Discussion Question: Digital Technology Including New Softwa

Discussion Questiondigital Technology Including New Software Developm

Digital technology, including new software developments, is essential for many organizations to function in the modern world. Although there is a variety of technology available, there does not seem to be an industry standard. Select what you feel are the two most important elements of the seven major components of IT infrastructure and discuss what role each component serves and why it is important. Then look at the components that your fellow students have selected and provide some constructive criticism as to why you might feel that the two component you selected might be a bit more important. Don't be afraid to debate back and forth with your fellow students in a professional way.

Your primary discussion responses each week will use complete sentences, proper grammar and spelling and should be at least 250 words. Please answer the question completely and thoroughly. Refer to the textbook and external sources, being certain to properly include in-text citations and a reference at the end of your primary discussion response. All reference listings should follow APA guidelines. References will be placed at the end of the post and will be single-spaced and not contain any indentation.

Listed below is the book that we are using!!!!!!!!!!! Laudon, K. C., & Laudon, J. P. (2013). Management information systems: Managing the digital firm (13th Ed.). NJ: Pearson. Retrieved from:

Paper For Above instruction

In today's rapidly evolving digital landscape, organizations rely heavily on information technology (IT) infrastructure to support their operations, innovate, and maintain competitive advantage. The seven major components of IT infrastructure outlined by Laudon and Laudon (2013) include hardware, software, data management, networks, facilities, services, and personnel. While all these components are vital, the two I consider most crucial are networks and personnel, owing to their central roles in ensuring connectivity, security, and effective management of technology resources.

Networks serve as the backbone of modern IT infrastructure, facilitating communication, data transfer, and resource sharing across various organizational units. In an era where remote work, cloud computing, and real-time data processing are prevalent, robust and secure networks are indispensable. They enable seamless connectivity both within the organization and with external entities, which is essential for collaborative efficiency and agile decision-making. For example, a reliable network infrastructure ensures that employees can access cloud-based applications and company data remotely, thus enhancing productivity (Laudon & Laudon, 2013). Without efficient networks, digital operations are hampered, leading to potential downtime, data breaches, and operational disruptions.

Personnel, on the other hand, embodies the human element that manages, develops, and safeguards the entire IT ecosystem. Skilled IT personnel are vital for implementing technological solutions, maintaining security, troubleshooting issues, and evolving systems to meet changing organizational needs. The importance of personnel is underscored by the increasing sophistication of cyber threats and the need for strategic planning in IT investments. Without competent staff, even the most advanced hardware and software can become underutilized or vulnerable to attack. Their expertise ensures that the infrastructure functions optimally, policies are enforced, and technology aligns with organizational goals (Laudon & Laudon, 2013).

When comparing these components to others selected by classmates, I believe that while hardware and software are fundamental, they are often standardized, replaceable, or upgrades are readily available. Conversely, networks and personnel are more dynamic and integral; networks provide the connective tissue for all digital activities, and personnel drive innovation, security, and strategic management. Therefore, in an environment marked by digital transformation and cyber risks, I argue that networks and personnel are the most critical components of IT infrastructure that sustain organizational resilience and growth.

References

• Laudon, K. C., & Laudon, J. P. (2013). Management information systems: Managing the digital firm (13th ed.). Pearson.