A computer is a programmable machine. It accepts information in the form of digitized data and manipulates it for some result based on a program or sequence of instructions on how the data is to be processed. It consists of at least one processing element, typically a central processing unit (CPU) and some form of memory. The processing element carries out arithmetic and logic operations, and a sequencing and control unit that can change the order of operations based on stored information. Computers are also categorized on the basis of physical structures and the purpose of their use. Based on Capacity, speed and reliability they can be divided following categories of computers: 1. Microcomputer Systems Microcomputers are the most important category of computer systems for end users. Though usually called a personal computer, or PC, a microcomputer is much more than a small computer for use by an individual. The Continue reading
Information Systems Basics
Types of Software’s Used in Business
Software Trends Several major software trends. First, there has been a major trend away from custom-designed programs developed by the professional programmers of an organization. Instead, the trends is toward the use of off-the-shelf software packages acquired by end users from software vendors. This trend dramatically in creased with the development of relatively inexpensive and easy-to-use application software packages and multipurpose software suites for microcomputers. The trend has accelerated recently, as software packages are designed with networking capabilities and collaboration features that optimize their usefulness for end users and work grounds on the Internet and corporate intranets and extranets. Second, there has been a steady trend away from (1) technical, machine-specific programming language using binary-based or symbolic codes, or (2) procedural languages, which use brief statements and mathematical expressions to specify the sequence of instructions a computer must perform. Instead, the trend is toward the use of a Continue reading
Proxy and Reverse Proxy Servers
Proxy Server Proxy server is a computer system or application which works as an intermediary for clients searching resources which exist on other servers. It allows different users to access the internet at the same time on a single Internet connection. It aims to improve the speed of surfing the internet and reducing network traffic. It receives requests from a web user such as a web page or a file available on a different server, then it evaluates at responds to the request. It simplifies this process and controls it. A proxy server is also part of a firewall and helps to prevent hackers from using the internet in order to not let them gain access to computers on a private network. The main features of a proxy server are: Caching: This happens when a user requests for a file. The proxy first browses its cache and forwards it if Continue reading
Role of a Systems Analyst in Organizations
Who is Systems Analyst? A systems analyst is a person who conducts a study, identifies activities and objectives and determines a procedure to achieve the objectives. Designing and implementing systems to suit organizational needs are the functions of the systems analyst He plays a major role in seeing business benefit from computer technology. The analyst is a person with unique skills. He uses these skills to coordinate the efforts of different type of persons in an organisation to achieve business goals. What a Systems Analyst does? A system analyst carries out the following job: The First and perhaps most difficult task of systems analyst is problem definition. Business problems are quite difficult to define. It is also true that problems cannot be solved until they are precisely and clearly defined. Initially a systems analyst does not know how to solve a specific problem. He must consult with managers, users and Continue reading
Consumers and Technology
Consumers is someone who buys and uses products and services. Consumers also known as customers, clients, regulars, patrons and trade. Consumers have their own demand. Consumer demand led to higher imports of manufactured good. Good services must be giving to the consumer. Seller must give good services to the consumers. Bestseller need to know what is good for consumers. In this case, seller have to make an easy way to make sure the consumers do not have any problem to buy and use product and services. Currently, technology is common to everybody. Every people know how to use a technology. Design of gadgets is increase in consumers tastes. Consumer tastes also increase in a multiplication and choice in media channels and content. Technology providers are looking for innovative ways to understand consumers. Technology providers need to know their needs, preferences, tastes and desires and how these will shape the future Continue reading
Decision Support Systems (DSS) – Meaning, Types, and Components
Decision Support Systems (DSS) help executives make better decisions by using historical and current data from internal Information Systems and external sources. By combining massive amounts of data with sophisticated analytical models and tools, and by making the system easy to use, they provide a much better source of information to use in the decision-making process. Decision Support Systems (DSS) are a class of computerized information systems that support decision-making activities. DSS are interactive computer-based systems and subsystems intended to help decision makers use communications technologies, data, documents, knowledge and/or models to successfully complete decision process tasks. While many people think of decision support systems as a specialized part of a business, most companies have actually integrated this system into their day to day operating activities. For instance, many companies constantly download and analyze sales data, budget sheets and forecasts and they update their strategy once they analyze and evaluate Continue reading