[WATCH]: The Communicators: Phil Bond, Information Technology Assn.
Posted on November 22, 2010
Phil Bond, Information Technology Assn. of America, President & CEO, talks about the Democratic majority’s impact on the information technology industry. He is joined by guest reporter Jill Aitoro, NextGov, Senior Reporter.
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[WATCH]: Module 12: Supply Chains and Information Technology
Posted on November 22, 2010
Part 12 of 12 Modern day supply chains are tasked with responding at lightning speed. Like our central nervous system helps us make good decisions, perform physical feats, and communicate effectively and efficiently with those around us, information technology is required to help our supply chains efficiently perform at peak levels. This module illustrates how our uses of technology mirror those of the supply chains use of modern information technology systems. This is the 12th installment in Arizona State University’s twelve-part introduction to supply chain management video series developed by Eddie Davila, Jeff Hough, Randy Cates, Dawn Feldman, Dan Ichikawa, Ian Schmoel, and Matt Hardy. ASU, the WP Carey School of Business, and the Supply Chain Management Department are proud and happy to share this video series with supply chain management departments, supply chain instructors, career specialists in high schools and universities, as well as industry leaders in an effort to inspire a new generation of supply chain management professionals across the country and around the world. For more information, visit WP Carey’s SCM Web site at wpcarey.asu.edu or send an e-mail to wpcarey.scm@asu.edu.
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[WATCH]: JALISCO INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY INSTITUTE
Posted on November 22, 2010
VIDEO PROMOCIONAL; Software Park Ciudad Guzmán: Software Development and Integrated IT & BPO Outsourcing. As a key, strategic element in Jalisco’s project to consolidate its leadership in the global high tech market, the Software Park in Ciudad Guzman, was created in order to position the State as the preferred destination for integrated service providers of Information Technology (IT) and Business Processes Outsourcing (BPO). Just an hour and a half from Guadalajara, Ciudad Guzman has quickly become a true business development center, thanks to the great talent and professionalism shown by its people and the attractive quality of life it offers. Leaded by the IJALTI, with the support of the Local, State and Federal Governments, the new center offers world-class facilities to any local, national or international company offering IT and BPO services, interested in establishing its operations in a place with the necessary conditions to successfully develop any business project. In its first phase, the Software Park offers an 8600 sq ft area, for a total capacity of 120 people. The next phase, which should be concluded in 2008, will add 25800 sq ft to reach a total of 500 employees.
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A Guide On Information Technology
Posted on November 22, 2010
Information Technology department consisted of a single Computer Operator, who might be storing data on magnetic tape, and then putting it in a box down in the basement somewhere. The history of information technology is fascinating. Information technology is driven by the demands of the new, competitive business environment on the one hand and profound changes in the nature of computers in the other. Information Technology systems come in the shape of many technologically advanced devices which help deliver important information to managers who in turn, use this information to make crucial decision regarding the operations of their organization.
Information Technology can come in the form of computers, robots, sensors, and decision support systems. The newest form of Information Technology which is being implemented on the market today is the use of handhelds to aid managers and subordinates in their day to day operations. Information Technology Auditing (IT auditing) began as Electronic Data Process (EDP) Auditing and developed largely as a result of the rise in technology in accounting systems, the need for IT control and the impact of computers on the ability to perform attestation services.
Information technology (IT) is revolutionizing how business operates. Advanced information technology is becoming the single-most powerful force shaping the structure and functioning of work organizations, plants, offices, and executive suites. When people hear the words “Information Technology,” the first thing that comes to their mind are computers and the Internet. It may also bring up words like “network,” “intranet,” “server,” “firewall,” “security,” as well as more arcane expressions such as “router,” “T-1,” “Ethernet,” or the mysterious and exotic-sounding “VoIP.” the term “information technology” is not new and has not always referred to things relating to computer. Information technology is as old as the brain itself, if you think of the brain as an information processor. As far as IT being a science, even that goes back as far as the earliest attempts to communicate and store information. And that is essentially what information technology is: the communication and storage of information, along with the ability to process and make use of the information stored.
Information technology is the use of computers and software to manage information. In some companies, this is referred to as Management Information Services (or MIS) or simply as Information Services (or IS). The information technology department of a large company would be responsible for storing information, protecting information, processing the information, transmitting the information as necessary, and later retrieving information as necessary. The benefits resulting from Information Technology benefits were in many different forms such as allowing all firms to accomplish tasks they had been doing before at reduced costs, it opened up possibilities to do things never attempted before, also allowed firms to “re-engineer” parts of their companies and make better strategic positions.
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Information technology is the use of computers and software to manage information. In some companies, this is referred to as Management Information Services (or MIS) or simply as Information Services (or IS).
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Information Technology Careers
Posted on November 22, 2010
Information technology has been defined by the Information Technology Association of America, or the ITAA as being the study, design, development, implementation support and/or management of any computer based information systems. Information technology training for IT managers and systems analysts may seem superfluous – these folks are usually well-learned in their areas of expertise.
Now the organization has to have an Information Technology Landscape plan, based on its current and future business landscape. Information Technology department consisted of a single Computer Operator, who might be storing data on magnetic tape, and then putting it in a box down in the basement somewhere.In fact, information technology is all of these things, and more.It’s hardly new, however. Information technology is as old as the brain itself, if you think of the brain as an information processor.
As frightening as this task is, the best way to be successful is to be humble. Senior executives must accept the fact that full investigation of the features and functionality of clinical information technology.One of the early steps that many organizations take is to hire an information technology consultant. Boston-area businesses benefit from using a consultant to perform a review of the business’s information technology currently being utilized.
The study of computer information science has become widespread to meet the demand for information technicians, and there are many online information technology schools in operation around the US and Canada. The degree centers on problem-solving skills and methods needed to provide computer-based and web-based IT solutions in our world ecommerce based economy. The millennium Development Goals are the world’s answer and targets for addressing extreme poverty in various dimensions; such as income poverty; lack of adequate shelter, hunger; and disease among others.
If you are looking for that great career, or if you are looking for a career change then you should really consider looking at information technology jobs. Information technologies (IT) are quickly becoming an integral part of our community. Technology can mean many different things to people. In a broad sense, technology encompasses a process. Information Technology management jobs exist at many levels within an organization. In a large organization, you could serve as an IT manager in just one portion of an IT department (network, help desk, or application development manager, etc).
It needs to be mentioned here that it wasn’t too long ago when the departments dealing with information technology were composed of one computer operator. The profession of information technology focuses on computer processes. Proper training teaches students how to manage all the aspects of information in conjunction with technology. With the help of IT more work can be done by individuals, businesses, services and government organisations. Function enhancement programs such as word processors.
The world is very much dependent on information technology because this is where businesses can get all of their information to customers or other consumers. One of the trends that is being put to use right now is semiconductor technology. This is where microchips are being used to transmit information quickly. Computers are at the center of information technology. Information is what computers process, transmit and store.
Education is available at every level including the option to complete a certificate program. Students are taught to work with a businesses technological component to ensure accessibility and security. Mostly businesses today create data that can be stored and processed on computers. In some cases the data must be input to computers using devices such as keyboards and scanners.
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Information Technology and the Business Communities: A Case Study of Small-scale Business Enterprises in Nigeria
Posted on November 22, 2010
Introduction
Due to globalization of the economy, emergency of information technology, growth of the Internet and other communication network, growing diversity of business transactions and increased competition, companies are changing the way they communicate with new processes that sharpen business performance. The Internet is becoming the foundation for new business models, process and new ways of knowledge distribution (Laudon K.C and J.P. Laudon, 2000).
Small-scale enterprises now use the Internet and networking technology to conduct more of their work electronically, reliable linking factories, offices and sales forces around the globe (Dave C. 2000). This communication evolution is governed by applied infrastructures with converged services and integrated application (Lucas H.C and B. Jack, 1994). The convergence of information technology is an important trend influencing both current and future markets, industry and technology (James, A.O, 2004). Companies such as the shops, banks and institution interviewed, are extending these networks to suppliers, customers and other groups outside the organization to enable them respond instantly to customer demands and market shifts.
Undoubtedly, information technology is bringing about changes in organization that make firms even more dependent than in the past when it depends solely on the knowledge, learning and decision making of individual employees. Besides, customer service, operation, products and marketing strategies, and distribution are heavily dependent on information technology (Brain K and C. Stacey, 2001).
This research work examines the impact of information technology on the economics of small-scale business enterprises. This is to ascertain the level at which information technology has transformed business processes for specific and applications; efficient business management, crime rate reduction, job creation and improved security of information systems. This will help make available the right kind of information at the right time place for optimum utilization of available resources to enhance the quality of life in the human society.
Material and Method: In the study, a statistical approach was adopted. Responses from the various business/institutions; shops, factories, eatery, markets, banks, fuel station, bakery, schools, cyber cafe, hospital, poultry, boutique, salon, phone call centers, guest houses and sport centers via the questionnaire in some selected cities in Nigeria for over 11 months in 2008 were technically examined and conclusion drawn in line with the hypothesis formulated.
Theoretical Background
The discipline of information theory came into focus with Claude E. Shannon’s classical paper, “A mathematical theory of communication” in 1948. This theory deals with the amount of information and does not handle the meaning of information. Similarly, the theory failed to provide necessary help in the design of an information system. As a result, the initial interest on information theory declined. However, the discipline starts to gain widespread acceptance only in the last few years. This is attributed to the fact that information technology now provides the support necessary to build an information system that serves best for some specific and application (David M.K, 1992).
Information technology, as defined by the Information Technology Association of America (ITAA), is the study, design, development, implementation, support or management of computer based information systems, particularly software applications and computer hardware. Basically, information technology deals with the use of electronic computers and computer software to convert, store, protect, process, transmit and securely retrieve information. Examples of information technology include; personal digital assistant, personal computers, telephones, televisions etc (Brain K.C and C.S. Stacey, 2001).
Today, the terms information technology has ballooned to encompass many aspects of computing and technology, and the term is more recognizable than ever before. The end objective is to make the effective and efficient use of information to resolve uncertainly and enhance productivity at each level; individual, society and government (Charlse W.L.H, 2001). On this theoretical background is the hypothesis formulated.
Hypothesis: Two types of hypothesis were formulated in this study; Null hypothesis (Ho) and Alternatively hypothesis (H1).
Null Hypothesis: Information Technology does not have positive impact on small-scale business enterprise.
Alternatively hypothesis: Information technology has positive impact on small-scale business enterprises.
Decision Rule: When the observed chi-square (X2) is greater than the critical chi-square (X2) from tables of chi-square, Hi is accepted and Ho is rejected and vice versa. This decision is similar to (Salami A and A.O. Usman, 2008).
Data Analysis and Interpretation of Results
The data from this research were analyzed and results interpreted in line with the research questions;
Research Question 1: Does the Introduction of Information Technology have impact on small-scale business enterprises?
Table 1: Impact of Information Technology on Business Growth and Income Flow
S/N
ITEMS
Strongly
Agree
Agree
Disagree
Strongly
Disagree
Row
Total
1.
Information technology has improved the standard of small-scale business enterprise
120
(73)
92
(72)
28
(48)
16
(62)
256
2.
Every unit of a business has benefited from Information Technology
70
(55)
80
(53)
17
(36)
23
(46)
190
3.
Information Technology is of no positive Impact to small-scale business enterprises
12
(80)
15
(79)
103
(53)
150
(68)
280
4.
Information Technology has attracted more customers to all business enterprises
65
(42)
67
(41)
10
(28)
5
(36)
147
5.
Information Technology is meant for larger scale business enterprises and not for small-scale business enterprises.
20
(36)
27
(36)
30
(24)
50
(31)
127
Column Total
287
281
188
244
1000
*Observed X2 = 463.3, critical X2 = 21.026, µ =0.05, df =12.
From Table 1, the expected frequencies in brackets are calculated using the formula (Egbule J.F and D.O. Okobia, 2007).
E = Row total x column total ————————– (1)
Grand Total
Where, E = expected Frequency and Grand Total = 1000
ROW I
For observed frequency = 126, using equation (1);
For observed frequency = 92,
For observed frequency = 28,
For observed frequency = 16,
ROW II
For observed frequency = 70,
For observed frequency = 80,
For observed frequency = 17,
For observed frequency = 23,
ROW III
For observed frequency = 12,
For observed frequency = 15,
For observed frequency = 103,
For observed frequency = 150,
ROW IV
For observed frequency = 65,
For observed frequency = 67,
For observed frequency = 10,
For observed frequency = 5,
ROW V
For observed frequency = 20,
For observed frequency = 27,
For observed frequency = 30,
For observed frequency = 50,
Applying the chi-square (X2) statistic as presented in (Omorogiuwa, 2006);
……………………………..(2)
Where, O = observed frequency and
E = expected frequency
By substituting into equation (2) above;
The degree of freedom is given by
df = (r-1) (c –1) …………………………….(3)
Where, r = Number of Rows and
c = Number of Columns
From table 1, r = 5, and c = 4. \ df = (5-1) (4-1) = 12
Critical value of chi-square X2 = 21.026 (from tables) at a testing value µ = 0.05
These results shows that the observed chi-square X2=463.2 (from calculation), is greater than the critical value of chi-square X2=21.026 (from tables), at a testing value of µ =0.05 and degree of freedom df = 12. This indicates a significant relationship and it implies that information technology has a positive impact on business growth and generally increases income flow.
Research Question 2: Does the introduction of Information Technology in small-scale
business enterprises provide more job opportunities for
unemployed Nigerians?
Table 2: Job opportunities using Information Technology
S/N
ITEMS
Strongly
Agree
Agree
Disagree
Strongly
Disagree
Row
Total
1.
Information technology has provided a source of income to many young school leavers
201
(149)
152
(119)
35
(78)
29
(77)
417
2.
Information Technology provide holidays jobs for many students
116
(107)
101
(86)
39
(52)
44
(56)
300
3.
Drastic Reduction of mass unemployment since the application of Information technology in business.
40
(101)
33
(81)
98
(49)
112
(52)
283
Column Total
357
286
172
185
1000
*Observed chi-square X2 = 273.6, critical X2=12.592, df = 6, µ = 0.05.
The results of table 2, show that Null hypothesis (Ho) is rejected and alternatively hypothesis (Hi) is accepted. The observed value of chi-square X2 equal 273.6 (from calculation not shown for convenience), is greater than the critical value of chi-square X2 = 12.592 (from tables), at a degree of freedom df = 6, using a testing value µ= 0.05. This indicates a significant relationship implying that the introduction of information technology in business provides more job vacancies for unemployed Nigerians.
Research Question 3: Of what relative impact is the introduction of Information
Technology in efficient business management?
Table 3: Information Technology in efficient business management
S/N
ITEMS
Strongly
Agree
Agree
Disagree
Strongly
Disagree
Row
Total
1.
Information technology enhance proper planning and execution of business strategies
102
(90)
96
(92)
17
(28)
30
(35)
245
2.
Information technology helps to improve on the skills of business-men
90
(71)
90
(72)
6
(22)
7
(28)
193
3.
Business-men are now more time conscious with the advent of information technology
78
(74)
87
(75)
15
(23)
21
(29)
201
4.
Information Technology discourages unwarranted journey.
97
(132)
102
(135)
76
(41)
86
(52)
361
Column Total
367
375
114
144
1000
*Observed chi-square X2 = 120.4, critical X2 = 16.919, df = 9, µ = 0.05
The results show that the null hypothesis (Ho) is rejected while the alternatively hypothesis (H1) is accepted. The observed chi-square X2 = 120.4 is greater than the critical value of chi-square X2 = 16.919 [from tables], at a degree of freedom df = 9, using a testing value of µ = 0.05. This indicates a significant relationship, which implies that the introduction of information technology helps in efficient business management.
Research Question 4: Has the introduction of information technology reduced the rate of
Fraudulent activities in business?
Table 4: Information technology to fight business fraud
S/N
ITEMS
Strongly
Agree
Agree
Disagree
Strongly
Disagree
Row
Total
1.
Information technology is a weapon for combating fraudulent activities in business
76
(58)
90
(54)
18
(42)
25
(55)
209
2.
Information technology encourages dishonesty in business
39
(78)
45
(72)
17
(57)
112
(75)
283
3.
Only the rich can effectively utilize information technology to fight crime
25
(66)
32
(61)
86
(49)
97
(64)
240
4.
The use of information technology assist in reporting fraudsters to law enforcement agencies
136
(74)
89
(69)
12
(54)
31
(71)
268
Column Total
276
256
203
265
1000
*Observed chi-square X2 = 320.5, critical chi-square X2 =16.919. df = 9; µ = 0.05
The results show that alternatively hypothesis (H1) is accepted and the Null hypothesis is rejected. The observed chi-square (x2=320.5) is greater than the critical value of chi-square (x2 = 16.919 from tables) at a degree of freedom df = 16 using µ = 0.05. This indicates a significant relationship, which implies that information technology has reduced the rate of fraudulent activities in business.
Discussion
The findings of this study provide useful answers to the research questions. On the impact of information technology resources on business growth, general income flow and job creation, results of the study show that a majority of small-scale enterprises have immensely benefited in these areas. It was obvious that some of the respondents engage in retailing of GSM materials and other information technology resources, alongside their goods and services. This invariably, contributes to business growth, general flow of income and provision of jobs for the unemployed.
On the impact of information technology on business and efficient time management, some respondents generally agreed as seen in Tables 1 to 4 using the alternative hypothesis method that it was positive. However, it was discovered that inspite of the use of information technology for business promotions, most business men still lack efficiency in service delivery. This may be attributed to poor business skills or inadequate background. It is therefore not surprising that positive changes in business management are still not achieved. However, it could be hoped that modern information technology will help to sharpen the sense of business and time management skills.
Conclusion and Recommendation
In conclusion, information technology has improved small-scale business enterprises in Nigeria. In order to consolidate on the present level of achievement of information technology in business, much more improvement must be welcomed. These include; improvement in the level of information technology services rendered to business enterprises, wide coverage (especially in the rural areas), reduction in tariff and better connectivity.
In line with the research findings, it is recommended that information technology service providers should intensify effort to make maximum use of the high penetration by business enterprises. This invariably, will help to enlighten the populace on the benefits attached to the applications of information technology.
The tariff of all the service providers is too high. Consequently, this reduces the number of users that go online for Internet marketing. In order to reverse this trend, it is recommended that the charge deducted by the service providers should be reduced to encourage more small-scale business enterprises in Nigeria.
References
Brain K. W and Stacey C. S (2001): Using Information Technology: A practical Introduction to computers and communications, 4th Edition, Mc Graw-Hill Companies Inc, New York, USA. Pp 78-94.
Charlse W.L.H (2001): Global Business, 2nd Edition; McGraw Hill Companies, New York. Pp 100-132
Dave C etal, (2000): Internet Marketing strategy, Implementation and practice, pearson Education Limited, England.
David M. K (1992); Management Information Systems, 2nd Edition, Mc Grow Hill companies inc, USA.
Egbule J.F and Okobia D.O (2007): Research methods in Education for Colleges and Universities, Kmensuo Educational Publishers, Agbor. Chapter 3.
James A. O.B (2004): Management Information Systems: Managing Information technology in the Business enterprises, 6th Edition, McGraw Hill Companies Inc, New York USA. Chapter 5 & 6.
Laudon K.C and. Laudon J.P (2000): Management Information Systems: Organization and Technology in the Networked enterprises, 6th Edition Prentice – Hall, Inc, USA.
Lucas H. C and Jack B (1994): “The role of Information Technology in organization design”. Journal of management information systems 10. No. 4. pp 56-89.
Omorogiuwa O.K. (2006): Research and Applied statistics for the behavioural sciences: An introduction. Mindex Publishing Company Limited; Benin City. Pp 43-48
Salami A.O. and Usman O.A. (2008): The socio-economic impacts of global system for mobile communication (GSM) a university students, Journal of Economic Theory 2 (2): 63 – 70.
francis Anyasi -
About the Author:
Anyasi I. F and Imoize A. L
Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Ambrose Alli University,
PMB 14, Ekpoma, Edo State, Nigeria.
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information technology: IT's hidden face: Everything you always wanted to know about Information Technology. A look behind the scenes
Posted on November 22, 2010
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An experienced Banking-CIO reveals the world of Information Technology in a company. There’s a Grand-Canyon-sized gap between the expectations of computer users and what an IT department can effectively do. And this gap creates many victims-on both s
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information technology: Health Information Management Technology: An Applied Approach, Second Edition with Workbook
Posted on November 22, 2010
Health Information Management Technology: An Applied Approach, Second Edition with Workbook
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Editor Merida L. Johns, PhD, RHIA, and her distinguished colleagues have updated and revised the health information management technology concepts from their first edition, the most widely used textbook in health information management technology pro
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information technology: Information Technology Project Management (with Microsoft Project 2007 CD-ROM) (6th ed)
Posted on November 22, 2010
Information Technology Project Management (with Microsoft Project 2007 CD-ROM) (6th ed)
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Information is traveling faster and being shared by more individuals than ever before. Information Technology Project Management, Sixth Edition offers the “behind-the-scene” aspect of technology. Although project management has been an established fi
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[WATCH]: US Navy Information Technology
Posted on November 22, 2010
Meet Marie and Angelena. They currently work in the Information Technology field of the US Navy. Thanks to the extensive training the Navy has provided Marie and Angelena, their experience has led them around the world as part of a diverse group, working with the latest cutting-edge technology.
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