-house vs. purchasing or licensing
  • Functionality: the tasks that the software can perform and the mandatory, essential, and desired system features
  • Vendor Support: can vendor provide support and how much can be provided
  • Flexibility: the ease with which software is customized
  • Documentation: understandable and up-to-date user's manual and technical documentation

Request for Proposal (RFP)

  • Document provided to vendors asking them to meet the requirements of a new hardware and system
  • Testing the software determines if it meets the selection criteria
  • Gathering information from other users of the software is key
  • Scoring each item requested is important when soliciting RFPs from more than one vendor

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Description

Explanation of software outsourcing and its benefits like freeing up internal resources, increasing revenue, and reducing time to market. Description of various software sources, including IT service firms, packaged software producers, and ERP systems.

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