Kaycee M.

Valdez BSIT 3-1

Review Questions
1. What are functional silos and how did they evolve in organizations?
Functional silos are organizational units or departments that compartmentalize
tasks and activities within an organization. They evolved in organizations as a means to
improve efficiency and accountability by breaking down complex tasks into smaller,
manageable units. Over time, this led to the development of various departments like
Accounting and Human Resources, each responsible for specific functions.
2. What is the relationship between organizational functional silos and IS functional
silos?
Organizational functional silos and IS functional silos are closely related.
Organizational silos refer to the compartmentalization of tasks and activities within an
organization, while IS functional silos refer to the division of information systems based
on functions or departments. IS functional silos often mirror organizational silos, with
each department having its own information system.
3. Compare and contrast centralized, decentralized, and distributed IT architectures.
Which do you think is most appropriate for ERP and why?
Centralized IT architecture involves a single, central mainframe or server that
manages all computing resources. Decentralized IT architecture distributes computing
resources across various locations or departments. Distributed IT architecture, also
known as client-server architecture, involves sharing applications and data resources
between client and server computers. For ERP systems, a distributed or client-server
architecture is often more appropriate because it allows for flexibility and scalability in
managing enterprise-wide processes and data.
4. List the horizontal and vertical levels of systems that exist in organizations.
Horizontal levels of systems in organizations include strategic planning, tactical
management, and day-to-day operations. Vertical levels of systems involve hierarchical
layers, such as top-level executives, mid-level management, and lower-level
management, each responsible for different aspects of the organization.
5. What is logical integration and how is it different from physical integration?
Logical integration involves developing information systems that allow
organizations to share data with stakeholders based on need and authorization. It
focuses on changing organizational structures, processes, and employee roles to
facilitate seamless data sharing. Physical integration, on the other hand, provides the
technical connectivity between heterogeneous systems, ensuring that data can flow
smoothly between them.
6. Describe at least five steps involved in system integration.
Step 1 Resource categorization: Instituting IT support for an integrated systems
environment is necessary to avoid support and maintenance problems with the
integrated system.
Step 2 Compliance and standards: Develop a single sign-on policy because all
employees and external partners will need access to an integrated system from
anywhere, anytime.
Step 3 Legacy systems support: Develop a policy in support of older legacy
applications.
Step 4 Middleware tools: Middleware tools are essential for integration in the short
term if existing applications must be used by the organization.
Step 5 Authentication and authorization policies: Single sign-on policy for
application and data access because all employees and external partners will need
access to an integrated system from anywhere, anytime.
7. What are the key benefits and limitations of system integration?
Benefits: Limitations:
 Increased Revenue and Growth  High Initial Set-up Costs
 Leveling the Competitive Environment  Power and Interdepartmental
 Enhanced Information Visibility Conflicts (due to the sharing of
 Increased Standardization information)
 Long-term and Intangible ROI
(Usually several years)
 Creativity Limitations (Restricts
Creativity and Independence)
8. What is the role of ERP systems in system integration?
ERP systems play a crucial role in logical integration by requiring organizations
to focus on business processes rather than functions. They come with built-in processes
for various business functions, encouraging best practices and standardization. In terms
of physical integration, ERP implementations may require upgrading or replacing legacy
systems and ensuring seamless data flow between various applications.
9. Summarize the role of management in systems integration.
Management's role in system integration involves providing support, resources,
and guidance throughout the integration process. Managers must address human and
ethical challenges, develop policies on ethical information usage, and invest in security
measures. They should also be prepared for the long-term commitment required for
successful integration and the potential impact on employees and departments.