Introduction to information systems T. Cornford, M. Shaikh is1 060 2013

4.8 Test your knowledge and understanding
1. Describe what is meant by the phrase ‘the database approach’? What 
benefits should an organisation get from adopting such an approach? 
What problems or specific issues do you foresee if a database approach 
is combined with a distributed approach (for example, a distributed 
database)?
2. Conduct a survey of the various types of input and output devices used 
in shops, stores and businesses where you live. Include the devices used 
to monitor stock and capture sales of goods as well as those used to 
capture the means of payment. Can you find any local examples of the 
use of RFID tags? (If you do not know what RFID tags are research the 
topic in Laudon and Laudon (2013) Chapter 7 and online). What kinds 
of changes to how businesses operate or the jobs people do might result 
from widespread use of RFID tags?

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Chapter 4: Contemporary trends in information and communication technologies
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3. Based on your own online research, prepare a brief report for the 
senior management of a medium sized chain of department stores on 
the potential benefits and challenges of moving a substantial share of 
the company’s data processing and data storage to a cloud provider, 
and scaling down dramatically the company’s in-house data processing 
facilities and staff.
4. In Laudon and Laudon (2013) Chapter 5 they differentiate the ‘Cloud 
and Mobile era’ and the ‘Enterprise internet era’. Explain what each of 
these exemplifies in terms of specific technologies, what they are used 
for, and the social, business or work-place situations they are embedded 
in. 
5. ‘New types of Information and Communication Technology will often 
drive really substantial and necessary change in how business or 
governments operate. For this reason information systems professionals 
need to know a lot about technology and keep abreast of new trends, 
while managers and executives need to work hard to keep their 
businesses on the leading edge of technology innovation. Employees 
and workers too have a responsibility to accept technology and 
willingly adapt to these changes – the world does not stand still.’
Critically assess the ideas in this quotation; do you agree fully, fully 
disagree, or do you have reservations or nuances to add? In answering 
this question use modern and relevant examples to illustrate your 
points.

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Notes
IS1060 Introduction to information systems
66