University Institute of Business

Bachelor of Business Applications

Information Technology for Managers

23BAT-105

DISCOVER . LEARN . EMPOWER

University School of Business 1
 Information Technology

Information Technology (IT) is a dynamic and rapidly evolving field that

encompasses the use of computers, software, networks, and electronic systems
to process, store, transmit, and manage information. It has become an integral
part of modern society, revolutionizing the way we communicate, work, and
live. From personal devices like smartphones to complex enterprise systems, IT
plays a pivotal role in shaping various aspects of our daily lives and driving
innovation across industries
Information technology (IT) is the use of computer systems or devices to
access information. Information technology is responsible for such a large
portion of our workforce, business operations and personal access to
information that it comprises much of our daily activities.

University School of Business

 Definition of Information

Information refers to data or knowledge that has been organized, processed,

and structured in a meaningful way to convey meaning, provide insight, or
facilitate understanding. It represents facts, details, or insights that can be
communicated, transmitted, or stored. Information carries value by helping
individuals or systems make informed decisions, solve problems, communicate
effectively, and gain a deeper understanding of a subject or situation. It can
exist in various forms, such as text, images, numbers, audio, and video, and it
plays a crucial role in enabling communication, learning, research, and
decision-making processes.

University School of Business

 Definition of Technology

Technology refers to the collection of techniques, tools, methods, processes,

and systems that are developed and utilized to solve practical problems,
improve efficiency, and achieve specific goals in various fields. It encompasses
the application of scientific knowledge to create innovations that enhance
human capabilities, transform industries, and drive societal progress.
Technology can involve physical devices, software applications, processes, and
even conceptual frameworks that enable the manipulation, transformation, and
utilization of resources and information. It has a significant impact on how
humans interact with their environment, communicate, conduct business,
access information, and accomplish tasks, ultimately shaping the way societies
evolve and adapt over time.

University School of Business

 History of IT
1. Pre-Modern Era (Before 20th Century):
• The earliest forms of information technology involve manual methods of data
processing, such as abacuses and counting boards.
• The invention of the printing press by Johannes Gutenberg in the 15th
century revolutionized the distribution of information.
2. Early Computing Machines (1930s-1950s):
• The Turing Machine, proposed by Alan Turing in the 1930s, laid the
theoretical foundation for computing and computation.
• The ENIAC (Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer) was one of the
first electronic general-purpose computers, completed in 1945.

University School of Business

 History of IT
3. Emergence of Digital Computers (1950s-1960s):
• The UNIVAC I (Universal Automatic Computer) became the first commercially
produced computer in the United States in 1951.
• The IBM 701 and IBM 1401 marked significant advancements in computer
technology during the 1950s and 1960s.
4. Mainframes and Minicomputers (1960s-1970s):
• The introduction of mainframe computers like the IBM System/360 series
revolutionized large-scale data processing and business computing.
• The 1970s saw the development of minicomputers, more affordable and accessible
than mainframes, and played a key role in scientific research and business
applications.
University School of Business
 History of IT

5. Personal Computers and Microprocessors (1970s-1980s):

• The release of the Altair 8800 in 1975 is considered the birth of the personal computer
era, inspiring hobbyists and enthusiasts.
• The Apple I and Apple II, launched in the late 1970s, popularized personal computing.
• The Intel 4004 microprocessor in 1971 marked a pivotal moment in computing, leading
to the development of microcomputers.
6. Rise of Graphical User Interfaces (1980s-1990s):
• The introduction of graphical user interfaces (GUIs) with the Xerox Star and Apple
Macintosh brought user-friendly interactions to computers.
• Microsoft Windows became a dominant GUI-based operating system in the late 1980s
and early 1990s.
University School of Business
 History of IT

7. Internet and World Wide Web (1990s):

• The creation of the World Wide Web by Tim Berners-Lee in 1989
revolutionized information sharing and communication.
• The 1990s saw the rapid expansion of the internet, connecting people and
businesses globally.
8. Dot-com Boom and E-commerce (Late 1990s-2000s):
• The late 1990s witnessed the dot-com boom, a period of intense growth in
internet-based businesses and technology companies.
• E-commerce platforms emerged, enabling online buying and selling,
reshaping retail and business University
modelsSchool of Business
 History of IT

9. Mobile and Wireless Technologies (2000s-Present):

• The 2000s saw the proliferation of mobile devices, with smartphones
becoming ubiquitous, driven by innovations like the iPhone in 2007.
• Wireless networking technologies, including Wi-Fi and cellular networks,
became essential for connectivity.
10. Cloud Computing and Beyond (2010s-Present):
• Cloud computing emerged as a transformative paradigm, enabling remote
storage, processing, and access to resources.
• Advancements in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data
analytics are shaping the future of IT.
University School of Business
 Modern Technology of IT

Modern technology in Information Technology (IT) encompasses a wide range of cutting-

edge developments that are shaping the present and future of digital innovation. Here are
some key areas of modern IT technology:
• Cloud Computing: Cloud technology has revolutionized how IT services are delivered
and consumed. Public, private, and hybrid cloud solutions provide scalable and flexible
resources, enabling businesses to store data, run applications, and manage workloads
remotely.
• Edge Computing: Edge computing involves processing data closer to its source,
reducing latency and enhancing real-time processing. It's crucial for applications like
IoT, where rapid data analysis is essential.
• 5G Connectivity: The rollout of 5G networks promises significantly faster data speeds,
lower latency, and increased connectivity, facilitating new applications like autonomous
vehicles and immersive experiences.
University School of Business
 Modern Technology of IT
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML): AI and ML
technologies are advancing rapidly, enabling systems to learn from data, make
predictions, and automate tasks. Applications include natural language
processing, image recognition, and predictive analytics.
• Block chain Technology: Block chain provides secure, transparent, and tamper-
resistant data storage. It's widely known for its association with cryptocurrencies
but has potential applications in supply chain management, voting systems, and
more.
• Internet of Things (IoT): IoT involves connecting everyday objects to the
internet, enabling them to send and receive data. This technology is driving
smart homes, industrial automation, healthcare monitoring, and more.
• Cybersecurity Innovations: As cyber threats grow in sophistication, modern IT
includes advanced cybersecurity measures like behavioral analytics, biometric
authentication, and zero-trustUniversity
frameworks.
School of Business
 Modern Technology of IT
• Quantum Computing: Quantum computers leverage the principles of
quantum mechanics to perform complex calculations at unprecedented speeds.
While still in its infancy, quantum computing holds immense potential for
solving complex problems in various fields.
• Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR): AR and VR
technologies merge the digital and physical worlds, enabling immersive
experiences. They find applications in gaming, education, training, and design.
• Robotic Process Automation (RPA): RPA involves automating repetitive
tasks using software robots. It's used to streamline workflows, reduce errors,
and enhance efficiency in various industries.
• Biotechnology and Health IT: Modern IT plays a critical role in healthcare
through electronic health records, telemedicine, wearable devices, and data
analytics for medical research.
University School of Business
 Modern Technology of IT

Green IT and Sustainability: IT is evolving to be more environmentally friendly, with

efforts to reduce energy consumption, minimize e-waste, and adopt sustainable practices.
Big Data and Data Analytics: With the explosion of data, technologies for processing,
analyzing, and deriving insights from large datasets are essential for informed decision-
making.
Autonomous Systems: From self-driving cars to drones and robots, autonomous systems
use AI and sensors to make decisions and perform tasks without human intervention.
Human-Machine Interaction: Natural language processing, gesture recognition, and
emotion analysis are shaping how humans interact with machines and devices.

The modern landscape of IT is characterized by rapid advancements and a continuous push

towards innovative solutions that improve efficiency, connectivity, and user experiences
across various sectors. As technology evolves, new opportunities and challenges will
University School of Business
undoubtedly arise, influencing the direction of IT in the years to come.
 Role of IT
The role of Information Technology (IT) is multifaceted and pervasive, impacting virtually
every aspect of modern life. IT plays a critical role in shaping the way we communicate, work,
learn, and conduct business. Here are some key roles that IT fulfills:
Communication and Connectivity:
• IT enables seamless communication through email, instant messaging, video
conferencing, and social media platforms.
• It provides the infrastructure for global connectivity via the internet, facilitating the
exchange of information across borders.
• Business Processes and Operations:
• IT supports business operations through tools like enterprise resource planning (ERP)
systems, inventory management, and customer relationship management (CRM) software.
• It enhances efficiency by automating processes and streamlining workflows.
• Data Management and Analysis:
• IT manages and processes vast amounts of data, enabling businesses and organizations to
make informed decisions.
• Data analytics and business intelligence tools help extract valuable insights from data.
University School of Business
 Role of IT

Innovation and Research:

• IT fuels innovation by providing tools for research, simulations, and modeling in
fields such as medicine, engineering, and science.
• It supports the development of new technologies, products, and services.
Education and Learning:
• IT facilitates online education and e-learning platforms, making education accessible
to a wider audience.
• It enhances traditional teaching methods through multimedia content, interactive
simulations, and online collaboration.
Healthcare and Medicine:
• IT enables electronic health records (EHRs), telemedicine, and medical imaging
technologies, improving patient care and diagnosis.
• It supports medical researchUniversity School of Business
and drug development through data analysis and
 Role of IT

Entertainment and Media:

• IT powers entertainment platforms like streaming services, online gaming, and
digital content creation.
• It enables the creation of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR)
experiences.
Cybersecurity and Privacy:
• IT plays a crucial role in safeguarding sensitive data and digital assets from cyber
threats.
• It ensures the privacy of individuals and organizations by implementing secure
authentication and encryption methods.
Social Interaction and Networking:
• IT connects people globally through social
University media
School platforms and online communities.
of Business
 Role of IT

E-commerce and Online Business:

• IT facilitates online shopping, payment processing, and digital marketing.
• It enables businesses to reach a global audience and operate in the digital
marketplace.
Environmental Sustainability:
• IT contributes to environmental conservation through technologies like smart
grids, energy-efficient devices, and data-driven environmental monitoring.
Government and Public Services:
• IT supports digital government initiatives, providing online services to
citizens, and improving administrative efficiency.
• It enhances public safety through surveillance
University School of Business and emergency response
 Areas of IT
Information Technology (IT) encompasses a wide range of specialized areas, each with its own unique
focus and expertise. Here are some prominent areas within the field of IT:
Software Development:
• Application Development: Creating software applications for specific purposes, such as mobile apps,
web apps, and desktop applications.
• Systems Programming: Developing software that interacts with hardware components and operating
systems.
• DevOps: Combining software development and IT operations to streamline the software lifecycle and
deployment.
Network and Security:
• Network Administration: Managing and maintaining computer networks, including LANs, WANs, and
cloud networks.
Cybersecurity:
• Protecting computer systems and networks from cyber threats, including viruses, malware, and
hacking.
Information Security: University School of Business
 Areas of IT
Database Management:
• Database Administration: Designing, implementing, and managing databases to store and retrieve data
efficiently.
• Data Analysis: Analyzing large datasets to extract meaningful insights and support decision-making.
Web Development:
• Front-End Development: Creating user interfaces and user experiences for websites and web applications.
• Back-End Development: Building the server-side logic and databases that power web applications.
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning:
• AI Development: Developing algorithms and systems that exhibit human-like intelligence and behavior.
• Machine Learning Engineering: Building and training machine learning models to perform tasks without explicit
programming.
Cloud Computing:
• Cloud Architecture: Designing and managing cloud infrastructure to deliver scalable and reliable services.
• Cloud Security: Ensuring the security of data and applications hosted in cloud environments.
Data Science and Analytics:
• Data Engineering: Collecting, cleaning, University
and organizing data
School of for analysis.
Business
 Advantages of IT
• Increased Efficiency and Productivity: IT automates and streamlines tasks, reducing manual effort and
boosting productivity across industries.
• Global Connectivity: IT has facilitated instant communication and collaboration across geographical boundaries,
enabling businesses and individuals to connect and share information easily.
• Access to Information: The internet provides a vast repository of information that is readily accessible,
supporting research, education, and informed decision-making.
• Innovation and Advancement: IT drives innovation by enabling the development of new technologies,
products, and services that improve quality of life and solve complex problems.
• E-commerce and Online Business: IT has revolutionized the way businesses operate, allowing for online
transactions, global markets, and efficient supply chain management.
• Healthcare Improvements: IT has transformed healthcare through electronic health records, telemedicine,
remote monitoring, and advanced medical imaging.
• Education Transformation: IT enhances education through online learning platforms, interactive simulations,
and digital resources accessible to a wide range of learners.
• Data Analysis and Decision-Making: IT enables data collection and analysis, leading to informed decision-
making and strategic planning.
• Entertainment and Media: IT has enriched entertainment experiences through streaming services, virtual
reality, gaming, and digital content creation.
• Automation and Robotics: IT is instrumental University School of
in developing Business
and controlling automated systems and robots that
 Disadvantages of IT

• Privacy and Security Concerns: The digital world is vulnerable to cyberattacks, data breaches, and privacy
infringements, posing risks to personal and organizational data.
• Job Displacement: Automation and AI technologies may lead to job loss or job displacement in certain
industries, potentially creating social and economic challenges.
• Digital Divide: Not everyone has equal access to IT resources, leading to a digital divide that can exacerbate
social and economic inequalities.
• Dependency and Addiction: Excessive reliance on technology can lead to addiction, reduced human interaction,
and negative impacts on mental health.
• Environmental Impact: IT contributes to energy consumption, e-waste, and carbon emissions associated with
data centers and electronic devices.
• Loss of Human Skill: Automation and AI could lead to a reduced emphasis on certain human skills and creative
thinking.
• Ethical Dilemmas: Emerging technologies like AI raise ethical questions related to biases, privacy, and decision-
making.
• Health Concerns: Prolonged use of digital devices can lead to health issues such as eye strain, digital addiction,
and disrupted sleep patterns.
• Information Overload: The sheer volume of available information can lead to information overload, making it
challenging to discern accurate and relevantUniversity
data. School of Business
 Principals of IT
Automation and Efficiency: IT is focused on automating processes and tasks to improve efficiency and reduce human
intervention. Automation leads to increased productivity and accuracy in various domains.
Integration: IT emphasizes the integration of different systems, software, and technologies to ensure seamless data
exchange and communication between various components.
Scalability: IT solutions should be designed to scale easily, whether it's accommodating more users, handling larger
datasets, or supporting increased demand.
Security: Security is paramount in IT. Protecting data, systems, and networks from unauthorized access, cyberattacks,
and breaches is a fundamental principle.
Data Management: Efficient management of data, including storage, retrieval, processing, and analysis, is a core
principle of IT.
User-Centered Design: IT systems and applications should be designed with the end-users in mind, ensuring a user-
friendly and intuitive experience.
Standardization: Following industry standards and best practices ensures interoperability, compatibility, and
consistency across IT systems.
Continuous Improvement: IT professionals continuously seek ways to improve processes, technologies, and systems
to keep up with the rapidly evolving field.
Adaptability: IT professionals must be adaptable and open to learning new technologies, as the field is ever-changing.
Ethics and Responsibility: IT practitioners must consider the ethical implications of their work, including privacy
concerns, data protection, and the impact of technology on society.
University School of Business
.
 Principals of IT

Collaboration: IT projects often involve cross-functional teams and

require effective collaboration between technical and non-technical
stakeholders.
Innovation: IT encourages creative problem-solving and the exploration
of new technologies to drive innovation and create new solutions.
Reliability and Availability: IT systems must be reliable and available,
ensuring minimal downtime and disruptions to users.
Cost-Effectiveness: IT solutions should be designed to provide value for
money, considering both initial costs and long-term operational expenses.
Documentation: Comprehensive documentation is essential for
understanding, maintaining, and troubleshooting IT systems.
Training and Education: Continuous
University Schoollearning
of Business and training are crucial in
 Difference between technology and information

Technology:
Technology refers to the practical application of scientific knowledge for
various purposes, including problem-solving, innovation, and creating tools or
systems. It involves the development and use of tools, machines, equipment,
and processes to accomplish tasks, improve efficiency, and achieve specific
goals. Technology encompasses both tangible and intangible elements that
enable the manipulation and transformation of the physical world.
Information:
Information: Information, on the other hand, is data that has been processed,
organized, or structured in a meaningful way to convey knowledge or meaning.
It is the result of analyzing, interpreting, and contextualizing data to provide
insights, make decisions, and communicate effectively. Information plays a
crucial role in decision-making, problem-solving, communication, and
University School of Business
understanding the world around us.
 Primary objectives of Information Technology

The primary objectives of Information Technology (IT) revolve around leveraging

technology to achieve specific goals and outcomes that enhance business processes,
communication, decision-making, and overall efficiency. Here are some key primary
objectives of IT:
• Efficiency and Automation: IT aims to streamline and automate processes, reducing
manual effort and minimizing errors. Automation enhances productivity and allows
organizations to allocate resources more effectively.
• Data Management and Analysis: IT focuses on effectively collecting, storing, and
analyzing data to derive valuable insights, support informed decision-making, and drive
business growth.
• Communication and Collaboration: IT facilitates seamless communication and
collaboration among individuals and teams through various tools, platforms, and
technologies, regardless of geographical boundaries.
University School of Business
 Primary objectives of Information Technology
• Enhanced Customer Experience: IT helps organizations deliver improved customer
experiences through personalized services, efficient interactions, and responsive
communication channels.
• Innovation and Creativity: IT encourages innovation by enabling the development of
new technologies, products, and solutions that address emerging challenges and
opportunities.
• Business Process Improvement: IT supports the optimization of business processes by
identifying bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and areas for improvement, leading to cost
reduction and increased effectiveness.
• Information Security: IT aims to safeguard data and digital assets from unauthorized
access, cyber threats, and breaches, ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability
of information.
• Strategic Decision-Making: IT provides data-driven insights that aid strategic decision-
making at all levels of an organization, fostering a more agile and adaptive approach to
business planning. University School of Business
 Primary objectives of Information Technology
• Global Reach and Connectivity: IT enables organizations to operate on a global scale by
providing the infrastructure and tools for international communication, transactions, and
collaborations.
• Continuous Learning and Adaptation: IT professionals and organizations must stay
current with evolving technologies, trends, and best practices to adapt to the dynamic and
rapidly changing IT landscape.
• Digital Transformation: IT drives digital transformation initiatives, helping organizations
modernize their operations, services, and business models to remain competitive in the
digital age.
• Efficient Resource Utilization: IT optimizes resource allocation, including hardware,
software, personnel, and infrastructure, to achieve the best possible outcomes within
budget constraints.
• Risk Management: IT contributes to identifying and mitigating risks related to
technology, cybersecurity, compliance, and operational disruptions.
University School of Business