Chapter 1: Introduction to Computer

1.1 What Is A Computer?

• Is an electronic machine/device, operating under the control of instructions → can
accept data, process the data according to specified rules, produce
results/information, and store the results /information for future use.

Produce
results
Accept Process
a
Store
results

• Data is a collection of unprocessed items, which can include text, numbers, pictures,
audio and video.
• Example: Item code, Item description, Quantity purchased, Supplier’s name,
Address

• Information is processed data - has meaning and is useful. Information represents the
outputs from the system.
• Example: Total amount, inventory availability, receipt, daily sales report

1.2 The Components Of a Computer

• A computer contains many electric, electronic, and mechanical components known as
hardware.
• These components include:
✓ Input devices – Hardware (HW) components that allow you enter data/instruction
into the computer.
✓ Output devices -- HW components that conveys info to one or more people.
✓ System unit -- Box-like case that contains the electronic components of the
computer that are used to process data.
✓ Storage devices -- Device that records (writes) and/or retrieves (reads) items to and
from storage media.
✓ Communication devices -- HW components that enables a computer to send and
receive data, instructions and info. to and from another computer(s)

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1.3 Advantages Of Using Computers

• Speed - Computers can perform billions/trillions of calc/operations per second.

Example: Sorting no, calculating total and sending e-mails.
• Reliability - The electronic components in modern computers are dependable and
reliable because they have low failure rate
• Consistency - Produce consistent result. Given the same input and process, will
produce the same results. This phrase called “garbage in, garbage out”.
• Storage - Computer store huge amounts of data and make this data available for
processing anytime it is needed.
• Communication - Communication is the exchanged of data/info between 2 parties.
When computers are connected to each other they can share data, instructions and
info.
Disadvantages Of Using Computers

• Privacy issues - Nearly every life event is stored in a computer e.g. medical records,
credit records, tax records and etc. Where personal and confidential records were not
protected properly, individuals have found their privacy violated and identities stolen
Prevention: Do not disclose identification numbers, user names, passwords or other
personal security details
• Public safety - Users around the world share publicly photos, music and other personal
info. Some of these unsuspecting, innocent computer users have fallen victim to
crimes committed by dangerous strangers.
Prevention: Do not share information that would allow others (i.e. strangers)
to identify or locate you, etc.
• Impact on labour force - Millions of employees have been replaced by computers.
• Impact of environment - Computer wastes are polluting the environment. When
computers are discarded in landfills, they release toxic materials.
• Health risks - Prolonged / improper computer use can lead to injuries/disorders of
the hands, wrists, neck, back and eyes. Repetitive strain injury: pain to arms, elbows,
fingers and wrists due to repetitive motion of typing and sitting in fixed position
Prevention: Proper workplace design, good sitting/standing posture and take regular
break.

1.4 Categories of Computers

• Personal Computer → can perform input, processing, output, and storage activities.
Personal computer contains a processor, memory, and one or more input, output,
and storage devices.
• 2 types of PC: Desktop computers and Notebook computers
o Mobile Computers:
➢ Notebook Computer/Laptop
• It is portable, personal computer designed to fit on your lap.

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 • Size is thin and lightweight, yet they can be as powerful as the average
desktop computer.
➢ Tablets PCs
• Smaller than a laptop but larger than a phone.
• It is thin, lighter-weight mobile computer that has a touch screen.
o Mobile Devices:
➢ Smart Phone
• It is an Internet-capable phone that usually also includes a calendar, an
address book, a calculator, a notepad, games, and several other apps.
➢ Digital Cameras
• It is a device that allows users to take pictures and store the photographed
images digitally.
➢ Portable media player is a mobile device on which you can store, organize,
and play digital media. For example: Listen to music, Watch video, movie, and
television shows View photos
➢ Digital media player is a device, typically used in a home, that streams digital
media from a computer or network to a television, projector, or some other
entertainment device.
➢ E-Book Reader
• Handheld device that is used primarily for reading e-books.
➢ Wearable Devices
• A wearable device or wearable is a small, mobile computing consumer
device. These devices often communicate with a mobile device or computer.
Wearable devices include activity trackers, smartwatches, and smart glasses.
• Game Consoles → Mobile computing device designed for single player or multiplayer
video games. Gamers often connect the game console to a television so that they can
view their gameplay on the television’s screen
• Servers → A server is a computer dedicated to providing one or more services to
other computers or devices on a network.
o More powerful and larger than a PC.
o Can supports from 2 to several thousand connected computers and devices
at the same time and provides centralized storage for programs, data and
information.
• Mainframes → Large, powerful, expensive computer, it can handle hundreds /
thousands of users simultaneously and able to store huge amount of programs, data
and information.
o Enterprises use mainframes to bill millions of customers, prepare payroll for
thousands of employees, and manage millions of items in inventory
• Supercomputer → Fastest, most powerful and most expensive computer; Used for
applications requiring complex mathematical calculations.
o For example, large-scale simulations and applications in medicine, aerospace,
automotive design, online banking, weather forecasting, nuclear energy
research, and petroleum exploration use a supercomputer

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 • Embedded Computers →A component in a larger product.
o Household appliances – washing machines, microwave ovens, dishwashers
o Automobiles - anti-lock braking systems, in-vehicle entertainment systems,
air-conditioner controls
• A terminal is a computer, usually with limited processing power, that enables users
to send data to and/or receive information from a server, or host computer.
o The host computer processes the data and then, if necessary, sends
information (output) back to the terminal.
o Special-purpose terminals perform specific tasks and contain features uniquely
designed for use in a particular industry.
o Three widely used special-purpose terminals are point-of-sale (POS) terminals,
ATMs, and self-service kiosks.

1.5 Computer Applications in Society

• Education
• Finance
• Health Care
• Government
• Science
• Publishing
• Travel
• Manufacturing

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CHAPTER 2: COMPUTER HARDWARE

2.1 What is input?

 Input is any data and instructions entered into the memory of a program.

Data Instructions

•A collection of unprocessed items, •Instructions can be in the form of

including text, numbers, images, software (programs and apps),
audio, and video commands, and user responses.

What is input device?

 Any hardware components  allow you to enter data or instruction into a computer.

Keyboard - It is an input device  contains keys you press to enter data and instructions into a
computer or mobile device.

Pointing Devices - Enable you to select text, graphics, and other objects, such as buttons, icons,
links, and menu commands.

 Mouse - is a pointing device  fits under the palm of your hand comfortably.
 Touchpad - is a small, flat, rectangular pointing device  is sensitive to pressure and
motion.
 Trackball - is a stationary pointing device with a ball on its top or side.

Touch Screens - is a touch-sensitive display. Touch screens are convenient because they do not
require a separate device for input.

Pen Input - With pen input, you touch a stylus or digital pen on a flat surface to write, draw, or
make selections

Motion, Voice, and Video Input

 Motion Input - sometimes called gesture recognition, users can guide on-screen elements
using air gestures by moving your body or a handheld input device through the air.
 Voice and Audio Input
Voice input is the process of entering input by speaking into a microphone.
Audio input is the process of entering speech, music, and sound effects into the computer.
 Video Input
Video input is the on storage medium, such as a hard disk or process of capturing full-
motion images and storing them optical disc.
o A webcam enables users to capture video and still images. Webcams are usually
attaching to the top of a desktop monitor.
o A videoconference is a meeting between two or more geographically separated
people who use a network or the Internet to transmit audio and video.

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 Game Controllers/Devices - With a game console or computer video game, players direct
movements and actions of on-screen objects via a controller, voice, or air gestures.

Scanners and Reading Devices - Input devices save users time by capturing data directly from a
source document, which is the original form of the data.

 Optical Scanners - Usually called a scanner, is a light-sensing input device  reads printed
text and graphics and then translates the results into a form the computer can process.
 Optical Readers - A device that uses a light source to read characters, marks, and codes
and then converts them into digital data that a computer can process.
o Optical character recognition (OCR) - OCR devices include a small optical scanner
for reading characters and sophisticated software to analyze what is read. E.g.
Turnaround document – water bill, phone bill……
o Optical mark recognition (OMR) - OMR devices read hand-drawn marks, such as
small circles or rectangles. A person places these marks on a form, such as a test,
survey, or questionnaire answer sheet.
 Bar Code Readers - Also called a bar code scanner, uses laser beams to read bar codes.
 A QR code (quick response code) is known as a 2-D bar code because it stores information
in both a vertical and horizontal direction. Information stored such as web address,
contacts or phone numbers.
 RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) Readers - is a technology  uses radio signals to
communicate with a tag placed in or attached to an object, an animal, or a person.
 Magstripe Readers - Short for magnetic stripe card reader, reads the magnetic stripe on
the back of credit cards, entertainment cards, bank cards, identification cards, and other
similar cards.
 Magnetic-Ink Character Recognition Reader (MICR) - Read text printed with magnetized
ink. An MICR reader converts MICR characters into a form the computer can process. The
banking industry almost exclusively uses MICR for check processing.
 Data Collection Devices - Obtains data directly at the location where the transaction or
event takes place. For example, factories and retail stores use data collection devices to
take inventory and order products.

2.2 What is Output?

 Output is data that has been processed into a useful form. Four basic types of output: text,
graphics, audio, and video.

What is output device?

 Any hardware components  convey information to one or more people.

Display Devices/Monitor - visually convey text, graphics, and video information. Information on
a display exists electronically and appears for a temporary period is often called soft copy.

Printer - produces text and graphics on a physical medium such as paper. Printed information
(hard copy) exists physically and is more permanent form of output than presented on a display
(soft copy).

 Ink-jet printer, laser printer, thermal printer and etc.

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 Speakers - to generate higher-quality sounds for playing games, interacting with multimedia
presentations, listening to music, and viewing movies.

Headphones and Earbuds - Headphones cover or are placed outside of the ear, whereas earbuds
rest inside the ear canal.

Data Projectors/Projectors - Projects the text and images on a larger screen so that an audience
can see the image clearly.

Interactive Whiteboards - Touch-sensitive device, resembling a dry-erase board, that displays the
image on a connected computer screen, usually via a projector.

2.3 Secondary Storage

 What is storage?
Storage holds the data, instruction, and information permanently for future use.

 What is storage medium?

It is the physical material on which a computer keeps data, instructions, and information. E.g.
Floppy disk, hard disks, CDs and DVDs

 What is storage device?

It is the computer hardware that records/retrieves items to and from storage media. E.g. Floppy
disk drive, CD-ROM drive

Hard drive - also known as hard disk drive or hard drive. Is a device that store data, instructions
and information magnetically.

SSD (solid-state drive) is a flash memory storage device that contains its own processor to manage
its storage. Advantages of using SSD: Faster access times, Faster transfer rates, Lighter weight,
Less power consumption (leads to longer battery life), Less heat generation

Memory Card - Removable flash memory storage device  insert in and remove from a slot in a
computer, mobile device, or card reader/writer.

USB Flash Drive - Also known as thumb drive, is a flash memory storage device  plugs in a USB
port on a computer. Convenient for mobile users because they are small and lightweight

Cloud Storage - An Internet service  provides storage to computer or mobile device users. Cloud
storage providers offer online access to hardware for storing files, and web and mobile apps to
access, back up, and manage files.

Optical Discs - It is a type of storage media that consists of a flat, round, portable disc made of
metal, plastic and lacquer that is written and read by a laser. E.g., CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, CD-R, CD-
RW

Magnetic Tape - Magnetically coated ribbon capable of storing large amount of data at low cost.
Tape no longer is used as a primary method of storage. Instead, businesses use tape library most
often for long term storage and backup.

Smart Cards - Similar size as ATM card, store data on an integrated circuit embedded in the card.
Smart cards contain a processor and have input, process, output, and storage capabilities.

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Chapter 3: Computer Software

3.1 Overview of software

• Software (program) is a series of instructions that tells a computer what tasks to perform
and how to perform them
• 2 types of software: System software and Application Software

Software

System Application
Software Software

Operatin Utility Productivity

Form of Software
Applications
g System Program

Types of
OS Graphics and Retail software
utility Multimedia
Functions
Program
Custom software
Form of software

Web app
Personal Interest

Mobile app

Mobile web app

Communication

Shareware

Freeware
Security Tool

Open source software

File, Disk and Public domain software

System
Management

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3.2 Application software

• An application, or app sometimes called application software, consists of programs
designed to make users more productive and/or assist with personal tasks.
• Application software is available in a variety of forms:
• Retail software
o It is mass produced, copyrighted retail software that meets the needs of a wide
variety of users, not just a single user or company.
o Is copyrighted and sold to a wide variety of users.

• Custom software
o Is developed specially for a particular user organization; solely on the
requirements of the company concerned.
o Design to meet the needs of a specific business or industry.
o performs functions specific to a business or industry.
o costs expensive than retail software

• Web App
o Application stored on a web server that you access through a browser.
o Some can be accessed locally offline.
o Some free, some charge one time fee, while others charge monthly or yearly.

• Mobile App
o You download from a mobile device’s app store or other location on the
Internet to a smart phone or mobile device.

• Mobile Web App

o A web app → is optimized for display in a browser on a mobile device,
regardless of screen size or orientation.
o Many app developers opt for web delivery because they DO NOT have to
create a different version for each mobile device’s app store.
o Many web apps use a responsive design, which means the app displays
properly on any computer or device.

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• Shareware
o Copyrighted software →distributed at no cost for a trial period,
o A scaled-down version of the software is distributed free, and payment
entitles the user to the fully functional product.
o To use a shareware program beyond that period, you send payment to the
program developer.

• Freeware (software has no charge)

o Copyrighted software provided at no cost by an individual or a company that
retains all rights to the software

• Open Source software

o Software freely available to anyone in a form that can be modified
o The software has no restrictions from the copyright holder regarding
modification of the software’s internal instructions and its redistribution.
o This software can download from the Internet, often at NO cost.

• Public Domain Software

o Not protected by copyright laws and can be freely copied and used
o The software has been donated for public use.
o Anyone can copy or distribute to others at no cost charge.

3.2.1 Categories of Programs and Apps

A. Productivity Applications
• Software that assists people in becoming more effective and efficient while
performing daily activities at work, school, and home.
• Examples: Word processing software, spreadsheet software, database software…

B. Graphics and Multimedia Software

• Software that allows power users, such as engineers, architects, desktop publisher,
graphic artists, to work with graphics and multimedia project.
• Examples: Computer-Aided Design (CAD), Desktop Publishing, Photo Editing…

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C. Personal Interest Applications

• Lifestyle application - Access latest news or sports scores, check weather forecasting
• Medical applications - Track exercise activity, count calories
• Entertainment Applications - Listen to music, radio, play games
• Convenience applications - Obtain driving direction, use phone as a flashlight
• Education applications - Run a simulation, assist children with reading

D. Communications Applications
• Communications is the process of sharing/exchanging info between 2 or more
computers.
• Example: Web browser, instant messaging, Email…

E. Security Tool
• To protect computers and mobile devices
• Security tools include personal firewalls, antivirus programs, malware removers, and
Internet filters.
• Personal Firewall - Detects and protects a personal computer and its data from
unauthorized intrusions
• Antivirus Programs - Protects a computer against viruses by identifying and removing
any computer viruses found in a memory, storage media or on incoming files.
• Malware removers –
✓ Spyware is a program placed on a computer or mobile device without the
user’s knowledge that secretly collects information about the user.
✓ Spyware can enter your computer when you install a new program, through a
graphic on a webpage or in an email message, or through malware.
 Spyware remover – detects and deletes spyware
✓ Adware is a type of program → displays an online advertisement in a banner
or pop-up or pop-under window on webpages, email messages, or other
Internet services.
 Adware remover – detects and deletes adware, and other malware

• Internet Filters – Examples: Anti-spam programs, web filter, phishing filter and pop-
up and pop-under blockers.

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F. File, Disk, and System Management Tools

• To perform maintenance type tasks related to managing a computer, its devices, or
its programs, you can use one or more file, disk and system management tools.

3.3. System software

• Programs that control or maintain the operations of the computer and its devices and it
enable the application software to run.
• 2 types of system software
o Operating System
o Utility Program

3.3.1 OPERATING SYSTEM

• Programs that coordinate all the activities among computer’s hardware components

3.3.2 Operating Systems Functions

A. Starting and Shutting down Computers and Mobile devices
o Starting or restarting a computer is called booting.
o Cold boot – turning on a computer →has been powered off
o Warm boot - restarting a computer → is already powered on

B. Providing user interface

o A user interface controls how you enter data and instructions and how information is
displayed on the screen.
o Graphical user interface (GUI) - Users can interact with menus, icons, buttons and other
graphical objects to issue commands.
o Command-based user interface (Command Line Interface)- Users tell the computer
what to do by typing commands at the C:\> prompt.

C. Managing Programs
o The OS also controls HOW MANY PROGRAMS a user can run at any one time.
o An operating system can be single tasking or multitasking.
▪ A single tasking OS allows only one program or app to run at a time.
▪ A multitasking OS allows two or more programs or apps to reside in memory
at the same time.

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D. Managing Memory
o The purpose of memory management is to optimize the use of RAM.
▪ Virtual memory - OS allocates a portion of the storage medium (hard disk),
to functions as additional RAM
(If you are working on multiple programs simultaneously, it is possible to run
out of memory (RAM))

E. networking capability
o Allows computers in a network to send and receive data and share computing
resources.

F. Administering Security
o Protection against unauthorized access →Logins and passwords

G. Coordinating Tasks
o The OS determines the order in which tasks are processed.

3.4 UTILITY PROGRAMS

• Utility programs, also known as Utility, is a type of system software that allows a user to
perform maintenance-type of tasks, usually related to managing a computer, its device,
or its programs.

A. Image Viewer
o Users can see images without having to open them in a paint or image editing
program.

B. Disk Defragmenter
o Is a utility → reorganizes the files and unused space on a computer’s hard disk so that
the OS can access data more quickly and programs run faster.
o Fragmentation slows down disk access and the performance of the entire computer.
o Defragmenting the disk, or reorganizing it so the files are stored in contiguous sectors,
solves this problem.

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C. Disk Cleanup
o A disk cleanup tool searches for and removes unnecessary files.
o Unnecessary files may include downloaded program files, temporary Internet files,
deleted files, and unused program files. Operating systems usually include a disk
cleanup tool.

D. File Compression
o A file compression tool shrinks the size of a file(s). A compressed file takes up less
storage space than the original file.
o Compressing files frees up room on the storage media.

E. Backup and Restore

o A backup tool allows users to copy, or back up, selected files or the contents of an
entire storage medium to another storage location, such as another hard drive, optical
disc, USB flash drive, or cloud storage.
o Restore tool reverses the process and returns backed up files to their original form.

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Chapter 4: Information Systems In An Organization

4.1 What is an Information System?
 An information system comprises of a group of interrelated components working
together to process raw data into useful information.
 A set of interrelated components that collect (input), manipulate (process), store, and
disseminate (output) data and information for specific purpose.
 These components may include hardware, software, databases, procedures,
telecommunications, and people.
 Purpose: to process the raw data into information this is useful to assist users in making
decisions and to manage operations in an organisation.
 Example of IS: Automated Teller Machine (ATM), Ticket Reservation System, Point of
Sales (POS) system and etc.

Components of Information system:

1. Hardware: Consists of computer equipment used to perform input, processing, and
output activities. Example: Processor, monitor, keyboard, mouse, touch screen,
printer and etc.
2. Software: Consists of the computer programs that govern the operation of the
computer. Example: Accounting software, Payroll software, Sales and Marketing
software and etc.
3. Database: Organized collection of facts and information, typically consisting of two or
more related data files. Example: Company databaseCustomer file, Supplier file,
Product File, Sales File, Employee File and etc…
4. People: Who-manage, run (use), program (build) &maintain IS. Example: IT personnel,
Technician, System Support
Users are people who use information system to get information. Example: Cashier,
Clerk, Manager, CEO and more
5. Procedure: Procedures contain sets of instructions that will tell the human part how
to use and run the system. E.g. operation manual
 A set of instructions about how to combine the hardware, software, network
and people components in order to process data and generate the desired
information.
6. Networks and telecommunications: Network is a connecting system (wire line or
wireless) that permits different computers to share resources
 Internet - World’s largest computer network, consisting of thousands of
interconnected networks, all freely exchanging information. Example: large

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restaurant chains can use computer network to link hundreds of restaurant to

corporate headquarters to speed credit card authorization and report sales
and payroll data

4.2 Level of user in the enterprise

 In an enterprise, users typically fall into one of four categories:

Level of user Responsibilities Decision-making Job Title
Executive  long-range direction strategic decisions  CEO,
management /  oversees middle  Involve setting President,
Top Management management organization policies, Vice
 Responsible for goals, and long-term President
strategic decisions plans
that centre on the
company’s overall
goals and objectives
Middle  implementing the tactical decisions Sales
management strategic decision  Short-range decision  manager,
 oversees apply specific plans Marketing
operational necessary to meet the manager
management stated objectives.

Operational/Lower  Supervises the operational decisions Supervisor,

management production, clerical  involves day-to-day officer, stock
and other non- activities within the manager,
management company project
employees  decisions should be manager
consistent with and
support the tactical
decisions
Non-management  frequently need production,
employees information to clerical, and
perform their jobs other
personnel

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4.3 General Type of Information System

 Transaction processing system (TPS)

Function Input Output User

 A system that processes and  Transaction  Processed  Non-management

records day to day business data such as transaction employees &
transactions. A transaction quantity of data such as  Lower/operational
is a individual business product being invoice and management
activity. E.g.: payment sold. delivery order.
transaction, order  E.g. Product ID,  detail report
transaction. Product Name, contains
 Company create a TPS by Order No, specific
computerizing an existing Customer name information
manual system for faster etc. bb about routine
processing, reduced clerical activities
costs and improved
customer service

 Management information system (MIS)

Function Input Output User

 A system summarizes,  Internal data  Different types  Lower/operational

compares data, and Processed of report and management
generates timely and transaction data responses to  middle
accurate information for from TPS such as queries management
low and middle Invoice.  summary and
management to monitor  Output of TPS exception
and control the internal becomes the report
operations of an input to the MIS.  E.g.: monthly
organization.  External data sales summary
 Helps managers understand  -Data is captured report,
the day-to-day operations from customers,
of the company such as suppliers,
weekly sales, daily competitors,
production, monthly and stockholders
operating expenses, etc whose.
 Allows the manager to
query the database

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 Decision Support System (DSS)

Function Input Output User

 A system  solves problems  Internal data  results of  Middle

by analyzing data from comes from an analysis on management
database and providing the organization's own screen and in  Top/Executive
results of the analysis. files, (MIS and TPS). printed management
 -Help top management reports
predict what will happen  External sources  reports
with different decisions. data might include typically are
 Example: information on summary,
 ->Management might want interest rates, exception
to know the effect on population trends, reports, drill –
company profits if sales customers income, down reports
increase by 10 % and costs competitors prices,
go up by 5 %. material price ,
 ->what would happen if unemployment
company lowered or raised rate, fuel rate
the price of product?
 This type of information
sometimes called the what-if
analysis, and it needs a DSS
to support.

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 Executive support system (ESS)

Function Input Output User

 A system used to   Internal data comes  Reports are  Top/Executive

summarizes , analyzes & from an not scheduled management
presents information to organization's own but produced
executive decision makers files, (MIS and TPS). on demand
in a useful, friendly &  External sources basis.
customized format data might include
 It combines the features & information on
capabilities of both MISs interest rates,
(summarizing data)and population trends,
DSSs (analyzing), but with customers income,
more flexibility and better competitors prices,
support for strategic material price ,
decision making which unemployment
ensures that the company rate, fuel rate
will survive & grow in the  (same as DSS)
future.

Types of Information System Function Users

Transaction Processing A system that processes and  Non-management
System (TPS) records day to day business employees &
transactions  Operational/Lower
management

Management Information A system summarizes,  Operational/Lower

System (MIS) compares data, and management
generates timely and  Middle management
accurate information
(Generate different types of
report and response to
query)
Decision Support Systems A system  solves problems  Middle management
(DSS) by analyzing data from  Executive/Top
database and providing the management
results of the analysis.

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Help top management

predict what will happen
with different decisions
Executive support system A system used to   Executive/Top
(ESS) summarizes , analyzes & management
presents information to
executive decision makers in
a useful, friendly &
customized format

It combines the features &

capabilities of both MISs
(summarizing data)and DSSs
(analyzing), but with more
flexibility and better support
for strategic decision making

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4. 4 IS By Functional Areas

 Information systems may also be differentiated by functional areas.

 Major organisational functions, such as sales and marketing, manufacturing, finance,
accounting, and human resources, are each served by their own information systems.

Functional unit /Department Example of Information System

Finance and accounting Managers use accounting and financial system
 forecast revenue and business activity.
 determine the best sources and uses of fund
 It can gather financial data from various departments
and generate valuable financial reports such as cash flow
statements, budgets, trial balance sheets, and quarterly
financial statements.

Sales and marketing Sales and marketing information system

 develop new product and service
 determine the best location for production and distribution
facility set product prices to get the highest total revenues
Manufacturing Manufacturing information system
 develop production schedule
 control inventory level/product quality
 design and manufacture products
Human resource management Human resource information system
 manage the recruiting process
 monitor employee productivity and analyzes employee
performance on the job
 keeps track of employee skills

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4.5 Enterprise Information system

 It is a big system which has many modules (e.g.: many TPSs such as accounting, purchasing,
inventory, sales systems).
 E.g.: Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)
 Features:
o Has many modules.
o Has been purposely designed and developed to be integrated.
o Has a single central DATABASE to be shared by various business processes and
departments in an organization.
 There are 3 types of enterprise systems:
o Customer Relationship Management (CRM)
 CRM systems are designed as an integrated software consisting of modules
that perform all aspects of business activities that involves customers.
 The integrated software modules of the software cover marketing, sales and
customer service.
 The goal of CRM is to understand and anticipate the needs of current and
potential customers to increase customer retention and loyalty while
optimizing the way that products and services are sold.

o Supply Chain Management (SCM)

 Supply Chain Management (SCM) embraces all the business processes from
the received of a customer order to the delivery of that order to the
customer.
 Supply chain management (SCM) is to plan, organize, and optimize the
various activities performed along the supply chain.
 Purposes: the purpose of integration is to deliver the product more rapidly
to the customer at lower costs by streamlining their business processes for
SCM.

o Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)

 Enterprise resource planning (ERP) is a set of integrated programs that
manage a company’s vital business operations for an entire multisite, global
organization.
 The core of the ERP system is a database that is shared by all users so that all
business functions have access to current and consistent data for operational
decision making and planning.

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4.6 System Development

• System development is a set of activities used to build an information system.

• This collection of phases is called the system development life cycle (SDLC).
• SDLC contain five phases:
– System Planning
– System Analysis
– System Design
– System Implementation
– System Support and Security

Planning Phase
• The planning phase for a project begins when the steering committee receives a project
request.
• During the planning phase, four major activities are performed:
(1) review and approve the project requests,
(2) prioritize the project requests,
(3) allocate resources, such as money, people, and equipment to approved projects,
(4) form a project development team for each approved project.

Analysis Phase
• The analysis phase consists of two major activities:
(1) conduct a preliminary investigation
(2) perform detailed analysis.

Preliminary Investigation
• The main purpose of the preliminary investigation is to determine the exact nature
of the problem or improvement and decide whether it is worth pursuing.
• Upon completion of the preliminary investigation, the systems analyst writes the
feasibility report.

Detail Analysis
• Detailed analysis involves three major activities:
(1) study how the current system works,
(2) determine the users’ wants, needs, and requirements,
(3) recommend a solution.
• Systems analysts use diagrams such as DFD to describe the processes  transform
inputs into outputs and diagrams that graphically show the flow of data in the
system.

Data Flow Diagram (DFD)

• DFD graphically show the movement and transformation of data in the
information system.

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Entity-Relationship Diagram (ERD)

• An ERD is a graphical model  depicts the relationships and interactions
among system entities.
Design Phase
• The design phase consists of two major activities:
(1) if necessary, acquire hardware and software
(2) develop all of the details of the new or modified information system.

• The systems analyst may skip this activity if the approved solution does not require new
hardware or software.
• If this activity is required, it consists of four major tasks:
(1) identify technical specifications,
(2) solicit vendor proposals,
(3) test and evaluate vendor proposals,
(4) make a decision

Implementation Phase
• The purpose of the implementation phase is to construct, or build, the new or modified
system and then deliver it to the users.
• Members of the system development team perform four major activities in this phase:
(1) develop programs and apps,
(2) install and test the new system,
(3) train users,
(4) convert to the new system.

Support and Security Phase

• The purpose of the support and security phase is to provide ongoing assistance for an
information system and its users after the system is implemented.
• The support and security phase consists of three major activities:
(1) perform maintenance activities,
(2) monitor system performance,
(3) assess system security.

• Information system maintenance activities include fixing errors in, as well as improving, a
system’s operations.
• The systems analyst monitors performance of the new or modified information system is to
determine whether the system is inefficient or unstable at any point.

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Project Management
• Project management is the process of planning, scheduling, and then controlling the
activities during system development.
• The goal of project management is to deliver an acceptable system to the user in an
agreed-upon time frame, while maintaining costs.
• Project leaders can use project management software to assist them in planning,
scheduling, and controlling development projects.
• Popular tools used to plan and schedule the time relationships among project activities
are Gantt charts and PERT charts.

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Chapter 5: Computer Networks and Internet

5.1 Computer Networks

• A computer network is a collection of computers and devices connected together
using various communication devices and transmission media.

Reasons / Benefits to use a computer network

• Facilitating communication
– People can communicate efficiently and easily via email, instant
messaging, chat rooms, blogs, and etc.
• Sharing hardware
– Each computer on the network has access to hardware on the network,
save money.
– For example, each computer and mobile device user can access a printer
on the network, as they need it. Thus, home and business users create
networks to save money on hardware expenses.
• Sharing data and information
– Any authorized computer user can access data and information stored on
other computer on the network, e.g. Database.
• Sharing software
– Each computer on the network has access to software on the network.
– E.g. To support multiple users’ software access, vendors often sell versions
of their software designed to run on a network or as a web app on the
Internet. These network and Internet subscription versions usually cost
less than buying individual copies of the software for each computer.

• Transferring funds ---Called electronic funds transfer (EFT)

– Allows users connected to a network to transfer money from one bank
account to another via transmission media.
– Examples include wire transfers, use of credit cards and debit cards, direct
deposit of funds into bank accounts, online banking, and online bill
payment.

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5. 2 Network Types
• Networks are classified according to the size of the coverage area

Personal Area Network (PAN)

• Network  connects computers and devices in an individual’s workspace
using wired and wireless technology
• Devices include smartphones, digital cameras, printers, and more.

Local Area Networks

 LAN is a network  connects computers and devices in a limited geographical
area, such as a home, school, office building.
 A wireless LAN (WLAN) is a LAN that uses no physical wires.

Metropolitan Area Networks

 MAN is a high-speed network  connects local area networks in a
metropolitan area, such as a city or town, and handles the bulk of
communications activity across that region.

Wide Area Networks

 A network  covers a large geographic area (such as a city, country, or the
world) using a variety of wired and wireless transmission media
 WAN can be one large network or can consist of multiple LANs connected
together.
 Internet is the world’s largest computer network/ the world’s largest WAN.

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5.3 The Intranets, Extranets and Internet

Intranet

 It is an internal network of computers belonging to the same organisation.

 Provide authorised employees restricted access to an organisation’s private
data.
 Intranets generally make company information accessible to employees and
facilitate collaboration within an organization.

Extranets

 An Extranet is formed by connecting an organisation’s Intranet directly with

other partners’ Internets (E.g. suppliers, customers, partners).
 Enables organisations to have direct interaction with suppliers, customers and
partners for the purpose of conducting e-business or e-commerce.

Internet

 A worldwide collection of computer networks  connects millions of

businesses, government agencies, educational institutions, and individuals.

 The World Wide Web (or the web, for short) is a global library of information
available to anyone connected to the Internet.
 The web consists of a worldwide collection of electronic documents called a
webpage.

 Webpage contain text, graphics, audio, video, and hyperlink.A link, short for
hyperlink, is a built-in connection to other documents, graphics, audio files,
videos, webpages, or websites

 A website is a collection of related webpages, which are stored on a web server.

 A web server is a computer  delivers requested webpages to your computer or

mobile device.

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 A browser/web browser is software  enables users with an Internet connection

to access and view webpages on a computer or mobile device. Example: Internet
Explorer, Firefox, Safari, and Google Chrome.

4.3 Services of Internet

 Search engine is software  finds websites, webpages, images, videos, news,
maps, and other information related to a specific topic

 Email is the transmission of messages and files via a computer network. Example:
Gmail, Yahoo mail

 Instant Messaging - Occur in real-time, are communications services  notify you

when one or more of your established contacts are online and then allows you to
exchange messages or files or join a private chat room with them. Example:
Facebook messenger

 Chat Room - is a real-time typed conversation takes place on a computer or

mobile device with many other online users.

 An online discussion, or discussion forum, is an online area in which users have

written discussions about a particular subject

 Online social network, or social networking site, is a website  encourages

members in its online community to share their interests, ideas, stories, photos,
music, and videos with other registered users. Example: Facebook, Twitter,
Instagram

 An informational and research website contains factual information. Examples

include libraries, encyclopaedias, dictionaries, directories, guides, and other types
of reference.

 Media Sharing - Enables members to manage and share media such as photos,
videos, and music. These websites are sometimes called photo sharing sites, video
sharing sites, and music sharing sites, respectively

 News, weather, sports, and other mass media websites contain newsworthy
material, including stories and articles relating to current events, life, money,
politics, weather, and sports.

 Wikis and Collaboration - Type of collaborative website  allows users to create,

add, modify, or delete the website content via a browser. Wikis can include
articles, documents, photos, or videos.
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5.5 Overview of E-Commerce

• E-Commerce is the ability to conduct business electronically over the internet.

• E-Commerce consists of buying and selling goods and services over an electronic
system such as the Internet and other computer networks.
• Basically, there are four models which describes almost all transactions with
consumers to business or with business to consumers. They are,
1. B2B (Business to Business)
• One company doing business with another company.
• When the products or goods sold from one business to another business.
• For example, suppliers with manufacturers, manufacturers with distributors,
and distributors with retailers.
2. B2C (Business to Consumer)
• The customer directly interacts with business organization through a website.
• A website following the B2C business model sells its products directly to a
customer. A customer can view the products shown on the website. The
customer can choose a product and order the same.
• The website will then send a notification to the business organization via
email and the organization will dispatch the product/goods to the customer
3. C2C (Consumer to Consumer)
• In C2C model, business transaction takes place between one consumer to
another consumer.
• Customer may opt to buy the product of the first customer by viewing the
post/advertisement on the website.
• E.g. www.ebay.com
4. C2G (Citizen to Government)
• C2G business model encompasses electronic transactions online between the
individuals and the public administration.
• The C2G model helps the consumers to post their queries and request
information regarding public sectors directly from their local
governments/authorities.
• For example: when you taxes through the government website.

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