Information System Terminology (DP IB Business Management)
Revision Note
Written by: Lisa Eades
Reviewed by: Steve Vorster
Key Information System Terminology
Data Analytics
Data analytics involves transforming raw data into useful information to uncover patterns, correlations, trends and insights
Data analytics has become increasingly important to businesses in today's data-driven world
It helps organisations to gain a competitive advantage and make informed decisions
Data-driven decision making tends to be less risky than pursuing hunches
Diagram: illustrating key components of data analytics
Types of Data Analytics
Descriptive | Diagnostic |
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Predictive | Prescriptive |
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Databases
A database provides a structure for stored data
Typically electronic databases allow for swift data input, storage, protection and retrieval of information
Setting up and maintaining databases can be costly
Data must be kept secure
Database managers may be required to ensure databases are fit for purpose
Diagram: database use in a university
Cybersecurity & cybercrime
Cybersecurity includes systems used to protect computer networks from theft or unauthorised access of data
Cybercrime is illegal activity related to the use of computer or network devices
It is often related to financial or commercial gain
It is a significant risk to business - according the UK government cybercrime cost British businesses an average of £1,100, with 69% of large businesses reporting a significant cyber-attack in 2022
Common Forms of Cybercrime
Form | Description |
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Phishing |
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Ransomware/Malware attacks |
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Identity theft |
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Email/internet fraud |
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Intellectual property theft |
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Account hijacks |
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A business can protect itself against cybercrime in a number of ways
Ways to Protect Business Systems from Cybercrime
Method | Explanation |
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Employee training and awareness |
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Regular security audits & access control |
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Strong password & encryption policies |
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Backup and recovery |
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Examiner Tip
Despite taking all possible steps to protect their IT systems, businesses that increasingly rely on technology to manage key business processes are at risk from cybercrime
Business continuity following disruptions to IT systems is an important part of contingency planning and must be updated regularly to be effective against the latest risks
Critical Infrastructures
Critical infrastructures are IT-based systems and facilities that are central to the effective operation of a business
Examples of critical infrastructures include
Artificial neural networks
Data centres
Cloud computing
Artificial neural networks (ANNs) are computer systems inspired by the way the human brain works
They automate business tasks in some well-known businesses
Chatbots are used by businesses such as Next Retail to respond to customer service queries
Insurance companies such as Admiral use ANN's to detect fraud in insurance claims where unusual patterns need to be identified
Manufacturers including Toyota and Hyundai use ANN's to monitor machinery and predict when equipment is likely to fail so timely maintenance tasks can be carried out
Large retailers such as Tesco use ANNs to monitor temperatures in stores' refrigerated units to ensure that perishable goods are stored safely
Data centres are physical spaces that hold important applications and data on behalf of a business
Their components include mainframes, servers, routers, firewalls and storage systems
Services such as data backup, security, database management and storage, email and file sharing and virtual communications systems are provided by data centres
Cloud computing is similar to a data centre though applications and data are stored online rather than in a physical location
Examples include Google Drive, Dropbox and Apple's iCloud
Remote servers and online networks are used to store and share data
Virtual Reality, the Internet & Artificial Intelligence
Virtual reality
Virtual reality (VR) allows users to explore and interact with a realistic 3-dimensional (3D) environment created using software
VR can be used in a number of ways by businesses
Business use of Virtual Reality
Use | Explanation | Examples |
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Education and training |
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Retail |
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Entertainment |
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In addition, virtual reality can help businesses to deliver realistic training and has been used by some large businesses to develop immersive advertising
The Internet of things
The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to the connection of everyday objects to the internet which allows them to send and receive data for various purposes
In an IoT system tasks are performed with little or no human intervention
Devices can range from simple household items such as refrigerators and smart speakers to complex industrial machinery
Businesses such as Amazon have enjoyed commercial success with devices such as the Echo and its Alexa software
Devices can also be used within businesses to improve the efficiency of processes
Volvo car dealerships use data from embedded sensors in vehicles to offer timely maintenance to owners and ensure appropriate parts are in stock
Smart climate control systems are used in Sainsbury's supermarket distribution hubs to ensure perishable goods are not wasted
Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence (AI) allows machines to complete tasks that normally require human intelligence or reactions
Although in its infancy, some businesses are enjoying considerable commercial success in the field
Examples of Top AI Businesses in 2023
Google (Alphabet Inc) | Amazon Web Services |
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Tesla | OpenAI |
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AI can carry out numerous business functions and improve their efficiency
In Human Resources AI filters job applications and compiles shortlists for interview
Logistics have been improved by the use of AI-powered tools such as Google Maps which gather and process real time travel conditions
AI manages some customer service functions, powering chatbots and improving the efficiency of search engines
Automatic payment systems such as Paypal incorporate AI to improve financial management
Examiner Tip
At the time of writing governments around the world are considering taking steps to monitor and control the use and capabilities of AI
It is worthwhile keeping up with steps they take to protect individuals over the next few years - showing a contemporary understanding can improve the quality of your analysis and judgements
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