Week 5 Final Project: IT System Recommendations

Week 5 Final Projectfinal Project It System Recommendationfor The

Write an eight-to ten-page research report (typed, double-spaced) describing a company, its business, a specific product or service, how that product or service is produced and distributed, and then recommend the information technology system that should be implemented and why. Address the company's background and existing information systems supporting its major functions; and detail your IT system recommendation, including decision-making needs, levels of information, automation, benefits, data elements, networking, decentralization, end-user needs, and system software development or acquisition. Additionally, analyze potential security threats and controls, social and political issues, and diversity impacts related to the proposed system. The report must adhere to APA style, feature a title page, cite at least three scholarly sources besides the course text, and include a references page.

Sample Paper For Above instruction

Title: Strategic IT System Recommendations for XYZ Manufacturing Corporation

Introduction

In the rapidly evolving landscape of manufacturing, companies must leverage advanced information technology systems to remain competitive, efficient, and responsive to market demands. XYZ Manufacturing Corporation, a leading producer of electronic components, exemplifies an organization that relies heavily on tailored IT solutions to streamline its operations from product design to distribution. This paper explores the company's background, analyzes its existing information systems, and presents a comprehensive recommendation for an integrated IT system designed to enhance decision-making, operational efficiency, and security.

Company Background and Information Systems

XYZ Manufacturing Corporation specializes in the production of high-precision electronic components for consumer electronics and industrial applications. The company’s core products include microchips, sensors, and printed circuit boards. Its operations encompass product design, manufacturing, quality control, marketing, and distribution. These functions are geographically dispersed across multiple facilities, necessitating a cohesive information management approach.

The organization employs several legacy and modern information systems. Its Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system manages inventory, procurement, and order processing, ensuring seamless coordination between manufacturing and sales. The Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system handles customer interactions and sales pipelines. Manufacturing is supported by Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) to monitor and control production lines, while Financial and Human Resources information systems support administrative functions. Nevertheless, these systems operate in silos, limiting real-time data sharing and strategic integration.

Importance of Information Systems in Managing Business

In a complex manufacturing environment like XYZ’s, information systems are vital for synchronizing supply chain activities, maintaining quality standards, and complying with regulatory requirements. They facilitate accurate forecasting, resource allocation, and timely decision-making, ultimately leading to cost savings, improved product quality, and customer satisfaction.

IT System Recommendations

Based on an assessment of XYZ’s operational and strategic needs, the recommended IT system integrates Enterprise Data Management, Advanced Analytics, Cloud Computing, and Enhanced Security Layers. The goal is to create a unified, scalable, and secure environment that supports real-time decision-making and fosters innovation.

Information Needs and Decision-Making Levels

Different organizational levels require tailored decision support. Tactical managers need access to production metrics and supplier performance data, whereas strategic executives require high-level dashboards highlighting market trends, financial performance, and long-term forecasts. Operational staff need real-time data on machine status and inventory levels to optimize workflows.

Levels include:

  • Operational: real-time control of manufacturing processes
  • Managerial: departmental performance reports
  • Strategic: market analysis and predictive analytics

Automation and Benefits

Automation of routine tasks such as inventory management, order processing, and quality checks will reduce errors and processing times, resulting in cost savings and improved throughput. The proposed system will enable faster response to market changes, enhance product quality through better monitoring, and provide insights for continuous improvement.

Data Elements and Networking

The system will handle diverse data types, including structured data (order details, inventory stats), images (quality inspection photographs), sound (machine diagnostics), and videos (training materials). A hybrid cloud and on-premise network structure will facilitate scalable, secure, and flexible data access across locations.

Centralization vs. Decentralization

A hybrid approach balances the benefits of centralized data repositories for strategic analytics with decentralized local processing for real-time operations. This setup ensures data consistency while maintaining operational responsiveness.

End-User Computing Needs

Employees at all levels require easy-to-use dashboards, mobile access, and customizable interfaces to enhance productivity and decision-making. User training and support will be integral to system adoption.

System Software Development or Acquisition

The recommendation favors developing customized modules integrated with existing ERP and MES solutions to adapt to XYZ’s specific processes while acquiring proven enterprise software for core functions. This hybrid approach ensures flexibility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness.

Security Threats and Controls

Risks include cyber-attacks, data breaches, insider threats, and system outages. Implementing multi-factor authentication, encryption, regular audits, and intrusion detection systems will mitigate these risks. Data backup and disaster recovery plans are essential to ensure business continuity.

Social and Political Issues

The deployment of advanced IT systems raises concerns over data privacy, compliance with legal standards, and potential automation-related job displacements. Transparent communication, staff retraining, and adherence to data governance policies are necessary to address these issues.

Diversity and Development

The diverse workforce at XYZ influences system design choices, emphasizing accessibility and usability across various employee groups. Inclusive training programs and multilingual interfaces support equitable system utilization and development.

Conclusion

The proposed integrated IT system aims to transform XYZ Manufacturing Corporation's operations into a more agile, data-driven, and secure enterprise. By aligning technology investments with strategic objectives and addressing security, social, and diversity considerations, XYZ can sustain competitive advantages and support long-term growth.

References

  • Laudon, K. C., & Laudon, J. P. (2020). Management Information Systems: Managing the Digital Firm (16th ed.). Pearson.
  • Turban, E., Pollard, C., & Wood, G. (2018). Information Technology for Management: Digital Strategies for Insight, Action, and Sustainable Performance. Wiley.
  • Shang, S., & Ring, P. (2021). Cloud Computing in Manufacturing Enterprises. Journal of Manufacturing Systems, 60, 112-124.
  • Kim, G., & Solomon, M. (2019). Cybersecurity and Cyber Defense. Elsevier.
  • Singh, M., & Khatri, V. (2020). Data Security and Privacy in Cloud Computing. IEEE Transactions on Cloud Computing, 8(2), 486-499.
  • Porter, M. E., & Heppelmann, J. E. (2014). How Smart, Connected Products Are Transforming Competition. Harvard Business Review, 92(11), 64-88.
  • ISACA. (2019). Security Management. IT Governance Publishing.
  • ISO/IEC 27001. (2013). Information Security Management Systems Standard. International Organization for Standardization.
  • OECD. (2021). The Impact of Digital Transformation on Society. OECD Digital Economy Papers, No. 319.

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