Week 14:Clear/ Thin Client

A thin client is a software program or an actual computer that relies on another computer to do a great amount of its work. A thin client is mainly used to do one function, such as, surfing the Web or e-mails. It is simpler than a computer in that it does not contain everything a computer has. Thin computers have CPU, RAM, NIC, IO (screen, keyboard, mouse, and sound), but do not contain a hard drive. Many people choose a thin client over a normal computer because it is more efficient with the simple tasks that need to be accomplished. Also, using a thin client to complete the assignment will be less expensive for the user. I recommend thin clients to those who are not computer savvy because it will be easier to use since there are not as many functions and features.

Image taken from hp.com

Thin clients are important for small businesses. Small businesses may not have to spend a lot of money getting new computers for the office when they can just use thin clients to do specific tasks for the company. Thin clients still have a large amount of memory, storage, CPU power, and more efficient use of HW resources. The HW repairs faster and is less disruptive to the users. All these benefits will help the business run smoothly and efficiently.

http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-a-thin-client.htm
The link above will take you to an article that explains more in depth about thin clients and if they are right for you!

Week 13: Clear/Piracy

Piracy is a type of software theft where one copies and distributes copyright protected software. This can harm developers and consumers by having a higher risk for viruses. Even though it is frowned upon in the United States, it is very common over seas. For example in Vietnam it is almost encouraged to have piracy. There are stores that sell particular programs to fit ones budget. Programs can cost as low as half of what you would originally buy it for. Even though it may be illegal, many owners are warned as to when the police are coming to stores to check for unauthorized copied programs, coincidentally on those days the stores are closed. Some say its worth the risk to purchase these programs even though you are at a higher risk for catching viruses and worms. Below is the link to the article regarding piracy in Vietnam:  http://news.cnet.com/8301-17938_105-10122530-1.html

Image taken from findmysoft.com

Piracy is very concerning for businesses. It is very important for companies to not purchase programs that have been unauthorized to be copied because it is copyright protected software. Because these programs can cause worms and viruses, companies should stay away from them because they should not put their businesses in danger. If businesses catch a virus or worm on their systems they could cause major damage to the business. This damage could cause delays and loss of vital information for the company and client.

The link below takes you to an article that goes more in depth of what piracy is:
http://www.fastiis.org/our_services/enforcement/software_theft/

Project-Secure Email

In the case study, "The Need For Secure Email," Brad Blake, IT director at the Boston University School of Medicine, expressed the need for signed and encrypted e-mails. There is information that is private for the patients and doctors that should only be seen by those in that particular department. Without encryption any one can open this e-mail that contains sensitive information, such as your SSN. Blake looked for a program that would be compatible with portable devices, such as Blackberry, since most doctors communicate with the department using them. He found after research that Voltage Security SecureMail met all the needs for the hospital and different departments there. 

Below is the link to the case study:

http://www.processor.com/editorial/article.asp?article=articles%2Fp3017%2F13p17%2F13p17.asp

Below is a screen capture of Thunderbird, with the signed e-mail:

Below is a screen capture of Thunderbird with the encrypted e-mail:

Week 12: Clear/ VoIP

Image taken from baacs.com

Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is useful in many ways. VoIP lets one make voice calls using broadband Internet instead of a phone line. A person speaks into a microphone attached to you computer; your voice is then converted to compressed digital data stream; the data is transmitted across any IP network; data that is transmitted is received, converted into sound, then sent to audio output devices. Examples of VoIP are Skype and Vonage.

VoIP is used in many businesses today. It is a good way for National and International Companies to communicate, have business meetings, and present ideas. Some VoIP systems allow the use of video, such as Skype. Without this new technology many companies would not be as successful. They would not be able to expand their consumers or products across the globe.

The link below takes you to a Web site that answers questions and explains more about voice over internet protocol:

http://www.fcc.gov/voip/

ISM Extra Credit- Second Life

Second Life is a way to escape from reality and the real world. I have never used Second Life prior to this extra credit assignment, but my experience with Second Life was good, although I probably will not keep up with it after this assignment. As I started my life in Second Life, I created my avatar to be gothic, his name is Snape Crescendo. He went to many destinations such as Welcome Island, Viviane Fashion Show, Caribbean Resort, Vamporium, and the September Rainforest. I explored each Island and talked to many people. It was very interesting to realize that you can buy houses, cars, and other things. Below is a screen shot of Snape Crescendo at September Rainforest.

ISM Extra Credit- VoIP

VoIP is a way to call and see your friends and family all at once. This was not my first time using VoIP. I always use Skype, it is convenient and easy to use. I started to use Skype when I came to college to call my parents. My first time using Skype was good experience and I have continued to use it over the years, especially to call my friends from different schools. VoIP has become very popular, many of my professors have started to use Skype during office hours, to call students who are unable to come into their office. For this extra credit assignment I called my sister and her husband in Saint Petersburg.

http://www.screencast.com/users/sarahfaulkner/folders/Jing/media/58a66345-777a-43d5-97a2-9621ecf57b7a 

Database project

I have not used Access before, so I learned new skills in each section of the database project.  I learned how to create a new table and how to add fields and field descriptions.  The process of importing data into the database was the most difficult part of this project for me.  This was because some of the field descriptions that I used did not match those in the data I was importing.  Also, date fields like birthdates and joined dates were input differently.  It took quite a while to get all of the data to match so the import would work correctly, but I finally learned how to do it. I also learned how to create a Select query, with the data ordered in ascending order.  I learned how to create a Form, add information to the form and set a field so that it is read-only, by using the Lock feature. Finally, I learned how to create a report, where the data is grouped and sorted, and how to add a footer to the report. 

Regarding enhancements to the database, I thought of several types of information that could be added.  I would think the manager of any business, like a gym, would like to see some financial information on a report.  For example, the report could show the annual or monthly amount each members pays, or whether any members are past due in their payments.  Since the report shows when certain members left, it could also show the reason why they left.  Finally, for the “Individual” members, the report could show if they are married or have children, so that the manager could sell to the family members. 

Week 11: Clear/ System Analyst

In order to be a system analyst one must love to write, communicate effectively, and listen well. System analysts create solutions for businesses to become more efficient and productive. They do research on a problem, plan and propose solutions, promote software and systems and coordinate problem solving processes. They also guarantee that the business standards and requirements are met.

Image taken from bplteensofwa.wordpress.com

A system analyst is very important for the business world. Since they are familiar with computer programming languages, operating systems, and computer hardware platforms, they translate a company's request into a technical specification. They solve problems for companies regarding their software system and help them run more efficiently. They also help write reports for these companies. 

http://www.bls.gov/k12/computers06.htm

The above link will take you to an article that explains all the components of system analyst's job.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tChuHB4eHQM

This video will explain a day in the shoes of a system analyst. 

Week 10: Database/Clear

Everyone works with data and information. Sometimes we get so overwhelmed with information, either from work or school, that it becomes unorganized. Databases are a good way to organize that information.

A database is an organized collection of related information. It provides functionality, so one can add, delete, find, sort, limit access, control formatting, validate, compare, convert, collect, or even distribute data.  A database management system (DBMS), programs to manage the database. The data stored in the database is separate from the management tools. 

Image taken from www.blurtit.com/q8258852.html

A database is useful for the business world. Businesses have tons of information that may be hard to keep track of. Databases will organize and manage information in a structured and controlled manner. This will keep the business running smoothly and professionally. 

Here is a link to a blog that will explain the benefits of a database and the difference between DBMS and a database: http://www.blurtit.com/q8258852.html

Web 2.0 presentation/project-Girl Effect

http://www.slideboom.com/presentations/225508/Girl-Effect 


Web 2.0 presentation project has taught me how to create successful presentations for school and for my career. There are many tools to take away from this assignment. The link above will take you to a the presentation I created about a non-profit organization, Girl Effect, which helps adolescent girls stay in school and create a better life for them and their families.

After watching my presentation many times and critiquing myself, I believe the project had an excellent logical flow and sequence of content. I answered questions that viewers would have anticipated. I did an excellent job at grabbing the viewers attention in the first 30-60 seconds, by showing an inspiring video. I could have done better about asking questions to spark the viewers curiosity. I set the context with concise explanation and it was clear what I was trying to share with the audience.  I did a good job at clearing up any questions that the audience might have had. I avoided clutter by putting limited text and only one photo per page. I did not just read what was on the slides, but explained in depth each bullet point, that viewers would listen to. By avoiding clutter, I ensured that the audience was able to read the slides thoroughly before moving on to the next point or slide.

One of the tools learned from this project is not to clutter a presentation. Another tool, is to elaborate beyond what is written on the slides. Add enthusiasm and explain in depth each point and the interesting facts. Grabbing the audience's attention in the first 30-60 seconds is crucial to keeping them engaged throughout the entire presentation. As an advertising major, I will use these tips to create presentations to show ideas to clients. These tools will result in effective and powerful presentations.

Weel 9: Clear/ Internet vs. the Web

Many people use the Internet and the Web interchangeably; the truth is, they are two separate things. I have done this many times in school papers and previous blog posts. It was good to learn that these two things, were in fact, not the same.

Image is taken from notarealdoman.com

 The Internet connects computers together all over the globe, this forms a network that allows one computer to communicate with any other computer, as long as they are connected to the Internet.

The World Wide Web (WWW) is a way to recover information over a medium of the Internet. The Web uses HTTP protocol (one of the languages spoken over the Internet to transmit data) to allow users to exchange and share information. Browers are used to access Web pages. For example,  Firefox is one browser out of many.

The graphic is taken from clipartof.com

The Internet and the Web are useful tools to the business world. Businesses are able to expand their companies globally with the connection of the Internet. The WWW allows them to research data for their client and for their business. It also allows them to gain information on the competition in that particular industry. The Internet and the WWW are important for the business world, helping them succeed and grow stronger. Without the Internet and the WWW, I feel our economy and the business world would not be as advanced as we are today.

The link below will explain the differences of the Internet and the WWW.
http://internet.linkular.com/other/internet-vs-www/  

Extra Credit/ Creating an Avatar

Creating an avatar sounds difficult, but once you have found the right tools, it's actually very simple. There are many Web sites to choose from that will help you create your very own avatar. One in particular is: http://www.buildyourwildself.com/. This Web site allows you create your own avatar with animal parts. I chose to create an avatar that looked like me and included my favorite animal, a shark.

This assignment was very interesting and fun to learn about. I now know how to create an avatar, something that will be very useful for the business world. This can assist with building Web sites, and brand recognition for your company.

Here you can see the avatar I created!

Week 7: Clear/ "Takahashi Method"

Up until these lectures, I thought I had presentations under control. As an advertising major I will have to present many ideas to future employees and companies. Through this lesson I was able to understand what I am doing wrong and how to fix my presentations. I was putting too much information on my slides, whereas one should really put at least as possible. The "Takahashi Method" really stood out to me. When there is less on the slides, one is able to read it, then pay attention to the speaker. Even though the idea of having all eyes and ears on you is a scary thought, it will help you to become a better speaker.

"Living large: "Takahashi Method" uses king-sized text as a visual," is an article written in a Japanese newspaper about Mr. Masayoshi Takahashi. He uses short words instead of complicated words or phrases, although the interesting part about his presentations is that all the text is BIG. This method gives the audience a clear message in a shorter amount of time. It helps people remember and understand Mr. Masayoshi Takahashi's presentation.

This method is very useful within the business world. By using the "Takahashi Method," businesses and employees will become more interested in presentations and more appreciative of presenters. As someone going into the business world, I feel that this technique will give me confidence in gaining the respect of employers and colleagues as young professional.

Below is the link to the article which will show what Mr. Masayoshi Takahashi's slides look like. It will also provide tips to why his presentation style works best:
http://presentationzen.blogs.com/presentationzen/2005/09/living_large_ta.html

Here is another link that shows a simple yet powerful presentation.  Girl Effect uses this presentation to share a meaningful message with others. The video shows how we can help young girls raise the standard of living not only for themselves but for their families as well. I encourage you to visit the Web site and see how effective this message is. It shows that fewer words can mean more!
http://www.girleffect.org/video

Excel Project

The Excel Project was to do a variety of analyses for a particular workout for our fitness center that we work at. The center’s owner collected data from 500 subjects. The data consisted of the subject’s starting heart rate. Their starting heart rate was measured each minute through a 15-minute workout, and continued to be measured each minute during a 5-minute cool down. We were provided with an Excel spreadsheet that contained the raw data for the 500 subjects, which included their age, sex, and 21 heart rate measurements, starting from time 0:00 to time 20:00. To accomplish these analyses, we are to work in the Excel program and complete different steps, where we will learn how to use tools within Excel.

Excel is tricky software to get the hang of. There are so many specific details that one must learn to be able to successfully use Excel. This project has taught me tools for my future career that is essential for the business world. Three tools in particular that I learned through this project were formulas, pivot tables and printing excel documents. 

Formulas are something that I never used before the Excel project. This tool is very useful for applying a mathematical equation to large amounts of data. Every formula must start with an = sign. After typing in your formula Excel using PEMDAS (please excuse my dear aunt sally) to solve the equation. One can also copy and paste this formula to different columns, same formula different data and answer. 

Another tool that I learned that will be very useful for my career is a pivot table. To create a pivot table one must click the pivot table and pivot chart wizard. To configure a pivot table, to give you a "count" of items instead of a sum, double click the field button on the Pivot Table, under Summarize By, select count, and then click OK. Also an important tool to learn working with Pivot Tables is setting the number format of data in a Pivot Table. To do this click a cell in the data area. On the PivotTable toolbar, click Field Settings. Click Number. In the Category list, click the format category you want. Select the options you want for the format, and then click OK twice. If the report has more than one data field, repeat these steps for each one. Below is the pivot table I created for the Excel Project, which shows the average of percent increase in heart rate for males and females of different ages.

Printing Excel documents may be common sense to some, but took me a few minutes to get the hang of every part of successfully printing the document. One lesson in particular that I learned with printing Excel documents were to automatically scale a printout to fit within a certain number of pages wide. I also learned how to print on the top of every page the display of the set of column headings. This is very handy for lengthy documents consisting of multiple pages. 

Week 6: Clear/ Lossy vs. Lossless

Many files need to be compressed to store or send to another computer. There are so many ways to compress a file. Two in particular are lossy and lossless. Lossy compression is used for multimedia data, such as audio, video or still images. This type of compression is a data encoding method which discards some of the data. As viewers, we do not notice the difference. The second type of compression is lossless. Lossless compression allows the original data to be reconstructed from the compressed data to eliminate redundancy in the image. This type of compression is important for archiving and editing files. Lossless compression is used for text documents or source codes.

The diagram above shows how lossy and lossless compression, compress the files and then restore them. Lossless restores the original files, whereas lossy discards some of the data while it is being compressed and restores the data that has not been lost. 

Lossy and lossless compression are important to the business world. Having different types of compressions allows businesses to have more options and meet the needs of different tasks. These types of compressions work for different businesses as well.

http://computer.howstuffworks.com/file-compression3.htm  
The link above will explain lossy and lossless compression. It will also explain the pros and cons of each and what each compression is used for.

Week 5: Clear/ Formulas

Formulas in Excel can be confusing, but a very useful tool to use. Formulas let one perform calculations on data that is entered into the spreadsheet. Formulas can help with crunching numbers such as addition, subtraction, payroll deductions or averaging a student's test results. Even if one changes the data in the spread sheet it will automatically recalculate the answer without having to re-enter in the formula. 

This tool is especially important for the business world. Excel spreadsheets are used in a variety of ways for  many different businesses. Formulas allow businesses to perform calculations quickly and reduce the amount of error. One can also apply the formula to large amounts of data on a spreadsheet. 

http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/how-to-enter-basic-formulas-in-excel-2007.html

The link above takes one through a step-by-step  process to create a formula and apply it to large amounts of data. The picture to the left shows what a formula looks like and where you place it in the tool bar. It is applied to the data below in the spreadsheet.

Week 4: Clear/ Application Software

Application software is very useful for many computer users. This type of software helps users perform tasks using the computer.  Some examples of application software are: Windows 7, TurboTax and Norton Antivirus. All these programs help the users to be more productive. There are many different application software programs out there, some in particular are: horizontal applications, vertical applications, software suites, standalone applications and functional categories.

Application Software is important to the business world. It helps companies succeed in their industry. For example, a graphic designer can now use photoshop to further their designs and create ads. This helps the advertising company express to consumers about a product they are advertising, which helps the company/ brand in making their product popular and more competitive. This software can help businesses run faster, becoming more efficient.

http://www.sciencedaily.com/articles/a/application_software.htm
The link is an article that explains application software. Application software makes it easier to use other programs such as spreadsheets and word processor. Without application software our world would not be as innovative and productive as it is today.

Week 3: Clear/ Motherboard

There are many pieces that make up a computer. One of the main and most important pieces that ties the whole computer together is the motherboard. The motherboard in a computer is like a circuit board. Every other component can be mounted onto the motherboard which allows them to receive power and communicate with one another.  Most motherboard systems have a microprocessor and main memory. Devices that are not already on the motherboard can be attached by plug-in cards or cables.

The motherboard is especially important to the business world. This allows businesses to add and take away devices on a computer. It is also very convenient if a piece breaks, you do not have to buy another computer you can just replace that piece on the motherboard.

Motherboard

http://computer.howstuffworks.com/motherboard.htm

The link above explains the motherboard and includes pictures of what a motherboard looks likes. The very first motherboard had only a processor and card slot. Many users only plugged in components such as a floppy drive controllers and memory into the slots. As you can see the motherboard has come a long way since then.

Week 2: Muddy/ Hard Drives

After finishing all the homework videos, I found that it was very difficult to follow all of the abbreviations for the terms. Another "muddy" concept that was hard for me to grasp was in homework 2, when we discussed Hard Drives. The makeup of the Hard Drive consisting of platter, track, and sector confused me. After researching these three concepts it became very clear to me.

A platter is a circular disk in the Hard Drive where the magnetic data is stored. The track is where all the information is recorded in the Hard Drive. They consist of concentric circles placed on top of the platter. For example, it is similar to the annual rings of a tree. The tracks are numbered, starting on the outside of the platter at zero and increasing as you move inside. A hard disk could have tens of thousands of tracks on the platter. The sector is a subdivision of a track that holds a certain amount of data. Together all these work together to make up the Hard Drive.

Platter

Track

Sector

Wikipedia helped me understand these concepts. For more information visit:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hard_drive_platter

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hard_disk_drive

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hard_disk_drive

Week 1: Clear/ Copyright

Although there is a fine line between what is legal and illegal regarding copyright laws, it is often not black and white for the average person. Before this lesson, I had a hard time differentiating between the laws myself. Users need to be careful using material directly from the World Wide Web since most is copyrighted, meaning that someone owns the form that the idea takes. To use this material the user must be the copyright owner or the owner must give the user permission to use their material or the material must be in the public domain.

Copyright can come in all shapes and sizes. Books, plays, music, dance, movies and pictures can all be copyrighted. These copyrighted materials can be owned for a lifetime, plus 70 years. For companies, it is over 100 years. Copyright is very important to the competitive business world. So many forms of ideas are being created to make each company stronger than its competitor. Copyright is very handy in the sense that it protects those forms of ideas, helping each company stand out to consumers.

This Web site lists different examples of copyright infringement: http://lawvibe.com/top-10-copyright-law-scandals-that-rocked-the-world-in-2009/. Example 1 discusses how Napster was shut down due to copyright issues. Copyright is still controversial among many people and companies. This article shows how people need to abide by certain conditions in order to use copyrighted material and to be extremely careful using ideas from the Web.