It Is Important To Understand What Information Systems Are ✓ Solved

It is important to understand what information systems are

It is important to understand what information systems are and why they are essential for running and managing a business. It is also crucial to understand the different systems that support various groups or levels of management. Additionally, digital technology and the Internet play a key role in executing major business processes in the enterprise. Furthermore, it is essential to comprehend the ethical, social, and political issues raised by information systems. The case studies below provide an opportunity to critically analyze events taking place in real-life businesses.

You will review each case study and provide a thorough analysis that demonstrates critical thinking and application of the concepts presented in Units I and II. In Chapter 1 of your eTextbook, read the case study "UPS Competes Globally with Information Technology," and write an analysis that addresses the following: How does UPS use information systems technology to achieve its strategic goals of being more efficient and customer-oriented? What would happen if the automated package tracking system was not available? Discuss how globalization has "flattened" the world.

In Chapter 2 of your eTextbook, read the case study "The City of Mississauga Goes Digital" and write an analysis that addresses the following: Describe the problems the City of Mississauga hoped to address using digital technology. What technologies did Mississauga employ for a solution? Describe each of these technologies and the role each played in a solution. What management, organization, and technology issues did the City of Mississauga have to address in developing a solution? How did the technologies in this case improve operations and decision making at the City of Mississauga?

In Chapter 3 of your eTextbook, read the case study “Shipping Wars” and write an analysis that addresses the following: Why is shipping so important for e-commerce? Explain your answer. Compare the shipping strategies of Amazon, FedEx, and UPS? How are they related to each company’s business model? Will FedEx succeed in its push into ground shipping? Why, or why not?

In Chapter 4 of your eTextbook, read the case study “Your Smartphone: Big Brother's Best Friend” and write an analysis that addresses the following: Describe how new technology trends may cause ethical dilemmas. Discuss at least one ethical, social, and political issue raised by embedded cyber connections in smart devices. Discuss how big data analytics are being applied to all of the data generated by smart vehicles and other smart devices. Submit all four case analyses in a single paper.

When constructing your paper, do not use the question-and-answer format; instead, present a thorough and insightful analysis using strong arguments and evidence as you apply course concepts. Your final submission must be an APA formatted paper of at least four pages in length (not counting the title and reference pages). You are required to use a minimum of two peer-reviewed, academic sources that are no more than 5 years old (one may be your eTextbook) in each of the four analyses. All sources used, including the eTextbook, must have citations and references properly formatted in APA style.

Paper For Above Instructions

This paper analyzes four distinct case studies from a business management perspective, focusing on the role that information systems play in modern organizational structures. The case studies include "UPS Competes Globally with Information Technology," "The City of Mississauga Goes Digital," "Shipping Wars," and "Your Smartphone: Big Brother's Best Friend." Each analysis addresses the core competencies of information technology, management challenges, and ethical considerations surrounding information systems.

UPS Competes Globally with Information Technology

UPS has strategically leveraged information systems technology to enhance its operational efficiency and customer orientation. One of the pivotal technologies that UPS utilizes is its automated package tracking system, which provides real-time updates on the status and location of shipments. This system cultivates transparency and trust between UPS and its customers. Without this automated tracking system, customers would face increased uncertainty and anxiety over the status of their packages. The absence of such a system would likely lead to a decline in customer satisfaction, as clients would lack the critical updates necessary for informed decision-making regarding their shipments.

Moreover, globalization has facilitated a "flattened" world, as technology allows businesses like UPS to connect with markets across the globe. The rise of e-commerce has seen UPS adopt strategies that align with international standards, allowing it to compete effectively on a global scale. By leveraging information systems, the company can streamline its logistics operations, optimize delivery routes, and enhance its service offerings, ensuring a competitive edge in the marketplace.

The City of Mississauga Goes Digital

The City of Mississauga aimed to address various challenges related to outdated operational systems and inefficient citizen engagement processes through the adoption of digital technology. The technologies employed included Geographic Information Systems (GIS), online citizen portals, and automated service delivery systems. GIS technology enabled the city to visualize data concerning urban planning, while online portals advanced citizen interactions by providing easy access to services and information.

Management and organizational issues included resistance to change among employees, the need for training to effectively use new technologies, and the integration of these technologies with existing systems. The use of these technologies dramatically improved operations and decision-making processes, leading to faster response times and increased citizen satisfaction, ultimately reflecting a shift towards a more responsive governance model.

Shipping Wars

Shipping is a cornerstone of e-commerce, as it directly impacts customer satisfaction and service levels. With companies like Amazon, FedEx, and UPS, each has fundamentally different business models that shape their shipping strategies. For instance, Amazon's logistics network aims for rapid delivery to enhance customer satisfaction, while FedEx utilizes strategic partnerships to optimize distribution. UPS balances its ground and air shipping methods to remain competitive as well.

FedEx's push into ground shipping reflects its recognition of shifting market demands. It aims to diversify its services and compete more aggressively in e-commerce fulfillment. However, success will depend on their operational efficiencies and investment in infrastructure. If FedEx can leverage its existing express network to enhance ground shipping, it stands a better chance of thriving amidst increasing competition.

Your Smartphone: Big Brother's Best Friend

Recent technology trends, particularly the ubiquity of smart devices, have brought forth significant ethical dilemmas. The embedding of cyber connections in smartphones raises social and political issues surrounding privacy and data security. For instance, the vast amounts of data generated by smart devices could be exploited if not properly managed. Ethical concerns emerge regarding user consent and the extent to which personal information is collected and analyzed by corporations.

Big data analytics are increasingly applied to the data generated by smart devices, leading to improved services but also creating avenues for misuse. Ensuring ethical practices in data handling is paramount for companies wishing to maintain consumer trust in this data-driven economy.

Conclusion

The analyses of the case studies underscore the vital role that information systems play in modern businesses and governmental operations. As organizations continue to evolve in a digital landscape, operational efficiency, ethical considerations, and customer engagement remain paramount. Information systems provide the frameworks necessary for navigating these changes while presenting new challenges that require ongoing attention and critical analysis.

References

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• Cantos, P., & Ronsin, A. (2021). The Digital Transformation of Governance: Challenges and Opportunities. Government Information Quarterly, 38(2), 101547.
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