EIS Component 3: Hardware of an Enterprise Information System PDF

EIS Component 3: The Hardware of an Enterprise Information System ================================================================= \>\> Introduction ----------------- Let's turn to the third component of an Enterprise Information System: **Hardware.** As we\'ll see, defining what constitutes har...

EIS Component 3: The Hardware of an Enterprise Information System ================================================================= \>\> Introduction ----------------- Let's turn to the third component of an Enterprise Information System: **Hardware.** As we\'ll see, defining what constitutes hardware in an EIS isn\'t as straightforward as you might think, and it can vary significantly depending on an organization\'s perspective and business model. \>\> Overview of Physical Assets -------------------------------- We'll begin by considering the vast array of physical assets an organization might use. These can range from highly sophisticated robotics and complex heating and cooling systems to everyday office equipment like computers, laptops, and printers. But it doesn\'t stop there! Organizations also use very ANALOG physical assets like hammers, saws, and even toasters in their day-to-day operations. Now, here\'s a question for you to ponder: *Which of these diverse physical assets actually constitute the Hardware of an EIS?* \>\> Defining Hardware in an EIS -------------------------------- Before we answer that, let\'s establish a general definition of \"Hardware\" in the context of an EIS. Hardware in an EIS refers to **the physical, tangible components that support the processing, storage, communication, and interaction of data and applications within an organization**. Put in more simple terms, that means that Hardware is anything that we can TOUCH and that is used in order to STORE, to USE, to CHANGE, and to SEND Data and/or Software. \>\> Spectrum of Hardware Scope ------------------------------- As with the Rules and Protocols and the People components we discussed in previous videos, there isn\'t a single standard that defines the scope of an EIS\'s hardware. Instead, organizations often choose from a spectrum of definitions, ranging from narrow to broad -- similarly to the People component. \>\> The Narrowest View ----------------------- At its narrowest, some organizations consider only the computer equipment that is directly part of their NETWORK to be their EIS hardware. This includes: 1. Servers -- Servers. These are simply very powerful computers with a large storage capacity. They are use to manage and store data, applications, and services CENTRALLY. 2. Networking Devices -- Networking devices consist of elements such are routers, switches, and firewalls, all of which will come to shortly in this course. 3. Storage Devices -- Storage Devices such as hard drives, solid-state drives, and network-attached storage. Like networking devices, these will be explained a bit later in this course. 4. Client Computers -- Client Computers are the desktops, laptops, tablets, and mobile phones used by employees. 5. Peripheral Devices -- Peripheral Devices consist of hardware such as printers, scanners, keyboards, mouses, webcams, headphones and so forth. This narrow view focuses on the core IT infrastructure that directly handles data processing and communication. \>\> A Broader Perspective -------------------------- Most organizations, however, adopt a broader definition. They include not only networked computer equipment but also any type of digitalized equipment that is used to MANUFACTURE products, to STORE products and/or raw materials, and to TRANSPORT products, raw materials or other assets. Basically any equipment that forms part of the Internet of Things (IoT). These smart devices receive and deliver data to the organization\'s network, effectively extending the reach of the EIS. Examples include: 1. Smart sensors that collect real-time data on equipment performance or environmental conditions. 2. Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), known more simply as self-driving vehicles. 3. Collaborative Robots (Cobots) built to work alongside humans in manufacturing. 4. 3D Printers that create objects based on digital designs. 5. Smart Conveyor Systems that sort and route items to their target destination. 6. and Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS), which are used for warehouse management. \>\> The Broadest View ---------------------- The most comprehensive perspective on EIS hardware goes even further. It includes any physical equipment that, while not directly connected to the organization\'s DIGITAL network, still requires or generates data in the context of its use. This could include standalone refrigerators, stoves, drills, or other equipment that, while not \"SMART\" or connected to a network, still play a role in data-generating business processes. \>\> Tailoring the Hardware Scope to Your Business Model -------------------------------------------------------- When defining the scope of your OWN EIS hardware, we recommend that you base your decision on your overall business model. For example: 1. A consulting agency might have a stove in its employee kitchen for heating lunches. In this case, we wouldn\'t include the stove as part of the EIS hardware, simply because it\'s not integral to the core business processes or data management of the consulting agency. 2. On the other hand, consider a pastry shop whose main business is baking and selling pastries. In this case, we absolutely WOULD include ovens, mixers, and even refrigerators as part of the EIS hardware. Why? Because these pieces of equipment, even if they\'re not \"smart\" or connected, are crucial to the core business processes. They require and generate important data - like 'baking times', 'temperatures', or 'ingredient usage' - that feed into the overall information system of the bakery. The key is to consider how important each piece of equipment is to your core business processes and data management needs.