The specific objectives of chapter 2 are:

1. To outline the underlying structure of all digital computers, including input, output, memory,
arithmetic/logical unit, control unit, and files.
2. To describe the all-important stored-program concept, which is the basis for the way in which all
computers operate today.
3. To describe the different categories of computers, including microcomputers, midrange systems,
mainframes, and supercomputers, and to identify the major hardware manufacturers in each
category.
4. To distinguish between applications software and support software.
5. To introduce the idea of purchased applications packages.
6. To consider the variety of personal productivity software packagessuch as word processing,
spreadsheets, and presentation graphicsthat are likely to be used by managers on a regular basis.
7. To consider the wide variety of functions accomplished by the operating system and to describe the
other types of support software, including language translators, database management systems,
communications interface software, CASE tools, and utility programs.
8. To consider the makeup and changing composition of the different components of the information
technology (IT) industry.