For the Final Project, you are asked to write an eight-to ten-page research report (typed, double-spaced) in which you describe a company of your choice, the nature of its business, a specific product or service, and how that product or service is produced and distributed by the company and then recommend the information technology system you think should be in place and why. Address the following questions in narrative form (according to APA style). Be sure to provide examples and supporting rationale throughout the paper.

QUESTION

Week 5 – Final Project

Final Project – IT System Recommendation

For the Final Project, you are asked to write an eight-to ten-page research report (typed, double-spaced) in which you describe a company of your choice, the nature of its business, a specific product or service, and how that product or service is produced and distributed by the company and then recommend the information technology system you think should be in place and why. Address the following questions in narrative form (according to APA style). Be sure to provide examples and supporting rationale throughout the paper.

Company Background and Information Systems

• What is the name, nature of business, and specific products or services of your chosen organization?
• How are the products or services produced and distributed by the company?
• Why are information systems essential in managing the organization’s business?
• Describe the existing information systems supporting the major business functions of the organization (e.g., sales and marketing, manufacturing and production, accounting, human resources, etc.)

Information Technology Recommendation

• What is your recommendation for the information technology systems you think should be in place and why? Your recommendation should include the following:
  • Information needs:
    • What types of decisions do users need to make by accessing the information systems?
    • What are the different levels of information groups?
  • Need for system automation
  • Benefits of the proposed system (savings, quality improvements, faster processing, etc.)
  • Types of database data elements (data, images, photographs, sound, video, etc.)
  • Networking and interactive processing
  • Centralization versus decentralization
  • End-user computing needs
  • Your recommendation to develop or acquire the system software

Potential Security Threats

• Describe the various threats and security threats to the proposed information system. What security controls are required to address the threats?

Social, Political, and Diversity Impacts

• Summarize the social and political issues raised by the proposed information system.
• Discuss the impact of diversity to the development and management of the proposed information system.

ANSWER

IT System Recommendation for Company X

Introduction

In this research report, we will explore the company background and information systems of Company X, a leading organization in its industry. We will analyze the importance of information systems in managing the organization’s business and discuss the existing systems supporting its major functions. Furthermore, a recommendation for the implementation of information technology systems will be provided, along with an evaluation of potential security threats. Lastly, we will consider the social, political, and diversity impacts of the proposed information system.

Company Background and Information Systems

Company X is a multinational technology company specialising in developing and manufacturing consumer electronics. Their product portfolio includes smartphones, tablets, laptops, wearables, and home entertainment devices. The company has a diverse range of services, including cloud storage, digital content distribution, and software applications.

The production and distribution process of Company X involves a combination of in-house manufacturing and strategic partnerships with global suppliers. The manufacturing process consists of designing, prototyping, sourcing raw materials, assembly, quality control, and packaging. Once the products are ready, they are distributed through a network of retail stores, e-commerce platforms, and authorized resellers.

Information systems are essential for Company X to effectively manage its business operations. These systems enable efficient communication, collaboration, data management, and decision-making across different departments and geographical locations (Importance of Information Systems in an Organization, 2019). They facilitate the integration of various business functions, such as sales and marketing, manufacturing and production, accounting, and human resources.

The existing information systems supporting the major business functions of Company X include:

Sales and Marketing: Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems are used to manage customer data, track sales leads, and analyze marketing campaigns.

Manufacturing and Production: Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems are employed to streamline production processes, monitor inventory levels, and optimize supply chain management.

Accounting: Financial management systems are utilized for managing financial transactions, tracking expenses, and generating financial reports.

Human Resources: Human Resource Information Systems (HRIS) are employed to manage employee data, track attendance, process payroll, and administer benefits.

Information Technology Recommendation

Based on the analysis of Company X’s requirements, the following recommendation is made for the information technology systems that should be in place:

Information Needs

Users require access to accurate and real-time information to make informed decisions. This includes sales data, inventory levels, production schedules, financial reports, and customer feedback. The information systems should provide timely and comprehensive data to support strategic, tactical, and operational decision-making.

Different Levels of Information Groups

The information system should cater to various levels of users, such as top-level executives, managers, and operational staff. Each level requires different types and levels of information, ranging from high-level summaries to detailed transactional data.

System Automation

The recommended system should automate repetitive tasks, streamline processes, and reduce manual errors. This automation will enhance productivity, reduce costs, and improve overall efficiency.

Benefits of the Proposed System

The proposed system will bring several benefits to Company X, including cost savings through process optimization, improved quality control through real-time monitoring, faster processing times, enhanced data analysis capabilities, and better collaboration and communication across departments (Sivarajah et al., 2017).

Types of Database Data Elements

The database should accommodate various data elements, such as structured data (e.g., sales figures, inventory levels), unstructured data (e.g., customer feedback, social media sentiment), multimedia elements (e.g., product images, marketing videos), and time-series data (e.g., production trends, sales forecasts).

Networking and Interactive Processing

A robust network infrastructure should be established to support seamless communication and data transfer between different locations and departments. Interactive processing capabilities should enable real-time data updates and facilitate collaborative decision-making.

Centralization versus Decentralization

Considering the global operations of Company X, a hybrid approach is recommended. Centralization of certain core systems, such as ERP and CRM, can ensure consistency and standardization, while decentralized systems can provide flexibility and customization based on regional requirements.

End-User Computing Needs

The proposed information system should provide user-friendly interfaces and self-service capabilities to empower end-users in accessing and analyzing relevant data. This will reduce dependence on IT support and enable quick decision-making.

System Software Development or Acquisition

Considering the complexity of Company X’s requirements, a combination of system software development and acquisition is recommended. Customization can be done to meet specific business needs, while off-the-shelf software can be utilized for standard functionalities.

Potential Security Threats

The proposed information system may face various security threats, including unauthorized access, data breaches, malware attacks, and insider threats. To address these threats, the following security controls are essential:

Access Controls: Implement strong authentication mechanisms, role-based access control, and encryption to restrict unauthorized access to sensitive information.

Data Protection: Employ robust data encryption methods to protect data at rest and in transit. Regular backups and disaster recovery plans should be in place to ensure data integrity and availability.

Security Monitoring: Implement intrusion detection and prevention systems, log analysis, and real-time monitoring to detect and respond to security incidents promptly.

Employee Awareness and Training: Conduct regular cybersecurity awareness programs and provide training to employees to educate them about security best practices and potential risks.

Incident Response: Establish an incident response plan to outline the steps to be taken in the event of a security incident. This plan should include procedures for containment, investigation, recovery, and communication.

Social, Political, and Diversity Impacts

The proposed information system may raise social and political issues related to data privacy, cybersecurity, and employment impact. It is crucial to comply with applicable laws and regulations regarding data protection and privacy (“Protecting Privacy in an AI-driven World | Brookings,” 2023). Additionally, the system should be designed to promote diversity and inclusivity in terms of user accessibility and cultural considerations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the implementation of a comprehensive information technology system will greatly benefit Company X in managing its business operations effectively. The recommended system should cater to the diverse information needs, automate processes, and provide security controls to mitigate potential threats. Considering the social, political, and diversity impacts will ensure the system’s alignment with ethical and legal standards. By embracing the proposed information system, Company X can enhance its competitiveness, achieve operational excellence, and foster sustainable growth in the dynamic market landscape.

References

Importance of Information Systems in an Organization. (2019, March 5). Small Business – Chron.com. https://smallbusiness.chron.com/importance-information-systems-organization-69529.html 

Protecting privacy in an AI-driven world | Brookings. (2023, June 27). Brookings. https://www.brookings.edu/articles/protecting-privacy-in-an-ai-driven-world/ 

Sivarajah, U., Kamal, M., Irani, Z., & Weerakkody, V. (2017). Critical analysis of Big Data challenges and analytical methods. Journal of Business Research, 70, 263–286. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbusres.2016.08.001