A Department Store Plans To Upgrade Its IT Infrastructure

A department store plans to upgrade its IT infrastructure to support a

A department store plans to upgrade its IT infrastructure to support a new order-processing application with rich features. The store currently uses eight stand-alone computers when customers check out. The specifications of these computers are: Quad core processors, minimum of one terabyte hard drives, minimum of 5 GB RAM, and operating systems including Windows XP, Linux, or Mac OSX. The management wants to upgrade four of these computers to process client orders, ensuring they can handle tasks such as running a multiprocessing operating system, taking orders over the Internet, processing orders, creating invoices, communicating via email, and storing customer data locally for marketing purposes. The task involves selecting appropriate equipment from online vendors for these upgrades and preparing a comprehensive report.

Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

The modernization of IT infrastructure is critical for retail stores aiming to enhance operational efficiency and customer service. This report evaluates the necessary equipment and strategies to upgrade four stand-alone computers in a department store to support a new, feature-rich order-processing application. The upgrade focuses on ensuring these computers can handle multiprocessing, Internet communication, data storage, and customer relationship management effectively.

Current Computer Specifications and Upgrade Requirements

The existing computers operate on outdated hardware and software platforms, which may hinder the deployment of advanced order-processing applications. They are equipped with quad-core processors but are running Windows XP, Linux, or Mac OSX, which may not provide optimal support for modern, resource-intensive applications. The need for hardware upgrades such as memory, storage, and compatibility with a newer operating system is essential to meet the store’s operational objectives.

The requirement specifies that up to date, high-performance specifications are necessary to support multiprocessing and Internet connectivity, as well as to facilitate local data storage. Therefore, the upgrade should include a robust processor, additional RAM, expanded storage capacity, and compatible operating systems that support the application’s needs.

Hardware Selection for Upgrades

Considering the store’s specifications and functional requirements, the following hardware components are recommended:

  • Processors: Modern multi-core processors such as Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 are suitable due to their balance of performance and cost-efficiency. These processors support multiprocessing effectively, allowing the application to process multiple customer orders simultaneously without lag (Intel, 2022; AMD, 2023).
  • Memory (RAM): A minimum of 8 GB RAM is advised, doubling the current 5 GB, to facilitate smooth operation of order-processing and email communication applications. Higher RAM capacity enhances multi-tasking and reduces system latency (Kingston, 2021).
  • Storage: Upgrading to at least 1 TB solid-state drives (SSD) will provide faster data access and ample space for customer data, invoices, and promotional material. SSDs are preferred over traditional HDDs for their speed and durability (Crucial, 2022).
  • Operating Systems: Upgrading to Windows 10 Professional or a compatible Linux distribution such as Ubuntu 22.04 LTS ensures compatibility with current software applications and improved security features (Microsoft, 2023; Ubuntu, 2022).

Selection of Online Vendors

Reliable online vendors for hardware components include Amazon, Newegg, Dell, and Lenovo. These vendors provide certified parts, warranties, and customer support. For example:

  • Amazon offers a wide variety of processors, RAM, SSDs, and pre-built systems (Amazon, 2023).
  • Newegg specializes in computer hardware and upgrades, offering detailed specifications and customer reviews (Newegg, 2023).
  • Dell and Lenovo provide pre-configured desktops with customizable specifications, suitable for enterprise-grade upgrades (Dell, 2023; Lenovo, 2023).

Implementation Plan

The implementation involves ordering selected hardware components, installing and configuring the operating systems, and testing for compatibility and performance. It is recommended to:

  1. Backup existing data.
  2. Install hardware components following manufacturer guidelines.
  3. Perform clean OS installation and system updates.
  4. Verify connectivity and application performance.
  5. Train staff on new hardware and software features.

Conclusion

Upgrading the department store’s computers with current hardware and software ensures improved support for the new order-processing application. This upgrade will facilitate faster processing, effective communication, and enhanced customer data management, ultimately leading to better operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.

References

  • AMD. (2023). Ryzen 5 Processors. AMD Official Website. https://www.amd.com/en/products/ryzen-processors
  • Amazon. (2023). Computer Hardware & Components. https://www.amazon.com
  • Crucial. (2022). Solid State Drives. Crucial. https://www.crucial.com/ssd
  • Dell. (2023). Desktops & Workstations. Dell Official Site. https://www.dell.com
  • Intel. (2022). Intel Core i5 Processors. Intel Official Website. https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/products/processors/core/i5-processors.html
  • Kingston. (2021). RAM Upgrades. Kingston Technology. https://www.kingston.com
  • Lenovo. (2023). Desktop Computers. Lenovo Official Site. https://www.lenovo.com
  • Microsoft. (2023). Windows 10. Microsoft. https://www.microsoft.com/software-download/windows10
  • Newegg. (2023). Computer Components & Upgrades. https://www.newegg.com
  • Ubuntu. (2022). Ubuntu 22.04 LTS. Ubuntu Official Site. https://ubuntu.com

Related Assignments