Information Resources

What are information resources? What types of information resources does a business usually need? Why is it important for a general manager to be knowledgeable about information technology?Post a 200-300-word response to the following discussion question by clicking on Reply.

Is open-source software a viable solution? Why or why not? Use the terminology of closed source, source code, and machine code. Explain why open source could be a legitimate alternative but may not be appropriate for a specific application, such as a payroll application

Open-source software can be a viable solution but that depends on what the software is needed for. Working for Verizon Wireless I have quite a bit of experience with open-source software especially with the number of Android operating system devices we sell. Open-source software works for the android platform because it allows a programmer to make his or her own software for an application using an open source code. The downside of having open-source applications (which I see on a daily basis) is that some of the applications are not tested properly before the programmer releases them. Applications can conflict with the operating system or firmware on the device if it is not properly tested. Even when an application is tested there may still be issues with it in the future if there are any kind of firmware or software updates to the device. A closed source program or software would work better for the payroll department because the source code is restricted from everyone (except the few preauthorized people that make updates and changes) and would prevent a random person from making changes that are negative. Closed source software is also beneficial because it ensures the same person or group of people are the only ones to make changes to the program preventing changes that may affect other programs

What are information resources? What types of information resources does a business usually need? Why is it important for a general manager to be knowledgeable about information technology?

There are thousands of information resource methods that we use, they can range from laws and regulations that affect a business or by using the internet to research some information. The Government offers a lot of information on laws and regulations, the internet also has a significant source of information. For example, a business can have an information resource that provides an insight on employees, consumer satisfaction, sales data, or a customers purchasing history. They rely on these resources for information so that they are able to stay competitive against their competitors. Both internal and external information resources will help provide background necessities to evaluate their performances and help with future progress. Knowing the information that is critical to a business will help them analyze it and give them a way to use it effectively. It is important for a manager to be well rounded

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