Below are the possible essay questions for the easy portion of the final exam given on the last day of class.  You will be given a full page to answer each question for your convenience.  I WISH ALL OF YOU GOOD LUCK AND STUDY HARD.  THE WINTER BREAK IS ALMOST HERE!

 

  1. You have been assigned to look at the strategic IT needs of your organization.  Before proceeding with IT planning, you need to perform a business analysis.  For the company assigned (at the final), develop an industry analysis (Porter Model) and a company analysis (Value Chain with IT included) to serve as a basis of the current position of the organization for future planning. (Chapter 1) 

 

  1. As a business manager trying to set up an IT infrastructure for your company, you have to review the selection and procurement of hardware, software, connectivity (network access) and infrastructure management tools. Please write a one page essay on your understanding of these five components explaining what constitutes: Hardware, Software, Network, Database, People (management, users, customers, suppliers) and their role in the total solution. (Chapters 3, 5, 6. 7)  Comprehensive

 

  1. You have been told by the company management that you are considering replacing the current operational systems for each business function/department. Identify the major classes of systems and the functions they support (think application architecture diagram).  Then name and describe the business functions supported by these classes of software. (Chapters 8, 9, 10) Comprehensive

 

  1. You are considering starting your own eCommerce company.  As part of your strategic analysis, you must consider what markets you want to serve with what products.  Name and describe the three common categories of eCommerce (hint B or C2X) and the types of businesses models (ex: retail) and products offered for each. (Chapter 3)

 

  1. You were at a meeting where your lead technical manager suggested that the organization utilize artificial intelligence to support your business.  Describe the three areas of artificial intelligence and give at least one example in each category of how they might be used in business. (Chapter 2)

 

  1. You have been given the responsibility to implement a new information system causing a reorganization of departments and jobs.  Describe the change process by drawing the change curve and identifying each of the steps.  Then describe how the elements of change management (sponsorship, organization, communication, and training) affect the depth and length of the change. (Chapter11)

 

  1. As a result of a strategic planning process, your organization has decided to develop a new custom customer management system.  As manager of the affected department, describe each of the steps in developing a new system, and what role you (manager) and your employees (users) might play in that process. (Chapter 11) 

 

  1. You have been made responsible for the conversion to a new ERP system as cross multiple countries, world-wide.  Name and describe the four conversion approaches you have available to you, and then describe which one you would choose for this implementation and why. (Chapter 11)

 

  1. You have been named project manager for a world-wide implementation of a financial system.  There are three project elements and a fourth that is non-negotiable that you can manipulate through the project’s lifecycle to ensure success.  Describe these elements and the limitations of each. (Chapter 12)  

 

  1. You work for an online retailer.  Security is paramount in the operation of your business, and the privacy of your customers.  Name and describe four common system security threats, and then discuss the five steps in a well thought out information security plan. (Chapter 4).