Research Korner

Mergers

INRODUCTION:             When reviewing the implementation of different business practices popular among firms in the United States, one would see that mergers and acquisitions take a fair share of attention from the US law making body. One would assume that companies might steer clear of such processes mired in legal complexities, but ironically, most companies think that the advantage outweighs the difficulties and other negative implications. In fact, the recent years showed that the “merger wave” in America keeps growing. The increase in merger and acquisition transactions was both in number and financial size. As New York Times has pointed out, the corporate environment of America is being reshaped by merger activities in a way never seen since the wave of industrial takeovers in auto and steel firms occurred at the start of the century. Indeed, this strategy played a major part in the structural changes that US businesses had undergone in the 80s and 90s. The “merger craze” is not only shown by the statistics of recent transactions, it is also evident from the increasing effort of the US government in the enforcement of merger related laws. Throughout the years, the Anti-trust law went through several revisions. How does America really view the merger wave? This is a controversial concept, and as such, there is no uniform opinion, but instead, a diversity of perspectives. In this paper, we will discuss the impact of mergers and acquisition to the workforce, the management, the society, and the government. In addition to that, the way that the mentioned sectors react to the implication would give us an idea, a picture of the stand that the US culture takes with respect to the issue of mergers, acquisition, and takeovers. These three terms are all related to each other.  An introduction to these terms would be a good preparation for the main discussions. Overview of Concepts: MERGERS:             A merger can be defined as a business strategy by which two companies forms an agreement to co-equally integrate their operations. With co-equally, it is implied that after the integration, the individual firms would both be disassociated with the previous identity and become identified with the resulting

Mergers

INRODUCTION: When reviewing the implementation of different business practices popular among firms in the Un...

INDUSTRIAL CAPITALISM AND EARLY UNIONISM, 1850-1880

Industrial Capitalism and Early Unionism, 1850-1880   Summary of Articles The first article entitled “The Honest Workingman and Workers’ Control…” specifies the power and the role of skilled workers during the nineteenth century. The author explained in the article that during this period, skilled workers possess the right and the power to dictate and to influence the nature of their work in all its aspects, including recruitment, wages, training, use of machines, and in the work itself. In this regard, skilled workers are referred to as “autonomous workers” who have significant control over the quantity and quality of their work and their product (, 1904). In the long run, due to the results of the workers’ actions, they have decided to cooperate and to function under the governance of unions. The second article is entitled, “Joe Beef of Montreal”, which describes the significant role played by Joe Beef or Charles McKierman in the live of labouring men of Montreal. The tavern was a significant element in this article, as it shows the connection between drinking and the working life of the labouring class during that time. In addition, this article was also successful in showing and depicting the difference between the lives of middle class and the working class men. In the previous article, it has been mentioned that in the long run, the skilled workers cooperated with labour unions to be able to govern their working conditions. Similarly, Joe Beef and his tavern were also able to reinforce mutual responsibility in both the skilled and unskilled workers (, 1981-82) during that time through a culture that helped unify the working class. The third article entitled, “After the Fur Trade”, emphasizes the significant roles the aborigines played in the development of capitalism in British Columbia. The article depicts the interest of the aborigines with the wage-labour economy during that time, which is related to the concept of the “potlatch” system of the aborigines. Potlatch, as defined by  (1992), refers to the different ceremonies among the aborigines that included feasting, dancing, and giving of gifts to all in attendance, and through this ceremony, the hereditary status and rights to resources of a particular family or individual are maintained. The aborigines have observed that members of tribes participating in the wage-labour economy, including the fur trade are able to obtain objects and wages that somehow determine their status in the tribe. In one way or another, the capitalists during that time was able to benefit from the situation, as they are encouraging more aborigines to work for their factories, such as sawmills and canneries. This article was also successful in informing its readers of the advanced skills of the aborigines, who are able to combine seasonal wage labour with economic cycles. Moreover, the article was also able to emphasize the gender roles of aborigines, which is characterized by division of labour. In terms of wage-labour, both men and women work for factories, along with other individuals from other nations.   Comparison and Contrast of the Arguments             Although the three articles tackled topics related to industrial capitalism and labour unions, each of the articles has separate topics and issues to emphasize. Both the first and second article talked about the rights of workers during that period. However, the first article emphasized the powers of skilled workers over their work and their productivity, while the second article emphasized the unequal rights and privileges skilled and unskilled workers obtain from their work. However, despite this difference, three similarities can be detected. First similarity of the two articles is the emphasis on unification of principles, where in the first article, the power of the skilled workers was tamed by the unions, which enabled them to follow the rules, while in the second article, a single man, Joe Beef, was able to unify both the skilled and unskilled workers through the concept of mutual responsibility. Second similarity of the two articles is the emphasis on the male workforce, disregarding the women who participated in the wage-labour economy. Both the articles stressed that the majority of the working class during that time are comprised by the male gender, as they are the ones capable of working on physical jobs, such as mining and moulding. The third similarity between the first two articles is the emphasis on the relationship of drinking as part of the practice of the working class. In this regard, Joe’s tavern and the factory of the skilled workers play a significant role, as these places are the venues for skilled and unskilled workers to have fun and to voice out their complaints regarding their work and their lives.             In relation to the third article, it has been able to emphasize the role played by capitalism in providing work for the aborigines. However, this aspect becomes similar to the other two articles, as capitalism serves to be the driving force of the different factories in the manufacturing industries during that time, which helped provide wages and work to the working class. However, despite this similarity, two specific differences of the third article to the other two can be pointed out. First difference is the fact that the third article emphasized the indigenous culture of the aborigines, which played a particular role in the aborigines’ participation in the wage-labour economy. In this regard, the concept of the “potlatch” becomes an important influence to take note of because this encouraged the aborigines to earn more to be able to maintain a high status in their tribe, which was not the kind of influence that served as the driving force for the skilled workers in the first two articles. The second difference is the particular importance and participation of women in the wage-labour economy, which was not the case in the first two articles. In the third article, the author was able to emphasize that because the aborigines pay significant attention to division of labour, women during that time was also able to work in factories, such as sawmills and canneries, regardless of their gender. In this regard, the aborigines have a high regard of the roles that women play in their society or tribe, which is totally different from industrial societies described in the first two articles.             In terms of argument, all three articles are able to emphasize that capitalism fueled the wage-labour economy in the country during that period. The arising industrial revolution and development of machineries and other manufacturing equipments during that time served as the driving force for the change in the strategies of the working class. The gradual shift of the economies from agricultural to industrial may somehow determined the social status of the working class, including other members in the society. In addition to this, the role of the church was also significant in the development of industrial capitalism and the wage-labour economy, as the church used the influence of faith and religion in order to persuade many to work. On the contrary, the first two articles are more similar in terms of the location or society compared to the third article. The first two articles focused on the industrial society, while the third article focused on the indigenous communities of the aborigines. In the last article, culture and belief were emphasized to be the driving force for the aborigines to participate in the wage-labour economy and capitalism.     Opinion on the Articles             With this, in my opinion, I believe that in relation to capitalism and the wage-labour economy, the third article on the aborigines was the article that made a better argument. This is because the author gave particular importance to the group of individuals that usually experience discrimination in the society. The author was also able to indirectly emphasize that because of their lack of formal education, these groups of people are the ones being used by capitalists for their self-interests. As stated in the article, the capitalists had the greatest idea of obtaining beaver and other animal fur from the aborigines when they accepted “strange” things from the colonizers, such as knives and other metal objects. In this regard, the colonizers used these objects as offerings in place of the fur, which during that time is considered a luxury and status quo item. From this, it can be observed that the colonizers abused the skills and ignorance of the aborigines. In addition, due also to the lack of their formal education and understanding of how things work in the industrial and advanced society, the skills and labour of the aborigines are being abused by paying them less than they deserve. Because of their cheap labor, capitalists are able to obtain and profit much higher from the trade. With this, I believe that the third article was able to serve as a good eye opener for its readers, in realizing that these situations can still be observed in the contemporary society despite the extensive use of technology.             Based on my analysis, comparison of the three articles is not as difficult, as they provide significant similarities and differences that can be detected and determined through in-depth understanding of the events that happened in the cultural history of Canada. Comparison of the three articles was challenging enough to impart additional knowledge on my part, thus, further developing my critical and analytical thinking skills. Thus, in this regard, although challenging, comparison of the articles provided more benefits than difficulties.               References

INDUSTRIAL CAPITALISM AND EARLY UNIONISM, 1850-1880

Industrial Capitalism and Early Unionism, 1850-1880 Summary of Articles The first article entitled “The Honest Workingman and Wor...

A Child’s Profile Based on Observation

A Child’s Profile Based on Observation Introduction In the child’s developing stage, it is better that the mother or both of the parents is guiding their child to achieve the mind and body development. Through the encouragement of the pediatricians, the parents are aware about the conditions of their child. The period where the child is starting to discover his abilities is considered as one of the crucial parts of his full development and developing his other potentials. During the early childhood that usually ranges in the age 18 months and below, there is an early detection of the capability and incapability of the child that is usually seen in the motor skills of the child. Chosen Method: Gross Motor Skills The motor skills are actions that involve the movement of the body. The motor skills are usually divided in to two groups which are the fine motor skills and the gross motor skills. In the first definition, the fine motors can be described as the movement of the body in smaller actions such as the movements of the hands, wrists, fingers, toes, lips, and tongue. Meanwhile, the gross motor skills, which is also the applied method in the observing a child, can be describe as the counterpart of the fine motor skills. Meaning, the gross motor is the movement of the body which includes the large muscles such as the arms, legs, feet, or the entire body. Both of the motor skills are usually develop together because there are many activities that a child alone or with the guidance of the parents can do. The reason on choosing the gross motor skills is for that it creates a big impression on the side of the observer. The gross motor skills are obvious in the child’s actions and it can develop over a relatively short period of time. Because most of the development occurs during childhood, there is a chance or possibility that the gross motor skills my not develop well. Developmental Observation All children develop the gross motor skills at different times. Some children might be advanced in learning those skills. However, the parents should be aware and be on concern when the children as falling significantly below their age level. Therefore, there is a necessary guideline for the parents to determine that their child is going well with the other children. During the observation of a girl in the playschool, there is an obvious gross motor skill that the girl exerted. She is only 16 months old and very active in play. The young complete withdraw herself from the support of the other people like her mother or the playschool teachers. Often, this girl can’t stand too long and wants to sit or roll over for the things within her reach. When she starts to stoop to pick up toys she is very concern on how she will stand. If there is an available table or chair, she will use it as a support. Her favorite play is throwing or rolling the ball and then give that sweet smile whenever she get it back in her grasp. In most of her play, she is very irritable when someone caught her favorite ball. But she never cries if there is some kid that bumps on her. The most significant action she does during her play time is to carry the things while walking to find a good place for her. Based on her actions, the young has her own ideas in judging on finding the suitable place for her to play.     Analysis The study of the young girl’s gross motor skills demonstrated the competence in a variety of the activities she did during her playtime. Most of her movements are coordinated with the use of her large muscles as if it is required in her playing. In an in-depth sense, the young girl is unaware that she combined several motor skills in an organized way just to satisfy the performance in the activities. It is seen whenever the girl picked up her toys, throw the ball and catch it again, and walking while carrying her toys. The physical activity that a child is engaged to is sometimes based on her own observation of the other children or initiated of the teachers. On the behavior of the child, she only acts based on her environment or through her body control. She is very aware about the things in her environment and coordinated every situation on her large-muscle movements. From there, the young girl can deliver the activities well and satisfy her need for play. The behaviors or the way she act only emphasized her age. The young girl, as well as the other children, loves to play and can get mad if the things they want is not in their hand. Therefore, the young girl is using her muscles, bending her knees, and extending her arm to reach for her favorite toy. It is normal for the children to be noisy and play with the other kids, but the 16-month old girl can play alone. This is because her attention is derived on her toy and the young girl doesn’t want to play along with the kids in the place where she feels uncomfortable.     Recommendation and Conclusion Based on the observation of the child’s development, there are equivalent skills that a child of should perform. In this idea, the collaboration of the parents should provide the children with opportunities to engage in a wide variety of gross-motor activities to learn the full control of her body. One of the major tasks in gross motor development is locomotion or the ability to move from one place to another. In the early exposure of the child in the different skills, the needs are recognized especially on those children that really needs a special attention. The gross motor is important for the children that have problems such as in hearing or sight. In the early guidance of these children, they can support themselves even if their family is not in their side to answer their needs.

A Child’s Profile Based on Observation

A Child’s Profile Based on Observation Introduction In the child’s developing stage, it is better that the mother or both of the paren...

Multiple Choice Test for Management Information Systems

(CHAPTER 1-4) MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEMS       INSTRUCTIONS TO THE CANDIDATES:   Please carefully read the following questions and circle/tick your correct answer in the answer sheet provided in this Study Guide.  Give yourself time for rechecking after completion of test.     1. Information is:   a.        the accumulation of raw data. b.        the way we analyze problems. c.        the best form of knowledge. d.       Data shaped into meaningful form. e.        Output that is returned to appropriate members of the organization, which allows them to correct future input.         2. _______________________ systems depend on fixed definitions of data and procedures form collecting, storing disseminating, and using the data.   a.       Informal b.      Modern c.       Traditional d.      Formal e.       Bureaucratic            3. Promoting the organization’s products and services is a business function of   a.       manufacturing and production b.      finance c.       human resources d.      sales and marketing e.       accounting             4. Information systems are _______________________ systems.   a.       behavioral b.      sociotechnical c.       technical d.      optimizing e.       efficient         5. E-commerce and the use of Internet technology are driving the move toward:   a.       new tax laws. b.      fiber-optic networks worldwide. c.       multinational organizations. d.      satellite communications systems. e.       digital firms.         6. The power of computer hardware and software has grown much more rapidly than:   a.       the ability of organizations to purchase the technology b.      the ability of organizations to apply and use the technology c.       worldwide internet usage d.      governments can control e.       telecommunications technologies         7. Information systems are an outcome of culture, politics, work flows, standard operating procedures and.   a.       computer professionals. b.      organizational structure c.       economic need. d.      the internet e.       telecommunications requirements         8. Integrating systems for different organizational levels and functions to freely exchange information:   a.       is not a requirement of the digital firm. b.      will require the use of the mainframe system. c.       can be technologically difficult and costly. d.      has always been part of bureaucratic policy. e.       does not require the managers be retrained.                 9. Market research and pricing are functions of   a.       finance/accounting systems. b.      human resources systems c.       manufacturing/production systems d.      sales marketing systems e.       decision support systems         10. The interaction between information technology and organizations is very complex and is influenced by a great many mediating factors, including the organization structure, standard operating procedures, politics, culture, management decisions and:   a.       the surrounding environment. b.      the economic basis of the company c.       the availability of trained employers d.      the cash flow within the company e.       the microeconomic definition of the specific organization         11. One reason Detroit automakers have between slow to adopt Japanese mass-production method is that:   <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph"> they cannot change the design of their manufacturing plants.</li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph"> they have difficulty in changing standard operating procedures.</li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph"> U.S workers are much more highly paid</li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph"> U.S workers do not adapt well to the Japanese procedures.</li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph"> such changes have not been necessary.</li>         12. One way in which the organization affects information technology is through the decisions that it makes about:   a.       how often equipment will be replaced. b.      whether computer expenditures are considered to be capital expenditures, or not. c.       who will design, build, and maintain the organization’s IT infrastructure. d.      how much influence company culture will have on technological decisions. e.       the formal organizational unit or function responsible for technology services.         13. In the early years, the information systems group was composed mostly of:   a.       systems analysts. b.      mid-level managers. c.       end users. d.      clerical workers. e.       programmers.             14. According to the Mintzberg model of management, decisional roles are:   a.       where managers initiate activities, handle disturbances, allocate resources, and negotiate conflict. b.      where managers act as figureheads and leaders for the organization.  c.       where managers act as a liaison, disseminating and allocating resources. d.      the expectations of the activities that managers should perform in an organization. e.       where managers act as the nerve centers of their organizations, receiving and disseminating critical facts.         15. The ______________________ model is the model used to describe the interaction of external influences, specifically threats and opportunities, that affect an organization’s strategy and ability to compete.   a.       network economics b.      competitive forces c.       strategic transitions d.      environmental conditions e.       interactive economics         16.     Digital firms require:   a.       massive computer capacities. b.      deep pockets. c.       new organizational designs and management processes. d.      exceptionally flexible transaction processing systems. e.       networks that bypass traditional distribution channels.         17. New levels of richness and reach are enabled on the Internet by  _____________   a.       the explosion of connectivity. b.      easier coordination of function. c.       the dissemination of standards. d.      a and c e.       b and c         18. Yahoo! is an example of:   a.       a search engine. b.      a portal. c.       a Web browser. d.      a syndicator. e.       a directory.                   19. Members of the organization use intranets to create:   a.       a collaborative environment. b.      new services for customers. c.       a supply chain. d.      an organization requiring fewer middle managers. e.       better operations control.         20. Companies pursuing electronic commerce must be especially vigilant about:   a.       maintaining updated transaction files. b.      establishing a well-designed Web site. c.       maintaining a shopping cart and online credit transactions. d.      establishing trust, security, and consumer privacy. e.       constantly updating their business plan.         21. An example of Web-based supply chain management is:   a.       the use of intranet collaboration tools for contact management, discussion forums, document management, and calendars. b.      the ability to monitor un-invoiced income or outstanding debt each day. c.       the provision of data on quality measurements, such as defects and rejects, as well as maintenance and training schedules. d.      allowing employees to manage their own health and pension benefits accounts. e.       using a Web-based forecast to maximize the profitability of shelf space for the company’s products.   22 Internet-based systems are more vulnerable to penetration by outsiders than private networks because:   a.   so many people see each message. b.   most Internet companies do not have adequate firewalls. c.   the Internet was designed as an open environment. d.   a computer in the home environment is insecure. e.   it is international.     23 Manufacturing and production data from disparate systems can coordinate manufacturing and production processes using the common platform created by:   a.   Internet technology. b.   supply chain logistics. c.   extranets. d.   intranets. e.   telecommunications systems.       24 The _________________________ environment for electronic commerce has not been fully established.   a.   linguistic b.   coding c.   satellite d.   legal and regulatory e.   administrative and merchandising               25 Many virtual storefront organizations do not provide finances in the business plan to provide for:   a.   new telecommunications lines. b.   additional shipping expenses and skilled Web staff. c.   the necessary software. d.   the unexpected increase in orders. e.   the consulting expenses connected with an ISP.             (CHAPTER 5-8) MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEMS   INSTRUCTIONS TO THE CANDIDATES:   Please carefully read the following questions and circle/tick your correct answer in the answer sheet provided in this Study Guide.  Give yourself time for rechecking after completion of test.     1. Information technology and information systems raise new ethical questions for both individuals and societies because:   a.   they are global in their effects. b.   they are difficult for governments to regulate. c.   so few people understand them. d.   they create opportunities for intense social change. e.   they change so quickly.     2. Many Web sites allow the Internet advertising broker DoubleClick to:   a.   gather cookies from their site in return for advertisements on other sites based on the visitor profile created. b.   access their sales figures. c.   mine large pools of data they have collected in their business endeavors. d.   place advertisements for other organizations on their Web site. e.   track the activities of their visitors in exchange for revenue from advertisements based on visitor information.     3. The Federal Trade Commission Fair Information Practice principle of Access/Participation states that:   a.   customers must be allowed to choose how their information will be used for secondary purposes other than the supporting transaction, including internal use and transfer to third parties. b.   data collectors must take responsible steps to assure that consumer information is accurate and secure from unauthorized use. c.   there is a mechanism in place to enforce FIP principles. d.   Web sites must disclose their information practices before collecting data. e.   consumers should be able to review and contest the accuracy and completeness of data collected about them in a timely, inexpensive process.     4. Cookies are stored:   a.   on the user’s hard drive. b.   on the Web site. c.   in a temporary file in the memory of the user’s computer. d.   at the ISP. e.   on the browser.     5. The limitation of trade secret protection is that although virtually all software programs of any complexity contain unique elements of some sort, it is difficult to prevent the ideas in the work from falling into the public domain:   a.   when the courts become involved. b.   when hackers are able to break into the source code. c.   when the software is widely distributed. d.   when a new version of the software is released. e.   because there are no sanctions on copying software.     6. In general, it is very difficult to hold software producers liable for their software products when those products are considered to be:   a.   digital shareware. b.   common carriers. c.   services. d.   non-essential systems. e.   like books.     7. Information, knowledge, computers, and access to these resources through educational institutions in public libraries are inequitably distributed:   a.   because of industrial competition. b.   along ethnic and social class lines. c.   only in the United States. d.   in every country but the United States. e.   because it is difficult to learn to use software.     8. A microsecond is:   a.   1/1,000 second. b.   1/1,000,000 second. c.   1/10,000,000 second. d.   1/1,000,000,000 second. e.   1/1,000,000,000,000 second.     9. Batch processing is a method of collecting and processing data in which transactions:   a.   are accomplished by one large central computer. b.   are accumulated and stored until a specified time when it is convenient or necessary to process them as a group. c.   are entered directly into the computer system and processed immediately. d.   are processed among multiple computers linked by communications network. e.   are technologies for transferring audio and video data to be processed as a steady and continuous stream as they are downloaded from the Web.     10. The interface component in client/server computing is:   a.   the way in which the various applications connect with each other. b.   a feature of thin client computing. c.   necessary only if a mainframe is involved. d.   how the application appears visually to the user. e.   shaped by the organization’s business rules.     11. Virtual storage:   a.   allows many programs to share a computer system’s resources at any one time through concurrent use of the CPU. b.   links together two or more CPUs to work in parallel in a single computer system. c.   handles programs more efficiently by breaking down the programs into tiny sections that are ready to use memory only when needed. d.   limits the size of the program in memory to 640 kB. e.   is an arrangement permitting many users to be connected to a CPU          simultaneously     12. FORTRAN:   a.   is a programming language developed for scientific and mathematical applications. b.   combines machine portability with tight control and efficient use of computer resources. c.   can process large data files with alphanumeric characters. d.   is a programming language consisting of the ones and zeros of binary code. e.   is object-oriented.     13. Software that functions as a translation layer between two disparate applications so they can work together is called:   a.   integration software.  b.   groupware. c.   extensible software. d.   middleware. e.   translation software.     14. A student, an order, and a book are all examples of a(n):   a.   attribute. b.   key field. c.   field. d.   entity. e.   file.     15. The older logical database model that is useful for depicting many-to-many relationships is the:   a.   hierarchical DBMS. b.   SQL DBMS. c.   relational DBMS. d.   network DBMS. e.   object-oriented DBMS.     16. Oracle Lite is a(n):   a.   DBMS for small handheld computing devices. b.   Internet DBMS. c.   mainframe relational DBMS. d.   DBMS for midrange computers. e.   PC relational DBMS.     17. The conceptual design of the database shows the database from a(n):   a.   business perspective. b.   direct access perspective. c.   program perspective. d.   object-oriented perspective e.   management perspective.     18. One advantage to a hypermedia database is that:   a.   it is always stored on the Internet. b.   the nodes can be accessed in any order. c.   it is written in HTML. d.   it is much more easily understood by outside users. e.   it contains only one type of data.     19. Using object-oriented extensions to existing relational DBMS is one way to create a(n):   a.   system of easily accessible reports. b.   Internet warehouse. c.   data mart. d.   hybrid DBMS. e.   structured query language.     20. Balancing the need to control mushrooming network costs and _______________ is a central management concern.   a.   technology requirements b.   ensure network reliability and availability c.   developmental planning d.   user requirements e.   Internet capabilities     21 Analog signals are used to handle voice communications and:   a.   channels. b.   graphics data. c.   large volumes of data quickly. d.   reflect variations in pitch. e.   light pulses.     22. A smart phone is:   a.   a   small,  pen-based,  handheld  computer  with  built-in  wireless telecommunications b.   a technology that enables two-way transmission of data files cheaply and efficiently. c.   a wireless phone with voice, text, and Internet capabilities. d.   a technology that uses lower power, higher frequency radio waves than cellular technology and so can be used with smaller sized telephones. e.   a device that transmits voice or data, using radio waves to communicate with radio antennas placed within adjacent geographic areas called cells.     23. A front-end processor is a:   a.   specialized computer that supervises communications traffic between the CPU and the peripheral devices in the telecommunications system. b.   device that carries the telecommunication message in analog form for packet distribution. c.   device that enables a single communications channel to carry data transmissions from multiple sources simultaneously. d.   special purpose computer dedicated to managing communications for the host computer in the network. e.   telecommunications computer that collects and temporarily stores messages from terminals for batch transmission to the host computer.     24. A LAN:   a.   is a central switching system that handles a firm’s voice and digital communications. b.   links all computers in a closed loop in a manner that passes data in one direction from one computer to another. c.   links all computers and other devices to a central host computer, through which all communications must pass. d.   connects computers and peripheral devices located close to each other, often in the same building. e.   links a number of computers by a single circuit with all messages broadcast to the entire network.     25. Instruction delivered through purely digital technology is called:   a.   e-learning. b.   asynchronous learning. c.   distance learning. d.   synchronous learning. e.   electronic data interchange.                              (CHAPTER 9-12)     INSTRUCTIONS TO THE CANDIDATES:   Please carefully read the following questions and circle/tick your correct answer in the answer sheet provided in this Study Guide.  Give yourself time for rechecking after completion of test.   1 1.                 The new IT infrastructure provides a broad platform for electronic commerce, electronic business, and the emerging digital firm by:   a.       using the Web as a base. b.      allowing open systems. c.       providing ISPs. d.      enabling companies to radically reduce their agency and transaction costs. e.       developing virtual private networks.                    2.     Open systems promote connectivity because:   a.       they enable disparate systems and services to work together. b.      they transfer all packets indiscriminately, without the need for direction. c.       they do not require security. d.      they are easy to connect to each other. e.       they encrypt all files passing through the network.     3.     The Internet is perhaps the most well-known, and the largest, implementation of:   a.       EDI. b.      anarchy within communications. c.       OSI. d.      cooperation between large business organizations. e.       internetworking.     4.   Personalized m-commerce services:   a.       provide instant messaging, e-mail, searching for a movie or restaurant using a cell phone or handheld PDA. b.      search for the best price of an item using a cell phone and allow the user to buy it in a physical store or on the Web. c.       provide graphics and information on consumer items. d.      anticipate what you want based on your location or data profile. e.       charge an individual fee per transaction.     5. .4.   Intranets use ___________________ to program Web pages and to establish dynamic, point-and-click hypertext links to other pages.   a.       a wireless web b.      WAP c.       HTML d.      multicasting e.       URLs     6.   An ISP is:   a.       the address of a specific resource on the Internet. b.      an organization that sells temporary Internet connections to subscribers. c.       a markup language for wireless Web sites, optimized for tiny displays. d.      the conversion of domain names to their IP addresses. e.       a system of protocols and technologies that lets cell phones and other wireless devices with tiny displays, low-bandwidth connections, and minimal memory access Web-based information and services     7.     A DNS enables/is   a.       the address of a specific resource on the Internet b.      an organization that sells temporary Internet connections to subscribers. c.       a markup language for wireless web sites, optimized for tiny displays. d.      the conversion of domain names to their IP addresses. e.       a system of protocols and technologies that lets cell phones and other wireless devices with tiny displays, lobe-bandwidth connections, and minimal memory access Web-based information and services     8.   Many AI applications improve performance through trial and error and:   a.       can learn to think like a human being. b.      are not effective. c.       are too complicated to keep up. d.      these applications are called expert systems. e.       may not be reliable enough for mission-critical problems. 9.             Group collaboration systems:   a.       share knowledge. b.      capture and codify knowledge. c.       schedule knowledge. d.      distribute knowledge. e.       create knowledge.     10. 1.        Those who primarily process create knowledge and information are called:   a.       group collaborators. b.      knowledge workers. c.       information workers. d.      librarians. e.data workers.     11. f.         CAD/CAM workstations:   a.       provide engineers, designers, and factory managers with precise control over industrial design and manufacturing. b.      provide an important source of expertise for organizations. c.       allow groups to work together on documents. d.      are used in the financial sector to analyze trading situations instantly. e.       provide architects, engineers, and medical workers with precise simulations of objects. g.          12. h.        LotusNotes and OpenText Livelink are examples of:   a.            customized software. b.           VRML. c.            investment software. d.           Web tools.  e.            proprietary groupware. i.            13. j.          The terms used in fuzzy logic are called:   a.          membership functions. b.          non-precise definitions. c.          oorts. d.         ranges. e.       eliminatory phrases. f.               14. g.            Even if a problem can be addressed by an information system, senior management:   a.          may not be able to use one. b.          may not have a complete data warehouse. c.          may not be able to read the reports generated. d.         may not fully understand its actual information needs. e.          may decide that graphics are better. h.              15. i.              Model-driven DSS were often developed by:   a.          senior managers in IS. b.          cross-divisional central management teams. c.          accident. d.         contracted consultants from outside the organization itself. e.    groups not under central information system control. a.              16. b.            Tools for voting or setting priorities in a GDSS:   a.            facilitate the organized integration and synthesis of ideas generated during brainstorming.  b.           document group agreement on definitions of words and terms central to the projects. c.            use structured approaches to evaluate the impact of an emerging proposal on the organization. d.           aid the organizers in premeeting planning by identifying issues of concern. e.            Make available a range of methods for setting priorities or voting. c.              17. d.           Group interaction includes:   a.            session planning, organizational memory, personal productivity, and enterprise analysis. b.           idea generation, complex problems, and large groups. c.            idea generation, idea organization, prioritizing, and policy development. d.           session planning, prioritizing, policy development, and organizational memory. e.            idea generation, personal productivity, enterprise analysis, and policy development. e.              18. f.             One problem with understanding the value of GDSS is their:   a.                    availability and cost. b.                    complexity. c.                    need for organizational memory. d.                   need for a facilitator.   e.           method of generating ideas. g.              19. h.            The components of the DSS are the:   a.                    internal database, external database, and analysis tools. b.                    data visualization tools, software, and graphics capabilities. c.                    database, graphics capabilities, and analysis tools. d.                   analysis tools, software, and database.                 e.         database, software system, and user interface. i.                20.   When systems are used to strengthen the wrong business model or business processes,:   a.                    the resulting information system is very difficult to analyze. b.                    the resulting system has no impact on the firm’s performance. c.                    the business becomes more efficient doing what it shouldn’t do. d.                   organizational change does not occur. e.             The cost increases geometrically. j.                21. k.              Two principal methodologies for establishing the essential information requirements of the organization as a whole are:   a.                    personal interviews and critical success factors. b.                    enterprise analysis and systems analysis. c.                    object-oriented design and systems analysis. d.                   personal interviews and a review of historical data. e.                    enterprise analysis and critical success factors.   22. l.              The most common form of IT-enabled organizational change is:   a.                    rationalization of procedures. b.                    paradigm shifts. c.                    accessibility and empowerment. d.                   automation. e.                    business process reengineering. m.            23. n.            When the nature of the organization itself is radically reconceptualized, the result is:   a.                    rationalization of procedures. b.                    paradigm shifts. c.                    accessibility and empowerment. d.                   automation.   e.          business process reengineering. o.              24. p.            In terms of percentages, the maintenance phase devotes approximately _____ percent to changes in data, files, reports, hardware, or system software; a.              20 b.             25 c.              40 d.             35 e.              60 q.              25. r.             WSDL:   a.                    is a common framework for describing the tasks performed by a Web service so that it can be used by other applications. b.                    is a visually-oriented programming language. c.                    allows a Web service to be listed in the directory of Web services so that it can be easily located. d.                   is object-oriented and has open architecture. e.                    is a set of rules that allows applications to pass data and instructions to one another.                                                        (CHAPTER 13-15)   INSTRUCTIONS TO THE CANDIDATES:   Please carefully read the following questions and circle/tick your correct answer in the answer sheet provided in this Study Guide.  Give yourself time for rechecking after completion of test.   1.        The worth of systems from a financial perspective essentially revolves around the question of:   a.   systems ownership. b.   information requirements. c.   multiyear financial models. d.   change management. e.   return on invested capital.   2.        Transaction and clerical systems that displace labor and save space always produce more measurable, tangible benefits than management information systems, decision-support systems, or computer-supported collaborative work systems,:   a.   which allow a broader context of business analysis. b.   which give financial models an application bias. c.   which require a lower rate of technological change. d.   which mean that intangibles can be given monetary value. e.   which have expected lives of many years.   3.        The payback period in years is found by the formula:   a.   (Total benefits – Total cost – Depreciation)/Useful life b.   Present value of cash inflows/Investment c.   Payment * (1 –(1 + interest)-n)/Interest d.   Net benefit/Total initial investment e.   Original investment/Annual net cash inflow   4.        The present value is found by the formula:   a.   (Total benefits – Total cost – Depreciation)/Useful life b.   Present value of cash inflows/Investment c.   Payment * (1 –(1 + interest)-n)/Interest d.   Net benefit/Total initial investment e.   Original investment/Annual net cash inflow = Number of years for repayment   5.        A weakness of the net present value is that:   a.   it provides no measure of profitability. b.   it cannot be used to rank several projects for comparison. c.   it ignores the disposal value of the computer systems. d.   it cannot calculate a profitability index. e.   it can ignore the time value of money.   6.        The portfolio analysis:   a.   uses capital budgeting analysis principles. b.   determines the overall direction of systems development. c.   is the agreement on the criteria used to make a choice amongst several different projects. d.   can be described as having a certain profile of risk and benefit to the firm. e.   is not used by firms in non-information-intensive industries.   7.        If the budget is strained from the very beginning, toward the end of the project there will likely be insufficient funds for:   a.   training and documentation. b.   timely completion and procedural planning. c.   the necessary hardware and software. d.   unplanned-for structural changes. e.   new employees to manage the new technologies.   8.        Most applications are designed, planned, and created by persons:   a.   who do not understand the company substructure. b.   with no prior experience in the application area. c.   who are not stakeholders. d.   who are employed for the development of only that system. e.   who are managers, not end users.   9.        Traditionally, the area of _____________________ has been neglected in systems design and analysis activities.   a.   end-user training b.   organizational impact analysis c.   change management d.   power relationships within the organization e.   procedural documentation   10.    Automated data are more susceptible to destruction, fraud, error, and misuse because information systems concentrate data in computer files that:   a.   are usually bound up in legacy systems that are difficult to access and difficult to correct in case of error. b.   are not secure because the technology to secure them did not exist at the time the files were created. c.   have the potential to be accessed by large numbers of people and by groups outside of the organization. d.   are frequently available on the Internet. e.   are written in obsolete programming languages.   11.    Code Red and Nimda are:   a.   viruses written in script programming languages that use Microsoft Outlook to spread to other systems. b.   “worm” type viruses that arrive attached to e-mail and spread from computer to computer. c.   “multipartite” viruses that can infect files as well as the boot sector of the hard drive. d.   viruses that make a clicking sound with each keystroke on the 18th day of the month. e.   macro viruses existing inside executable programs called macros.   12.    The most expensive phase of the system development process is:   a.   end-user training. b.   implementation. c.   testing. d.   maintenance. e.   systems design.   13.    General controls:   a.   are unique to each computer program. b.   ensure that data files on either disk or tape are not subject to unauthorized access, change, or destruction. c.   establish a framework for controlling the design, security, and use of computer programs throughout the organization. d.   audit the systems development process. e.   are formalized standards, rules, procedures, and disciplines that ensure that the organization’s controls are properly executed and enforced.   14.    Hardware controls:   a.   oversee the work of the computer department to ensure that programmed procedures are consistently and correctly applied to the storage and processing of data. b.   ensure that computer hardware is physically secure and check for equipment malfunction. c.   audit the systems development process at various points to ensure that the processes are properly controlled and managed. d.   monitor the use of system software and prevent unauthorized access to software programs, systems software and computer programs. e.   ensure that valuable business data files on either disk or tape are not subject to unauthorized access, change, or destruction while they are in use or in storage.   15.    Software controls:   a.   oversee the work of the computer department to ensure that programmed procedures are consistently and correctly applied to the storage and processing of data. b.   ensure that computer hardware is physically secure and check for equipment malfunction. c.   audit the systems development process at various points to ensure that the processes are properly controlled and managed. d.   monitor the use of system software and prevent unauthorized access to software programs, systems software and computer programs. e.   ensure that valuable business data files on either disk or tape are not subject to unauthorized access, change, or destruction while they are in use or in storage.     16.    In a risk assessment, multiplying the average loss for each exposure by its probability of occurrence gives the:   a.   loss range. b.   annual loss. c.   prediction of vulnerability. d.   threat ranking. e.   exposure capability.   17.    A selection construct is:   a.   the single step or action in the logic of a program that does not depend on the existence of any condition. b.   a logical unit of a program that performs one or several functions. c.   the logic pattern in programming where a stated condition determines which of two alternative actions can be taken. d.   the basic control structure that has only one entry point and one exit point. e.   the logic pattern in programming where certain actions are repeated until a specified condition occurs or until certain conditions are met.   18.    The sequence construct is:   a.   the single step or action in the logic of a program that does not depend on the existence of any condition. b.   a logical unit of a program that performs one or several functions. c.   the logic pattern in programming where a stated condition determines which of two alternative actions can be taken. d.   the basic control structure that has only one entry point and one exit point. e.   the logic pattern in programming where certain actions are repeated until a specified condition occurs or until certain conditions are met.   19.    In moving to a global business, the challenge for management is to:   a.   standardize global systems, and consolidate reporting. b.   create SAP enterprise software and a frame relay network. c.   facilitate global operations, and reduce costs. d.   set standards, and develop global business processes. e.   maintain global headquarters, business processes, and subsidiaries.   20.    Two powerful worldwide changes driven by advances in information technology that have transformed the business environment and post new challenges for management are:   a.   the creation of the NASA satellite system. b.   the transformation of industrial economies to knowledge-and information-based economies. c.   the emergence of the global economy and a global world order. d.   b and c only e.   a, b and c   21.    In terms of global business strategy and structure, a transnational company will use a policy of:   a.   mixed sales and marketing, with centralized production, accounting, human resources, and strategic management. b.   coordinated production, accounting, marketing, human resources, and strategic management. c.   coordinated production, accounting, human resources, with centralized strategic management, and marketing. d.   dispersed production and marketing, with centralized accounting, human resources and strategic management. e.   coordinated production, marketing, human resources, and strategic management, with dispersed production.   22.    Decentralized systems are those in which:   a.   development occurs at the home base and operations are handed over to autonomous units in foreign locations. b.   each foreign unit designs its own unique solutions and systems. c.   systems development and operations occur in an integrated and coordinated fashion across all units. d.   foreign units design the solutions and systems that are used at the domestic home base. e.   systems development and operations occur totally at the domestic home base.   23.    Two of the management challenges in developing global systems are listed in your text as:   a.   managing the privacy concerns of different countries and coordinating applications development. b.   creating a financial structure that will operate internationally and managing the privacy concerns of different countries. c.   subordination of software releases and managing the privacy concerns of different countries. d.   the coordination of software releases and the introduction of changes in business processes. e.   encouraging local users to support global systems and creating a financial structure that will operate internationally   24.    For most people in developing countries, Internet access is:   a.   easier than telephone access. b.   inexpensive. c.   very expensive. d.   essential. e.   through cable TV connections.   25.    VPNs:   a.   may not be able to support large numbers of remote users. b.   use private, leased telephone lines or frame-relay connections. c.   do not always have sufficient security for international services. d.   replace WANs for most international or global companies. e.   are not legal in many countries.

Multiple Choice Test for Management Information Systems

(CHAPTER 1-4) MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEMS INSTRUCTIONS TO THE CANDIDATES: Please carefully read the following ques...