Module 6 Flashcards
3 aspects universal to all forms of IT communication
- Synchronicity
- Persistence/ recordability
- Anonymity
Components of information systems
Input > Processing > Output ->
^—– Feedback
Feedback mechanism necessary to
Continually improve the input and processing functions of info system
Information attributes
- Confidentiality
- Integrity (complete and accurate)
- Availability
Input
Entry of data into a system via keyboard, scan or uploading file. Can be done at time of transaction or later eg batch. Done near system or remotely. Involves element of validation.
Processing
Act of system performing some type of action on the data eg calculation, aggregation or manipulation
Output
Information provided after processing the data transactions. Any type of information required by business process.
Input devices examples (4)
- Smartphone
- Keyboard
- Mouse
- Card reader
Processing units
Perform operations on the data. Central processing unit = CPU.
Output devices examples (3)
- Screens
- Printers
- Files
Storage devices examples (4)
- Cloud storage
- Storage area network (SAN)
- Network attached storage (NAS)
- Bits
Network =
Two or more computers connected together. LAN (local area network), WAN (wide area network), the internet
Computer software
Enables a computer to perform specific tasks eg operating systems, communication systems, security software, utility software
Program development (3)
- Typically developed in separate development environment
- Undergo extensive testing
- Controls must exist for migration to avoid mistakes
Program development controls (3)
- Design controls
- Version controls
- Storage controls
Design controls
Waterfall approach > requires each stage to be finished before next can be started
Version controls
Required to ensure programmers do not adversely affect each other’s work eg only one person works on specific code at a time
Storage controls
Controls over soft and hard copy data storage and retrieval through data management systems
General application software
Used to record data and convert it into information for a user
Protocols and standards
Rules in place for writing software - allow greater interoperability or interactions between systems
Protocols and standards examples (4)
- HTML
- HTTP
- URL
- XBRL
Modelling performed at three levels
- Conceptual
- Logical
- Physical
Conceptual modelling
Shows entities that are important to organisation
Logical modelling
Describes tables and columns to be used in system
Physical modelling
Describes the storage of data and technical details
Database management systems (DBMSs)
Software designed for purpose of managing databases
Organisations much manage (2) of database documentation
- Storage
- Administration
IT organisation in sizeable business has four major functions
- Strategy and policy
- Operations (maintenance)
- Projects (systems development)
- Support (user assistance)
