CMPC 323 INTORDUCTION TO INFORMATION SYSTEM

MODULE 1: INFORMATION SYSTEM

INFORMATION SYSTEMS is an integrated set of components for collecting, storing, and
processing data and for delivering information, knowledge, and digital products. Business firms
and other organizations rely on information systems to carry out and manage their operations,
interact with their customers and suppliers, and compete in the marketplace.

Definition of terms:
INFORMATION is termed to as processed data, while data is
considered as raw facts. SYSYTEM is an interrelationship of
resources leading to the achievement of a goal.

COMPONENTS of a SYSTEM
a. GOAL— the objective of the firm
b. RESOURCES — can be considered as your, hardware, software and peopleware.
b.l. Hardware - Physical equipment that makes up a computer system.
b.2. Software - Organized information in the form of operating systems, utilities,
programs, and applications that enable computers to work.
b.3. Peopleware - refer to anything that has to do with the role of people in the
development or use of computer software and hardware systems, including such
issues as developer productivity, teamwork, group dynamics, the psychology of
programming, project management, organizational factors, human interface design,
and human-machine-interaction.
c. INTER-RELATIONSHIP - the means by which every resource communicate with each other.
EDP (electronic data processing) is an infrequently used term for what is today usually called
"IS" (information services or systems) or "MIS" (management information services or systems),
is the processing of data by a computer and its programs in an environment involving electronic
communication. EDP evolved from "DP" (data processing), a term that was created when most
computing input was physically put into the computer in punched card form and output as
punched cards or paper reports.

DATA PROCESSING - Manipulation of input data with an application program to obtain desired output as
an audio/video, graphic, numeric, or text data file.
INPUT — data feed to a system that is transformed by the system to become an output.
2. PROCESS - Sequence of interdependent and linked procedures which, at every stage,
consume one or more resources to convert inputs into outputs.
3. OUTPUT - A result produced by a computer that is internal to the system

One of the important tools in an EDP Environment is the use of electronic devices
which may consist of different types of computers.
CMPC 323 INTORDUCTION TO INFORMATION SYSTEM

COMPUTER
Computer is an electronic device that is designed to work with Information. The term
computer is derived from the Latin term 'computare', this means to calculate. Computer
cannot do anything without a Program. Computer is an advanced electronic device that
takes raw data as input from the user and processes these data under the control of set
of instructions (called program) and gives the result (output) and saves output for the
future use.

TYPES OF A COMPUTER
A. Supercomputer
Supercomputer is a broad term for one of the fastest computers currently available. A
supercomputer is a computer that performs at or near the currently highest operational
rate for computers. A supercomputer is typically used for scientific and engineering
applications that must handle very large databases or do a great amount of computation
(or both). Supercomputers are very expensive and are employed for specialized
applications that require immense amounts of mathematical calculations (number
crunching). For example, weather forecasting requires a supercomputer. Other uses of
supercomputers scientific simulations, (animated) graphics, fluid dynamic calculations,
nuclear energy research, electronic design, and analysis of geological data (e.g. in
petrochemical prospecting). As of November 2012, the Titan supercomputer is the fastest
in the world. It is almost 20 billion times faster than the first supercomputer (the CDC
6600).

B. Mainframe was a term originally referring to the cabinet containing the central processor
unit or "rnain frame" of a room-filling Stone Age batch machine. After the emergence of
smaller "minicomputer" designs in the early 1970s, the traditional big iron machines were
described as "mainframe computers" and eventually just as mainframes. Nowadays a
Mainframe is a very large and expensive computer capable of supporting hundreds, or even
thousands, of users simultaneously. The chief difference between a supercomputer and a
mainframe is that a supercomputer channels all its power into executing a few programs as
fast as possible, whereas a mainframe uses its power to execute many programs
concurrently. In some ways, mainframes are more powerful than supercomputers because
they support more simultaneous programs. But supercomputers can execute a single
program faster than a mainframe. The distinction between small mainframes and
minicomputers is vague, depending really on how the manufacturer wants to market its
machines.

Minicomputer
It is a midsize computer. In the past decade, the distinction between large
minicomputers and small mainframes has blurred, however, as has the distinction
CMPC 323 INTORDUCTION TO INFORMATION SYSTEM

between small minicomputers and workstations. But in general, a minicomputer is a

multiprocessing system capable of supporting from up to 200 users simultaneously.

D. Workstation
It is a type of computer used for engineering applications (CAD/CAM) , desktop
publishing, software development, and other types of applications that require a
moderate amount of computing power and relatively high quality graphics capabilities.
Workstations generally come with a large, high-resolution graphics screen, at large
amount of RAM, built-in network support, and a graphical user interface. Most
workstations also have a mass storage device such as a disk drive, but a special type of
workstation, called a diskless workstation, comes without a disk drive.
A computer designed for technical or scientific applications. Intended primarily to
be used by one person at a time, they are commonly connected to a local area network
and run multi-user operating systems. Like personal computers, most workstations are
single-user computers. However, workstations are typically linked together to form a
local-area network, although they can also be used as stand-alone systems.

N.B.: In networking, workstation refers to any computer connected to a local-area network. It

could be a workstation or a personal computer.

E. Personal computer
It can be defined as a small, relatively inexpensive computer designed for an individual
user. In price, personal computers range anywhere from a few hundred pounds to over
five thousand pounds. All are based on the microprocessor technology that enables
manufacturers to put an entire CPU on one chip. Businesses use personal computers for
word processing, accounting, desktop publishing, and for running spreadsheet and
database management applications. At home, the most popular use for personal
computers is for playing games and recently for surfing the Internet.

Personal Computer Types

Actual personal computers can be generally classified by size and chassis / case. The
chassis or case is the metal frame that serves as the structural support for electronic
components. Every computer system requires at least one chassis to house the circuit
boards and wiring. The chassis also contains slots for expansion boards. If you want to
insert more boards than there are slots, you will need an expansion chassis, which
provides additional slots. There are two basic flavors of chassis designs— desktop models
and tower models—but there are many variations on these two basic types. Then came
the portable computers that are computers small enough to carry. Portable computers
include notebook and subnotebook computers, hand-held computers, palmtops, and
PDAs.

1. Tower model The term refers to a computer in which the power supply , motherboard,
and mass storage devices are stacked on top of each other in a cabinet. This is in contrast
CMPC 323 INTORDUCTION TO INFORMATION SYSTEM

to desktop models, in which these components are housed in a more compact box. The
main advantage of tower models is that there are fewer space constraints, which makes
installation of additional storage devices easier.

2. Desktop model A computer designed to fit comfortably on top of a desk, typically with
the monitor sitting on top of the computer. Desktop model computers are broad and low,
whereas tower model computers are narrow and tall. Because of their shape, desktop
model computers are generally limited to three internal mass storage devices. Desktop
models designed to be very small are sometimes referred to as slimline models.

3. Notebook computer An extremely lightweight personal computer. Notebook computers

typically weigh less than 6 pounds and are small enough to fit easily in a briefcase. Aside
from size, the principal difference between a notebook computer and a personal
computer is the display screen. Notebook computers use a variety of techniques, known
as flat-panel technologies, to produce a lightweight and non-bulky display screen. The
quality of notebook display screens varies considerably. In terms of computing power,
modern notebook computers are nearly equivalent to personal computers. They have the
same CPUs, memory capacity, and disk drives. However, all this power in a small package
is expensive. Notebook computers cost about twice as much as equivalent regular-sized
computers. Notebook computers come with battery packs that enable you to run them
without plugging them in. However, the batteries need to be recharged every few hours.
4. Laptop computer A small, portable computer small enough that it can sit on your lap.
Nowadays, laptop computers are more frequently called notebook computers.

S. Subnotebook computer A portable computer that is slightly lighter and smaller than a
full-sized notebook computer. Typically , subnotebook computers have a smaller
keyboard and screen, but are otherwise equivalent to notebook computers.

6. Hand-held computer A portable computer that is small enough to be held in one's hand.
Although extremely convenient to carry, handheld computers have not replaced
notebook computers because of their small keyboards and screens. The most popular
hand-held computers are those that are specifically designed to provide PIM (personal
information manager) functions, such as a calendar and address book. Some
manufacturers are trying to solve the small keyboard problem by replacing the keyboard
with an electronic pen. However, these pen-based devices rely on handwriting
recognition technologies, which are still in their infancy. Hand-held computers are also
called PDAs, palmtops and pocket computers.

7. Palmtop A small computer that literally fits in your palm. Compared to full-size
computers, palmtops are severely limited, but they are practical for certain functions such
as phone books and calendars. Palmtops that use a pen rather than a keyboard for input
are often called hand-held computers or PDAs. Because of their small size, most palmtop
computers do not include disk drives. However, many contain PCMCIA slots in which you
CMPC 323 INTORDUCTION TO INFORMATION SYSTEM

can insert disk drives, modems, memory, and other devices. Palmtops are also called
PDAs, hand-held computers and pocket computers.

8. PDA Short for personal digital assistant, a handheld device that combines computing,
telephone/fax, and networking features. A typical PDA can function as a cellular phone,
fax sender, and personal organizer. Unlike portable computers, most PDAs are pen-based,
using a stylus rather than a keyboard for input. This means that they also incorporate
handwriting recognition features. Some PDAs can also react to voice input by using voice
recognition technologies. The field of PDA was pioneered by Apple Computer, which
introduced the Newton MessagePad in 1993. Shortly thereafter, several other
manufacturers offered similar products. To date, PDAs have had only modest success in
the marketplace, due to their high price tags and limited applications. However, many
experts believe that PDAs will eventually become common gadgets. PDAs are also called
palmtops, hand-held computers and pocket computers.

COMPUTER HARDWARE COMPONENTS AND

ARCHITECTURES
The hardware components of computer systems include differing interdependent components
specific functions, which can be classified as either processing or input/output control.
A. PROCESSING COMPONENTS
1. CPU - The central processing unit (CPU) processes all of the data that is accessed by the
machine. It is a small internal piece that is located beneath the fan.
a. The heart of the computer, this is the component that actually executes instructions
organized in programs ("software") which tell the computer what to do.
b. The CPU is attached to a string of conductors called a system data bus (bus: shared
electrical path)
c. When different computers share one CPU, this is called time sharing.

2. Motherboard - The motherboard is an underlying circuit board that holds all the computer
components together. Computer components, including the CPU, RAM, hard drive and optical
drives, plug into the motherboard. This allows the separate components to interact with each
other to create a fully functional machine. While each computer part has a unique function,
they would be utterly useless without the unifying motherboard.

3. DATA STORAGE — Every computer requires additional storage space, such as hard disk.
Data storage may be fixed, semi fixed or even removable. When a computer is turned on, initial
start-up is executed from storage disks, these is usually called the process of boot strapping or
initial program load. The operating system is then loaded together with the BIOS Setup (Basic
Input/Output System)

a. Internal Memory (fast, expensive, short-term memory): Enables a computer to store, at

least temporarily, data, programs, and intermediate results.
1. RAM — Random Access Memory( Primary Memory). Random access memory
provides a buffer between the hard drive and central processing unit. When files are
requested for processing, they transfer from the hard drive to the memory. The CPU
CMPC 323 INTORDUCTION TO INFORMATION SYSTEM

then processes the file and replaces it in the memory. The memory provides a
temporary storage that will be eliminated if power is removed from the machine. It is
important to save modified files to the hard drive so that they will be retained if the
power turns off.
2. ROM — Read Only Memory. Data stored in ROM cannot be modified, or can be
modified only slowly or with difficulty, so it is mainly used to distribute firmware
(software that is very closely tied to specific hardware, and unlikely to need frequent
updates).
b. Mass storage device (slower, cheaper, long-term memory): Allows a computer to
permanently retain large amounts of data and programs between jobs. Common mass
storage devices include disk drives and tape drives.
1. Hard Drive - A hard drive provides permanent storage for the operating system,
programs and files on a machine. When files are saved to the hard drive, they are
retained through power outages. New computers are usually equipped with SATA
drives, which have replaced the older IDE drive technology. These drives use slimmer
cables, smaller power connections, and have numerous performance benefits over the
older hard drive types. SATA hard drives do not get as hot and can transfer data faster.
2. CD and DVD drives
3. Floppy disk drive

5. INPUT/OUTPUT DEVICES
The I/O components are used to pass instructions/ information to the computer and to display
or record the output generated by the computer.
a. Input device: Usually a keyboard, a mouse or a touchscreen, the input device is the conduit
through which data and instructions enter a computer.
b. Output device: A display screen (monitor), printer, speaker, or other device that lets you
see what the computer has accomplished.

COMMON ENTERPRISE BACK-END DEVICES

In today's distributed environment, there are many different devices used in delivering application
services. The following are the most common devices encountered
ROLE FUNCTION EXAMPLES
User Workstation Runs applications to solve problems Microsoft Office, personal spreadsheets,
and can access data on network email client, web surfin . Usuall deskto or la
servers. to .
File Server Stores data files for shared user Microsoft and Novell shared network drives
access. Provide organization wide (usually labelled F: through Z:)
access to files and programs.
Document repositories can be
centralized to a few locations within
the organization and controlled with
an access control matrix. Group
collaboration and document
management are easier when a
CMPC 323 INTORDUCTION TO INFORMATION SYSTEM

document repository is used, rather

than dispersed storage across
multiple workstations.

Website Server Performs the same function as the Stores file on the web. Example: Google
file server. Provides information and Docs
services to external customers and
internal em 10 eesthrou h web a es.
DNS Server Converts server domain names into Converts an easy to remember name such as
their matching IP addresses. www.google.com into its corresponding IP
address. Domain Name System is a program
to find the IP addresses matching the name
you entered. DNS works like an automated
honebook.
Database Server Stores raw data and organizes it in Accounting software, sales automation, and
tables for authorized users to access. online shopping carts. Can exist on a file
server, web server, or dedicated machine.
May be internally developed or built using a
commercial product such as ORACLES L,
IBM Informix DB2.
Application server Application or program server
typically host software programs
that provide application access to
client computers, including
processing of the application
business logic and communication
with the application's database.
Consolidation of applications and
licenses in servers enables
centralized management and a more
secure environment
Print servers Businesses of all sizes requires that
tin ca abili be made available to
CMPC 323
users across multiple sites and
domains. Generally, a network
printer is configured based upon
where the printer is physically
located and who within the
organization needs to use it. Print
servers allow businesses to
consolidate printing resources for
cost-savin s.
Proxy server Provide an intermediate link
between users and resources. A
opposed to direct access, proxy
servers will access on a user's behalf.
Depending on the services being
provided, a proxy server may render
more secure and faster response than
direct access.
Appliances Provide a specific service normally
(specialized would not be capable of running
devices) other services. As a result the
devices are significantly smaller and
faster, and very efficient. Capacity
and performance demands certain
services to be run on appliances
instead of generic servers.
INTORDUCTION TO INFORMATION SYSTEM
FIREWALL- a specific device that inspects
a;; traffic going between segments and
applies security policies to help ensure a
secure network. An effective firewall
implementation depends on the quality of the
security policies written and their
compliance with the best practices
INTRUSION DETECTION SYSTEM
(IDS)- listens to all incoming and outgoing
traffic to deduce and warn potentially
malicious connections
INTRUSION PREVENTION SYSTEM
(IPS)actively attempts to prevent intrusion
by monitoring traffic and identifying
irregular usage patterns.
SWITCHES- Data link-level devices that can
divide and interconnect network segments
and help reduce collision domains in
Ethernet-based networks
ROUTERS- devices used to link two or more
physically separated segments. The network
segments linked by a router remain logically
separate and can function as independent
network.
VIRTUAL PRIVATE NETWORK (VPN)-
VPNs provide remote access to enterprise IT
CMPC 323 INTORDUCTION TO INFORMATION SYSTEM

resources or can link two or more physically

separate networks through a security tunnel.
A Secure Sockets LayerVirtual Private
Network (SSL-VPN) provides clientless
remote access only through an internet
browser.
LOAD BALANCER- a load balancer
distributes traffic across several different
devices to increase the rformance and
availabili of IT services.

COMMON CHARACTERISTICS OF DIFFERENT TYPES OF

COMPUTER
1. Speed
§ A computer is a very fast device. It can carry out instructions at a very high speed
obediently, uncritically and without exhibiting any emotions. It can perform in a
few seconds the amount of work that a human being can do in an entire year — if
he work day and night and is nothing else.
§ Some calculation that would have taken hours and days to complete otherwise, can
be completed in a few seconds using the computer. The speed of computer is
calculated in MHz that is one million instructions per second.
2. Accuracy
§ Accuracy of a computer is consistently high and the degree of accuracy of a
particular computer depends on the instructions and the type of processor. But for
a particular computer, each and every calculation is performed. For example, the
computer accurately gives the result of division of any number up to 10 decimal
points.
3. Versatility
§ Versatility is one of the most wonderful things about computer. Multi-processing
features of computer makes it quiet versatile in nature. One moment, it is preparing
the results of particular examination, the next moment it is busy preparing
CMPC 323 INTORDUCTION TO INFORMATION SYSTEM

electricity bills, and in between it may be helping an office secretary to trace an

important letter in seconds.
§ It can perform different types of tasks with same ease. All that is required to change
its talent is to slip in a new program into it. Briefly, a computer is capable of
performing almost any task provided that the task can be reduced to a series of
logical steps.
4. Reliability
§ Computer provides very high speed accompanied by an equality high level for
reliability. Thus computers never make mistakes of their own accord.
5. Power of Remembering
A computer can store and recall any amount of information because of its secondary
storage capability. Every piece of information can be retained as long as desired by the
user and it can be recalled information almost instantaneously. Even after several years,
the information recalled will be as accurate as on the day when it was fed to the computer.

6. No Intelligence
§ It possess no intelligence of its own. It can only perform what is programmed to
do. Hence, only the user can determine what tasks a computer will perform.
Computers have no sense of meaning, cannot perceive and are only able to make
simple robotic decision about the data they receive.
7. Common Data Used
One item can be involved in several different procedures or accessed, update and
inspected by a number of different users. This can hinder the work of those who need
access to data. As the time is changing, more and more facilities are being added to the
computers they can perform but in practical life many tasks are limited to these basic
operations.
8. Diligence
§ The computer is a machine, does not suffer from the human traits of tiredness. Nor
does it loses concentration even after working continuously for a long time.
§ This characteristic is especially useful for those jobs where same tasks is done again
and again. It can perform long and complex calculations with same speed and accuracy
from the start till the end.
9. Several Storage Capacity
§ The computers have a lot of storage devices which can store a tremendous amount
of data. Data storage is essential function of the computer. Second storage devices
like floppy disk can store a large amount of data permanently.
10. Consistency
§ same output shall be provided as long as same input and program is used
11. No Fee1ing
CMPC 323 INTORDUCTION TO INFORMATION SYSTEM

DEALING WITH DATA STORAGE

Adequate data storage is an important issue in an information system. Controls need to be in place
to ensure safe storage of data. In an EDP audit the auditor is concerned with how many copies of
the data exist and controls that are on use. It is amazingly easy to lose control over electronic data.

Tape management systems (TMS) and Disk Management Systems (DMS) are used to help retain
control over data files. These automated systems can provide label and tracking management. The
following are some of the common types of data storage media.
1. MAGNETIC HARD DISK
These, metal disks mounted inside a sealed disk drive are high speed devices that are
designed for permanent installation. Hard disks are the most common method of online
data storage. By using a special software, you can cluster drives into high availability
storage arrays. An example is RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks)

2. MAGNETIC SOFT DISKS

Magnetic tapes are used for large computers like mainframe computers where large
volume of data is stored for a longer time. In PC also you can use tapes in the form of
cassettes. The cost of storing data in tapes is inexpensive. Tapes consist of magnetic
materials that store data permanently. These include floppy, Zip and Jaz drives. They are
designed with a soft readwrite disk inside a hard shell.

3. MAGNETIC TAPE
Available in reel or cartridge design, most common method of long term data
storage. Examples include DLT (digital linear tape, 3590 cartridge, VHS videos.

4. READ ONLY MEMORY (ROM)

Used to permanently record software programs on integrated circuits (chips). Programming
is accomplished by using specialized equipment to burn or fuse microscopic links inside
the semi-conductor chip. Once programmed the software becomes permanent and
cannot be changed or erased.

5. FLASH MEMORY
A special type of electronically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) which
is used for flash BIOS, video cameras and USB hand held memory sticks. The small size
and high capacity can really be a security concern.

6. OPTICAL DISK
With every new application and software there is greater demand for memory capacity. It
is the necessity to store large volume of data that has led to the development of optical
disk storage medium. Optical disks can be divided into the following categories:
a. Compact Disk/ Read only Memory (CD-ROM)
b. Write once, Read Many (WORM)
CMPC 323 INTORDUCTION TO INFORMATION SYSTEM

c. Erasable Optical Disk

Often called as WMRM ( Write Many , Read Many)

*ACCESSING DATA for WMRM and WORM devices may either be

1. Sequential - All data must be read.
2. Direct — Data may be read directly without reading the others.

HIERARCHY OF MEMORY
STORAGE
Registers - a small amount of storage
available as part of a CPU that is
preloaded for instant access. A, special,
high-speed storage area within the
CPU. All data must be represented in a
register before it can be processed. For
example, if two numbers are to be
multiplied, both numbers must be in
Areas
registers, and the result is also placed
in a register. (The register can contain
the address of a memory location
where data is stored rather than the
actual data itself.)

2. Cache Memory - The speed of CPU is extremely

Permanent high compared to the access time
of main memory.
Storage Therefore the performance of CPU
decreases due to the slow speed of main memory. To decrease the mismatch in operating
speed, a small memory chip is attached between CPU and Main memory whose access
time is very close to the processing speed of CPU. It is called CACHE memory. CACHE
memories are accessed much faster than conventional RAM. It is used to store programs
or data currently being executed or temporary data frequently used by the CPU. So each
memory makes main memory to be faster and larger than it really is. It is also very
expensive to have bigger size of cache memory and its size is normally kept small.

3. Main/Primary Memory (RAM)- internal memory of the computer

• Random Access Memory (RAM): The primary storage is referred to as random access
memory (RAM) because it is possible to randomly select and use any location of the
memory directly store and retrieve data. It takes same time to any address of the
memory as the first address. It is also called read/write memory. The storage of data
CMPC 323 INTORDUCTION TO INFORMATION SYSTEM

and instructions inside the primary storage is temporary. It disappears from RAM as
soon as the power to the computer is switched off. The memories, which lose their
content on failure of power supply , are known as volatile memories .

• Read Only Memory (ROM): There is another memory in computer, which is called
Read Only Memory (ROM). The storage of program and data in the ROM is
permanent. The ROM stores some standard processing programs supplied by the
manufacturers to operate the personal computer. The ROM can only be read by the
CPU but it cannot be changed. The basic input/output program is stored in the ROM
that examines and initializes various equipment attached to the PC when the power
switch is ON. The memories, which do not lose their content on failure of power
supply, are known as non-volatile memories.

4. Auxiliary/Secondary Memory (Hard Disk/CD/DVD/Diskette)

OTHER DEVICES
Universal Serial Bus (USB) - The most widely used hardware interface for attaching
peripherals to a single standardized interface socket and to improve the plug and play
capabilities by allowing hot swapping; that is, by allowing devices to be connected and
disconnected without rebooting the computer or turning off the device.
The most common type of computer port used in today's computers. It can be used
to connect keyboards, mice, game controllers , printers, scanners , digital cameras,
and removable media drives.

2. Radio Frequency Identification Device (RFID)

RFID is a system used to track objects, people, or animals using tags that respond to
radio waves. RFID tags are integrated circuits that include a small antenna. They are
typically small enough that they are not easily noticeable and therefore can be placed on
many types of objects. RFID tags are often used to uniquely identify the object they are
attached to. However, RFID tags don't need to be scanned directly with a laser scanner.
Instead, they can be recorded by simply placing the tag within the range of an RFID radio
transmitter. This makes it possible to quickly scan several items or to locate a specific
product surrounded by many other items. RFID tags have many different uses. Some
examples include:
a. Merchandise tags - These tags are attached to clothing, electronics, and other
products to prevent theft from retail stores. These tags are typically
deactivated at the place of checkout. Tags that have not been deactivated will
sound the alarm system near the store's exit.
b. Inventory management - Products stored in warehouses may be given RFID
tags so they can be located more easily.
CMPC 323 INTORDUCTION TO INFORMATION SYSTEM

c. Airplane luggage - RFID tags may be placed on checked bags so they can be
easily tracked and located.
d. Toll booth passes - E-ZPass and I-Pass receivers may be placed in automobiles,
allowing cars and trucks to pass through toll booths without needing to stop.
This enables drivers to make toll payments automatically.
e. Credit cards - Some credit cards have built-in RFIDs so they can be "waved"
rather than "swiped" near compatible readers. The SpeedPass wand is an
example of an RFID-only payment device.
f. Animal tags - RFID tags can be placed pet collars to make help identify pets if
they are lost. Tags may also be placed on birds and other animals to help track
them for research purposes.

3. Memory card or flash card is an electronic flash memory data storage device used for
storing digital information. They are commonly used in many electronic devices, including
digital cameras, mobile phones, laptop computers, MP3 players and video game consoles.
They are small, re-recordable, and able to retain data without power.

• A USB flash drive is a data storage device that includes flash memory with an integrated
Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface. USB flash drives are typically removable and
rewritable, and physically much smaller than an optical disc.

RISKS

§ Viruses and other malicious software- Users can bring infected documents from
home to their place of employment or take home a business document to their
infected PC, update the document and return the document to a corporate file
server. Flash drives present a vector for computer viruses that is very difficult to
defend against.

Whenever files are transferred between two machines there is a risk that malware
will be transmitted, and USB memory sticks are no exceptions. Some USB memory
sticks include a physical switch that can put the drive in read-only mode. When
transferring files to an untrusted machine, a drive in read-only mode will prevent
any data to be written to the device.

§ Data Theft- Hackers, corporate spies and disgruntled employees steal data and,
in many cases, there are crimes of opportunity. With a flash drive, any
unattended and unlocked PC with a USB port provides an opportunity for
criminal activity. Social engineering is a tool that can give a hacker physical
access to a corporate PC in order to steal data and plant spyware

§ Data and media loss-The portability of USB flash drives opens another door for
crime-the potential for lost data that can fall into the wrong hands. Most of these
CMPC 323 INTORDUCTION TO INFORMATION SYSTEM

devices have little or no security features. If you happen to lose your flash drives
during your morning commute, anyone who picks up the device may be able to
access data on the drive. Corruption of Data- If the drive is improperly unplugged,
then data loss can occur to corruption.

§ Loss of confidentiality
CMPC 323 INTORDUCTION TO INFORMATION SYSTEM

SAP BUSINESS ONE ON CLOUD PLATFORM AND ENTERPRISE

RESOURCE PLANNING (ERP) SYSTEM
At the end of this chapter, students will be able to:
1. Describe the different types of cloud deployment
2. Identify the key features of Cloud Computing
3. Differentiate on premise and on cloud SAP Business One experience
4. Define what is an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) System
5. Enumerate the advantages and challenges in implementing an ERP

Overview
Cloud computing represents a new way to deploy computing technology to give users the ability
to access, work on, share, and store information using the internet. The ideal way to describe
Cloud Computing would be to term it as 'Everything as a Service' (abbreviated as XaaS). The cloud
itself is a complex network of data centers, each composed of thousands of computers working
together that can perform and achieve the functions of a software on a personal or business
computer units by providing users access to a vast number of applications, platforms and services
delivered over the Internet.

Types of Cloud Deployment

PRIVATE CLOUD PUBLIC CLOUD

PRIVATE CLOUD
Private Cloud, also known as Internal Cloud, is a cloud based infrastructure operated exclusively
for a single organization with all data protected behind an internal firewall. This is usually
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physically located at the company's on-site data center or can also be managed and hosted by a
third-party provider.

PUBLIC CLOUD
Public Cloud, also known as External Cloud, is available to the public where data are created and
stored on third-party servers. Service infrastructure belongs to service providers that manage
them and administer pool resources. The need for user companies to buy and maintain their own
hardware is eliminated. It is based on a shared cost model for all the users or in the form of a
licensing policy such as pay per use.

HYBRID CLOUD
Hybrid Cloud encompasses the best features of the above-mentioned cloud computing
deployment models. It allows companies to mix and match the facets of public and private cloud
that best suit their requirements.

Huawei Cloud Platform

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Huawei Cloud is the chosen partner of Fasttrack IT Academy for the deployment of SAP Business
One on Cloud to our university and collegiate partners. Huawei Cloud now distills 30+ years of
accumulated technology, innovation, and expertise in the ICT infrastructure field to offer
customers everything as a service. You can grow your enterprise in the best environment with
stable, secure, and ever-improving Huawei Cloud services and affordable, inclusive Al. It provides
a powerful computing platform and easy-to-use development platform to support Huawei's
fullstack, all-scenario Al strategy.
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By the end of 2019, Huawei Cloud had launched 200+ cloud services and 190+ solutions. News
agencies, social media platforms, law enforcement, automobile manufacturers, gene sequencing
organizations, financial institutions, and a long list of other industry customers are all benefiting
in significant ways from Huawei Cloud. 3,500 applications were added to the Huawei Cloud
marketplace with offerings from more than 10,000 business partners.

Capabilities and User Experience

Key Features of Cloud Computing
The characteristics of Cloud Computing express its significance in the current business market.
It has already been proven that Cloud Computing is a model for enabling universal, convenient
and on-demand network access. Below are the key features of Cloud Computing:

1) Agility — helps in rapid and inexpensive re-provisioning of resources

2) Location Independence— resources can be accessed anywhere (except on limitations set

by company's internal control)

3) Multi-Tenacity — resources are shared amongst a large pool of users

4) Reliability — dependable accessibility of resources and computation

5) Scalability — dynamic provisioning of data helps in avoiding various bottleneck scenarios

6) Ease of Maintenance — users (companies/organizations) have less work in terms of

resource upgrades and management, handled by service providers of cloud computing

Introduction to SAP

SAP (stands for Systems, Applications and Products in data processing) is a European
multinational software corporation founded in 1972, headquartered in Walldorf,
BadenWurttemberg, Germany with regional offices in 180 countries.
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It is founded by five IBM engineers namely Hasso Plattner, Klaus Tschira, Claus Wellenreuther,
Dietmar Hopp and Hans-Werner Hector.

SAP is considered as one of the world's largest business software company:

• Commands 67% share of the Business Software Market
• 12 Million Users. 95,000 Installations in more than 130 countries 1,500
Partners. 25+ Industry Solutions. 60,000 employees

It is the recognized leader in providing collaborative business solutions for all types of industries
and for every major market globally.

Some of SAP users in the Philippines and worldwide:

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SAP Business One

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sponeBusiness
SAP Business One is an ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) Solution. It is arranged into 15
functional modules, automating the major functions in a business organization. This system
prides itself on having the following characteristics:

Integrated
Real-time
Flexible
Easy to use

Benefits
SAP Business One: On Premise vs. On Cloud
Fasttrack IT Academy formerly offers SAP Business One — On premise with our university and
collegiate partners. To be able to provide our partners with the most recent business solution
trends in the industry, we have decided to open the doors on the latest cloud computing
developments, thus offering SAP Business One on Cloud. The following are the differences
between SAP Business on Premise and SAP Business on Cloud:
Measures On Premise On Cloud
Deployment On premise installation of SAP Business One Through the internet
Accounting Localized / Independent Branch Accounting
Accessibility Limited (within the premises of the installation) Remote access through the internet
Data Storage Hardware Cloud Server
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WHAT IS ENTERPRISE RESOURCE PLANNING (ERP)?

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) is business management software that allows an organization
to use a system of integrated applications to manage the business. It aims to serve as a backbone
for your whole business. ERP software integrates all facets of an operation, including product
planning, development, manufacturing processes, sales and marketing.

The leader in ERP market share, and the one that invented the market to an extent, is the German
company SAP AG with its R/3 software. Other big players include PeopleSoft Inc., Oracle Corp.,
Baan Co. NV and J.D. Edwards & Co.

ADVANTAGES AND CHALLENGES OF AN ERP SYSTEM

Implementing ERP Software

Advantages Challenges
Drive standardization Organizational change across the
enterprise impact resulting in greater Perception of
setbacks operational efficiencies Discipline to maximize
Enables greater focus on ERP software investment
strategic activities Different implementation Potential for
rapid approach (solution driven deployment of technology
vs. requirements driven) Shared IT development costs
Simplify IT technical
footprint