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Information Systems for Managers

December 2023 Examination

Ans-1

Introduction

Scalability and efficiency are essential for an enterprise's growth and expansion in today's
cutthroat business environment. A well-known jewelry business called Ghanshyam Das and
Sons Jewellers began as a tiny store in Delhi and over time expanded to have numerous
locations all throughout India. Their path is a perfect example of the traditional Indian goal of
transforming a small business into a national venture. The inherent difficulty of upholding
uniformity, managing operations, and ensuring effective communication among branches,
however, arises with expansion. The overall perspective becomes confused and inefficient
since each branch may use its own local system to handle inventory, sales, and orders.
According to the recommended solution, cloud computing is the key. Moving activities to the
cloud has the ability to not only streamline processes but also provide real-time visibility,
facilitating enhanced operational efficiency and decision-making.

Concept and Application:

We must first examine the fundamentals of cloud computing and how it transforms corporate
operations in order to comprehend the value of the cloud for Ghanshyam Das and Sons
Jewellers.

1. An Overview of Cloud Computing

Instead of relying on physical servers or on-premises data centers, cloud computing is a


technology that enables businesses to access and store data, applications, and resources over
the internet. Similar to renting computing power and storage space as needed, it offers
scalability and flexibility.

2. Real-Time Access and Centralization

The centralization of data is one of the cloud's immediate advantages. This implies that all
stores may submit and access data from a single central location, which is advantageous for a
company like Ghanshyam Das & Sons Jewellers that has numerous locations. To ensure that
managers and decision-makers have a single and clear view of inventory, sales, and orders
across all branches, this eliminates the chaos of different data points. Real-time access
guarantees prompt decision-making, which is essential in the hectic retail industry where
inventory control is key.
3. Cost effectiveness and scalability

The business's IT requirements expand along with it. With traditional IT infrastructures,
organizations must invest heavily in hardware up front to prepare for future expansion. On
the other side, cloud services use a pay-as-you-go business model. With no significant up-
front costs, Ghanshyam Das & Sons Jewellers may quickly scale up their IT resources as they
grow. This guarantees both cost effectiveness and the ability of the company to quickly adjust
to changing customer demands.

4. Improved Compliance and Security

Security is a big issue for organizations, particularly in the jewelry industry. The security of
the data is a top priority for cloud service providers, who make significant investments in
multi-factor authentication, advanced encryption techniques, and other security measures.
Additionally, many cloud providers make sure that their services are compliant, lessening the
load on the firm, considering that the jewelry industry may be subject to various compliance
and standards.

5. Automatization and Integration

Whether it's CRM, ERP, or analytics tools, cloud platforms frequently include the capacity to
interact with other tools and applications. This means that a jewelry store can have an
integrated system where client purchase histories from one branch can be accessed by another
branch to offer customized services, or where sales data directly influences inventory
management. This seamless interface makes automation possible while lowering human error
rates and streamlining procedures.

6. Disaster recovery and business continuity

Natural disasters, technical problems, and even human mistake are just a few of the dangers
that physical servers are subject to. Data is the new gold, therefore losing it might be
disastrous for organizations. Cloud services frequently include backup and disaster recovery
features right out of the box. Data can be swiftly retrieved in the event of any unforeseen
circumstance, assuring business continuity.

The Best Cloud and Service to Use

A hybrid cloud approach would be the most appropriate option given the requirements of
Ghanshyam Das & Sons Jewellers. This is why:

Hybrid clouds blend public and private clouds. Customers' personal information, exclusive
designs, and pricing plans are examples of sensitive data that can be safely saved in the
private cloud. Less sensitive operational data, such as inventory counts or overall sales data,
can also be stored on the public cloud concurrently. The jewelers now have the best of both
worlds in terms of cost effectiveness and security.
b. There are basically three types of cloud service models: infrastructure as a service (IaaS),
platform as a service (PaaS), and software as a service (SaaS).

• IaaS: In this case, the company leases cloud provider's servers, storage, and other IT
infrastructure. For jewelers who have a dedicated IT team and desire more control over their
applications and infrastructure, this would be ideal.

• PaaS: This service offers a platform that frees users from the difficulties of maintaining
infrastructure so they may create, run, and manage applications. PaaS would be great for
Ghanshyam Das and Sons Jewellers if they were considering creating a custom application to
manage their operations.

Software as a service (SaaS) refers to internet-based subscription-based software services. A


SaaS-based inventory and sales management system would be the quickest fix given the
immediate need for Ghanshyam Das and Sons Jewellers to have an oversight across branches.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Ghanshyam Das and Sons Jewellers' journey toward digital transformation
represents an advancement in leveraging technology to address operational difficulties.
Moving to the cloud is a strategic step to ensure scalability, efficiency, and real-time
oversight rather than solely an IT decision. The jewelers' capacity to secure centralized data
access and make quick, educated decisions is increased by adopting the cloud. The correct
cloud type and service must be chosen because they will determine how easily the company
can convert to using the cloud, how much it will cost, and to what degree it can do so.
Integrating contemporary technologies shows flexibility and a sense of the future for a
company built on history and workmanship. A golden age for Ghanshyam Das & Sons
Jewellers is on the horizon thanks to the fusion of traditional jewelry workmanship and
cutting-edge technology.

Ans-2

Introduction

The practice of purchasing and selling products and services online, or e-commerce, has
become a crucial component of the world's retail system. E-commerce has seen a
considerable increase in its uptake since the creation and spread of digital payment systems.
By lowering entry barriers, these digital payment initiatives have altered the fundamental
essence of retail in addition to providing a safer, more effective way to conduct business.
Even tiny businesses may now reach a worldwide audience thanks to e-commerce platforms,
which have democratized a market that in the past required major investment for physical
stores. Which retailers stand to earn the most from this paradigm shift is the real question, not
merely how e-commerce helps businesses. The revolutionary impact of e-commerce is
becoming more and more obvious as we go deeper into the e-commerce ecosystem, using a
particular platform as a reference.
Concept and Application:

1. The Evolution of E-Commerce and Digital Payments

E-commerce platforms have assumed a central role in contemporary trade, providing


businesses with a way to escape the constraints of physical locations. The development of
digital payment systems, which have facilitated quick, safe, and smooth online transactions,
is primarily recognized with laying the groundwork for this change. Because of their
extensive product selection, simple navigation, and secure payment options, platforms like
Amazon, for example, have come to be synonymous with online shopping.

2. E-commerce's advantages for retailers

Reach and Accessibility: The ability to reach a global audience is one of the key advantages
of e-commerce platforms. Retailers are no longer restricted by their location. Thanks to
online marketplaces like Amazon, a craftsman in rural India may sell his creations to
someone in New York.

Cost-effective: Traditional retail requires a physical store, staff, utilities, and other expenses.
These overheads are lessened by e-commerce. Retailers can operate from any location, thus
lowering costs.

Data-driven insights are made available to retailers by platforms like Amazon. It can help to
improve product offers and marketing techniques to understand consumer behavior,
preferences, and buying patterns.

Flexible Business Hours: Online shopping is available 24/7. This nonstop business approach
guarantees that sales can be made even when the owner is sleeping.

Inventory management: The capabilities provided by advanced e-commerce systems enable


businesses to keep track of their stock, forecast when they will need to reorder, and even
automate the reordering process.

3. Those Who Gain the Most

While most retailers gain from e-commerce platforms, some benefit more than others.

Small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) benefit greatly from e-commerce platforms
despite previously being constrained by a lack of funding. They can reach a market they
couldn't have with a physical business for a small expenditure.

Sellers of Unique or specialized Products: Online buyers are frequently larger and more
receptive for sellers of unusual or specialized products. For instance, a maker of custom
jewelry can find more customers in international markets than in local ones.
E-commerce platforms are perfect for dropshipping companies. These companies don't
maintain inventories of the goods they offer. Instead, they buy the product from a third party
and have it shipped to the buyer when they sell it.

Sellers of Digital Products: Since digital items don't require delivery, sellers of products like
e-books, online courses, or digital art greatly profit from e-commerce platforms.

4. E-Commerce Platforms Seen Through Amazon's Eyes

Let's concentrate on Amazon, one of the biggest e-commerce sites in the world, to provide a
greater insight.

A Global Marketplace: Because Amazon has operations in many different nations and
provides international delivery for many products, retailers may reach customers all over the
world.

Sellers who use the Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) service are able to store their goods in
Amazon's warehouses. Shipping, packaging, and storage are handled by Amazon. Smaller
shops who might lack the capacity for extensive logistics can particularly benefit from this.

Amazon Prime: Due to the attractiveness of faster shipping for customers, retailers whose
products are available through Prime frequently experience higher sales.

Secure Transactions: Amazon's reliable payment gateway guarantees secure transactions,


fostering consumer confidence and benefiting the merchants.

5. Data Highlighting the Impact

Using evidence from research and Amazon's annual reports:

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) on Amazon: As of my most recent update in


2022, SMEs on Amazon averaged over $3,500 in sales every second, demonstrating the
platform's potential.

Global Reach: More than 86% of India's first-time FBA sellers on Amazon choose to export
their goods, giving them access to marketplaces throughout the world.

Expanding Seller Base: The number of Amazon marketplace sellers who earn over $100,000
has steadily increased year after year, highlighting the platform's potential for profitability.

In a broader sense, the fusion of digital payments with e-commerce has leveled the playing
field. Platforms like Amazon have ushered in an era when success depends more on agility,
quality, and grasp of the digital ecosystem than merely on money and physical presence,
where formerly the retail giants ruled.

Conclusion
The use of digital payments has made e-commerce more than simply a passing fad; it has
fundamentally altered the retail industry. Platforms like [selected platform] are good
examples of how combining technology, logistics, and digital payments can produce a
healthy ecosystem that benefits a variety of merchants. This is a new era, especially for
smaller merchants, where their location or starting money no longer determines their
potential reach. Instead, their success is based on the caliber of their offerings and their
capacity to change with the times. E-commerce platforms and digital payments are two
threads that have woven depth, diversity, and accessibility into the grand fabric of retail
evolution. One can only expect even greater inclusivity as technology develops, giving even
the smallest businesses a chance to market their services and goods on a worldwide scale.

Ans-3.a.

Introduction

Regardless of their size or experience, IT organizations confront a variety of security risks


and weaknesses in today's linked digital environment. Due to limited exposure and
potentially a lack of devoted resources, navigating this complicated landscape becomes
extremely difficult for a young company like Horizon Technology. Understanding and
minimizing these vulnerabilities becomes essential to maintain both their own integrity and
the trust of people they serve when they have a specific project on the horizon and a promise
to their clients.

Concept and Application:

Threats and Weaknesses:

• Phishing Attacks: Cybercriminals may send misleading emails to workers of Horizon in an


effort to get them to divulge private information, such as passwords or client information.

• Ransomware: This category of malicious software aims to prevent users from accessing a
computer system until a ransom is paid.

• Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) assaults: These assaults can overwhelm Horizon's
servers and prevent users from accessing them.

• Insider threats: Unhappy workers or those with bad intentions may abuse their access to the
business's data.

• Unpatched Software: Systems can become exposed to known security flaws if software is
not updated often.

• Physical Threats: Data theft may result from unauthorized physical access to Horizon's
premises.
Security precautions

• Regular Training: By holding regular cybersecurity training sessions, Horizon's staff


members will be more equipped to identify and steer clear of attacks like phishing.

• Backup systems: By routinely preserving important data, the business can avoid being
trapped in a difficult situation in the event of a ransomware attack.

• Firewalls and intrusion detection systems: These technologies are useful for keeping an eye
on and thwarting suspicious activity, which helps to prevent illegal access.

• Regular Software Updates: Updating all programs and operating systems makes sure that
known vulnerabilities are patched.

• Access Control: Insider risks can be reduced by limiting access to sensitive information to
those who need it and routinely checking and upgrading these permissions.

• Implementing visitor records, protected access doors, and surveillance cameras can stop
unlawful physical access.

Conclusion

When Horizon Technology starts its journey in the IT industry, cybersecurity must be given
top priority. The first stage is for them to become aware of the many dangers and weaknesses
they can experience. It's crucial to put in place a strong security structure that includes both
digital and physical safeguards. Furthermore, strengthening the company's defenses will be
accomplished by fostering a culture of security awareness among the workforce. In a field
where dependability and trustworthiness are crucial, Horizon Technology's dedication to
security will not only safeguard its resources and ongoing projects but also strengthen its
standing as a reliable partner in the IT industry.

Ans-3.b.

Introduction

A framework known as the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) outlines the phases of
software development, from the initial feasibility assessment to the maintenance after
deployment. Any IT organization must choose the right SDLC model because it determines
how the project will go. For Horizon Technology, the choice becomes crucial to guarantee
on-time delivery and cost-effectiveness because they have a project that isn't extremely
complex and with reasonably clear criteria.

Concept and Application:

The Waterfall Model seems like a good fit for Horizon Technology given the nature of the
project as mentioned. This is why:
explicit Requirements: The Waterfall Model assumes that every requirement is explicit from
the beginning. This model's linear and sequential phases, which don't need to be revisited,
will be helpful because Horizon's project has a fairly defined set of needs.

Simpleness: The Waterfall Model gives a clear strategy, especially for a young company like
Horizon Technology. Prior to moving on to the next step, each phase must be finished. This
removes any room for ambiguity and makes it simpler for team members to understand and
follow.

Documentation: The Waterfall Model features distinct deliverables for each phase, as well as
a review procedure. This focus on documentation makes sure that everything is documented,
which could be advantageous for Horizon as a new business to ensure they maintain best
practices and records.

Simple to Manage: The Waterfall Model is simple to manage because of its linear and phased
approach. Phases don't cross over, making resource allocation simple and progress
monitoring simple.

A predictable timeframe allows for predictable delivery dates, which is essential for
establishing trust in new client relationships. Once needs are specified, the timeline becomes
reasonably fixed.

Horizon Technology must exercise caution, though. Once work has begun using the Waterfall
Model, adjustments cannot be easily implemented due to its rigidity. Any changes would
necessitate a thorough review, which might be expensive and time-consuming.

Conclusion

Aligning Horizon Technology's project management strategy with the project's needs is
crucial as they enter the vast world of IT solutions. The Waterfall Model provides a structured
and manageable approach ideal for projects with established needs thanks to its distinct,
linear, and sequential phases. While it offers advantages like clarity, predictability, and
simplicity of management, Horizon must make sure that the initial requirements-gathering
step is complete and rigorous to prevent issues later. The SDLC methodology was wisely
chosen, setting the stage for effective project delivery and building the foundation for future
accomplishments.

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