Sunday, June 14, 2009

Article: Windows 7 on the Archos Internet Tablet

This week on PC World online, an article about the new Windows 7 spoke of the Archos tablet. I tend to like new technologies and platforms as they come to mainstream. The tablets as a whole are pretty cool in my opinion. The Archos is a slim touch screen tablet for internet browsing. Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, etc. it has all the fixings, USB and now has Windows 7. Archos 9 is powered by an Intel Atom Z515 processors clocked at 1.2 GHz and runs with 1GB of DDR2 RAM.
Keeping consistent with its PMP siblings, the Archos 9 has an audio and video output (VGA), two stereo speakers and can easily place Skype calls with its integrated 1.3-megapixel camera and microphone. An optical trackpad and an on-screen keyboard can be used for navigation and data input. It will likely cost around $650 which is pricy for internet usage but may very well replace the bulky laptop for lots of users.
I think that for my own needs at this point a tablet is not necessary and I would rather take $300 and purchase an iPhone. I still could have a touch-screen device for internet browsing, given the OS may not be as good, screen not as big, and system processor not as fast. All decisions have trade-offs. The phone allows calling and music, but you probably could do voice over IP on the tablet and download music as well. It is a bit larger but should sell quite well.

Sources: Ionescu, Daniel. (2009). Windows 7 Powers Archos Internet Tablet. PC World. Source Sources: Spring, Tom. (2009). Google's Best Easter Eggs and Hoaxes. PC World. s: Spring, Tom. (2009). Google's Best Easter

Case Study Ch. 15: Nestle Tries for an All-for-One Global Strategy

2. What type of global business and systems strategy did Nestle adopt? Was this strategy appropriate for NestlĂ©’s business model?
Nestle adopted a global business and systems strategy which was the GLOBE. This type of strategy known’s as global business excellence was set to harmonize processes, standardize data, and standardize systems. These applied to all of Nestles worldwide systems and users. The same process for making sales commitments, factory production, billing customers, and compiling management reports along with financials.
As far as this system being appropriate for Nestle business model I think that it was. Having a strong standardized process on a global scale is imperative to smooth running operations. A company the size of Nestle needed a better way to track and rely on global transactions and information handling. The GLOBE project helped facilitate this and ensure a global standardized process.

3. What management, organization, and technology challenges did Nestle have to deal with to standardize its business processes and systems?
In order to standardize NestlĂ©’s business processes and systems the implementation of the GLOBE system occurred. The GLOBE was set out to accomplish just this task of a centrally standardized operational format. The challenges faced by Nestle in the transition to the GLOBE system were on many levels. They faced challenges with budgeting, needed cooperation, no shortcuts could be taken, took a long time. The greatest challenges were no technical in fact hey were personal. The global nature also caused challenges due to different laws, currencies, languages, and cultures.

4. What strategies did nestle management use to deal with these challenges? How successful were these strategies? Explain your answer.
Nestle management attempted to deal with challenges facing the implementation of GLOBE by having each business unit name a GLOBE manager and give them the feeling or responsibility, accountability, and decision-making power. This gave the individual unit s a sense of being present in the process. Each country had a data manager as well. It seems that these managerial challenges were overcome because the company continued to implement GLOBE over the next few years. I think they did a nice job under the circumstances.

I think that this case study with nestle is a great example of a company thinking ahead. They recognized potential shortcomings in the company’s IS and took the steps necessary to fix them. Even though this was quite an undertaking, the management did a good job and they stayed focused and the hard work paid off.
Sources: Management Information Systems Managing the Digital Firm, tenth edition. pgs. 624-627. Laudon, Kenneth C.

Sunday, June 7, 2009

Article: E3 2009 Picks and Pans

This week an article on PC World online reported on the E3 show. E3 is a gaming and tech show that is annually held where companies such as Microsoft and Sony display there hottest new technologies and games for the upcoming year. It is a time to show off what they have been keeping quiet for the past year. It typically reveals some cool new features of the gaming world, let’s see….
Lately we have been haring about the human computer interface. Well Microsoft has the natal coming out which is a controller free system which recognizes body gestures as controls. Now that is really cool, it probably will cost a lot at first but I probably will get one. Sony is coming out with a new 3-D technology for its gaming experiences and Nintendo is launching new versions of its best sellers.
I do enjoy playing video games from time to time nowadays; it is a nice escape from reality. I used to play a lot more but the nature of my lifestyle now is too busy to get involved with a regular videogame schedule. I am amazed though at how far videogames have come in the last ten years and what the future is looking like, the prospects of a completely virtual gaming experience are very good. I can’t wait to see what the gamin experience will be like ten years from now..
Then there is the question of ethics which someone brought up the other night. In regards to the premise that we may be able to not contribute to society if we can live in a virtual world, but I think this is not likely. We will still need electricity, food, water and the like but it may decrease the violence in the world, it may make people less confrontational, it may turn to be beneficial if we market it in a good way. It could be the new learning paradigm with great software for people of all ages, who knows…..

Sources: Peckham, Matt. (2009). E3 Picks and Pans. PC World.

Ch. 14 Case Study: What Went Wrong with Maine's New Medicaid System?

1. How important are information systems for Maine’s Department of Health and Human Services? Analyze the impact of its faulty Medicaid claims processing system.
Information systems are very important for Maine’s Department if Health and Human Services. Over 260,000 residents depend on this service. Information systems themselves are very important to the storage of private information. The transfer of information and dealing with all the specifics of codes regarding the laws and systems implemented by the government. Over 100,000 Medicaid claims per week must be managed by these information systems, they are crucial to the organization.
The impact of its faulty Medicaid claims processing system was vast. Millions of dollars of claims were withheld due to system error. The system was holding back approving claims and with it came over 300,000 frozen claims in the first two months. The system would send checks to doctors for the entire amount billed versus the Medicaid amount. In total this mishap cost the state 30 million dollars.

2. Evaluate the risks of the Medicaid claims processing system project and key risk factors.
The risks of the Medicaid claims processing system project were due to many factors. One of which was a lack of expertise from the contracting companies hired by the state. The other issues were lack of preparedness and security systems created for the software. This resulted in costs to the state and much inconvenience to many people. The risks involved with health care information systems are very serious. Confidential information must kept safe, billings and services rendered must be accurate and truthful, and payments must be accounted for and supplied by the state for the persons on Medicaid.

5. If you were in charge of managing this project, what else would you have done differently to increase chances for success?
If I were in charge of managing this project, in addition I would have attempted to increase the chances for success by hiring consultants from well-known high profile organizations whom have experience in such systems. I would communicate with other states and see how they have implemented their systems and what security measures they have in place. I would do all that I can to ensure the likelihood of success and in the case of a faulty system, I would have measures in place to fix the issues as soon as possible.

Sources: Management Information Systems Managing the Digital Firm, tenth edition. pgs. 589-591. Laudon, Kenneth C.

Sunday, May 31, 2009

Article: Is This The Next Iphone?

This week an article about a new smart phone coming out was very interesting. In today’s technological world, we are able to do so many things from our cell phones. The wireless internet capabilities, navigations, endless iphone applications and great cameras all combine to offer very powerful tools. Rumors have it that the new iphone will have Apple or Mac OS 3.0 and many new touch screen capabilities. A new autofocus function along with a compass offer more functions to the already amazing iphone.
I personally do not have an iphone. I looked into a while back as I am a member of AT&T wireless. Yet I was not eligible for an upgrade so the phone itself would costs over $300 for the smaller hard drive. I think that this is a bit ridiculous. If I am a member I should be able to switch phones within AT&T at any time. The other factors affecting my decision not to get an iphone are necessity and cost.
I have a razor and am pleased with it, the reception is good, and the phone is fine aesthetically. I do not need the internet on my phone or an endless barrage of apps. I think it is a bit excessive. I only have a $50 or so monthly payment as of now. The minimum increase would be to $75 a month I believe. The cost of the phone, combined with a higher monthly bill, and excessive luxuries which are not needed all combined together are more than enough to keep me from the iphone.
Undoubtedly I will inevitable give in and purchase a smart phone, most likely some new edition of the iphone. The time I do so, I will likely need it for work or some other function and will not worry about the monthly bill. I do find it amazing however how much power we have at our fingertips with these brand new technologies. Mobile computing and communication has changed so much over the past years and will continue to do so as the market is huge and still growing in certain areas of the world. The future should be exciting….

Sources: Suarez, Paul. (2009). Is This The Next Iphone? PC World.

Case Study: Can Information Systems Make Your Doctor Better?

1. What problems are hospitals and physicians encountering in diagnosing diseases and prescribing medications? What management, organization, and technology factors are responsible for these problems?
Hospitals and doctors are encountering problems in diagnosing illnesses and prescribing drugs. These problems include: using drugs improperly which cause adverse reactions, inappropriate drugs, poor handwriting, memory lapses, fatigue, distractions and to much volume. The factors responsible for this problem are poor management of information and lack of good technology to handle all this information.

2. Are CPOE and DDS systems appropriate solutions? Why or why not? What management, technology, and organization issues are involved in the use of these systems?
CPOE and DDS systems are not necessarily good systems for these environments. They must be adapted to the needs of the clinic and users must be properly trained in the operation of the systems. They are expensive systems with good theoretical application it is just a matter of time and resources to properly implement them. When using these systems good management of information is vital. The technology platforms can be user friendly after training.

3. What obstacles prevent computer systems from improving the medical industry? How can these obstacles be removed?
The obstacles that prevent computer systems from improving the medical system are that the human discretion will always be needed for diagnoses and treatment. Insurance policies also may inhibit the proper application of these systems. Digital patient record systems are not common enough yet either. To remove any obstacles the medical industry as a whole, that being insurance companies, clinics, and patients alike must implement changes to help facilitate these computerized programs to function at maximum capacity.

Sources: Management Information Systems Managing the Digital Firm, tenth edition. pgs. 505-507. Laudon, Kenneth C.

Sunday, May 17, 2009

Article Review: Six Smart Ways to Grow Small Business IT

A very interesting and appropriate article from PC World talks about how to improve and develop good IT infrastructure in small businesses. I thought this subject matter is especially appropriate as we are in an entrepreneurial class simultaneously with our IS/IT class. The article focused on how as a company grows its IT must grow as well. An analogy to clothing on a child was drawn to a firm’s IT. Imagine a large adult in infants clothing, t simply would not work. This happens to larger companies and it can cause a lot of time, money, and energy to fix and upgrade IT that is needed.
The author suggests that your need to change IT will occur a lot sooner than most expect. He suggests making sure that your small business budget has enough space for IT. He suggests budgeting approximately 10%-15% of salary per employee for IT each year. This seems a bit high and I would have to believe this depends on the type of company we are referring to, yet I am not the expert.
Planning your IT future is emphasized by the author. Small businesses can end up with to many different types of systems. Another trend for small businesses is to replace systems with new ones as opposed to updating or modifying the current hardware’s. The next recommendation is to make IT part of management. This step helps ensure good timing and cost structure from the owner to the employees. Taking care of basics is another issues important to small business IT. A hierarchy of needs can be used here, with information security as one of the priorities.
Choosing vendors wisely is crucial to small businesses in the early stages. A key to success, vendors and suppliers must be efficient and reliable. Continue learning is essential to success of any business. Finally the author offers us that a combination of enterprise IT and small business advantages one can ensure that a growing business is prepared for success.
I think this article offers owners of small businesses a good path for beginning to think about their IT. In today’s business world, IT is becoming evermore crucial and part of daily operations. The transfer of information, protecting information, and communicating within various sites all need to be managed by good IT systems. By taking a proactive approach to ensuring IT stability and preparedness one can begin to mitigate some of the risks of issues associated with information systems and business operations.

Sources: Widman, Jake. (2009). Six Smart Ways to Grow Small Business IT. PC World.

Ch 10-Case Study: Can eBay Continue Growing?

1.What is eBay’s business model and business strategy? How successful has it been?

eBay’s business model and business strategy is perfect for a web based company. They stock no inventory and ship no products; the revenue is derived from information movement. The success of eBay is evident as of 2006 there were 200 million users, 8,000 full-time employees, and $40 billion worth of goods changing hands. The bulk of revenue is from fees and commissions from the trading services. Direct advertising is also another source of revenue for eBay. Expansion in geography and cope are two focuses of eBay’s strategy.

2.What are the problems that eBay is currently facing?

eBay is currently facing problems in competition with Yahoo in Asian markets. Laws in other countries make it difficult to protect property and rights. eBay also has a threat from lack of honesty and integrity of its auctions. Online crime is definitely a big problem facing any online auctioneer or vendor. Customer service can also be a problem at times due to the sheer size of the company and its customers or users.

5.Will eBay be successful in the long run? Why or why not?

I believe that eBay will be successful in the long run. I feel this way for a few reasons. The first being that it already has a functional and profitable business model and plan. The second is that it has name recognition and virtually everyone wither has used eBay or knows someone whom has. Third is that with the success of the company good management will adapt to an ever changing competitive landscape and customer trends. The fourth and final reason is that the company has already recognized its current challenges and taken steps to mitigate those issues. Any newcomer to the scene will have a very difficult time competing with eBay and if they are truly innovative and clever, then they will likely be bought out by the giant anyway.

Sources: Management Information Systems Managing the Digital Firm, tenth edition. pgs. 424-426. Laudon, Kenneth C.

Sunday, April 26, 2009

Article: 10 Most Anticipated Ultraportables and Netbooks of 2009

An article in PC World online was describing some upcoming and anticipated portable devices of the next year. This is certainly relevant to this week’s material in regards to Ch. 7 Telecommunications, the Internet, and Wireless Technology. The next year will hold the release of some exciting electronics. The ultraportable and notebooks are this, small, and lightweight portable computing devices with longer battery life and more convenient portability. The functions of these new devices will be the best yet, with better graphics, larger memory capacity, TV capabilities, GPS navigations, and 3G technologies.
One such laptop coming out is the MSI Wind U115. It will cost under $700 and is less than 3 pounds; the screen size is 10 inches. It is considered a hybrid computer due to its separate solid state hard drive and the traditional 160 GB hard disk. It will use less power than a standard hard drive while performing faster. Battery life will be dramatically increased as you can switch off the hard drive and just run the system on solid state drive. 12 to 20 ours is the estimate. 3 USB ports and 2 GB of RAM, good speakers, wireless card, and many SD card capabilities top it off.
Personally I think it sometimes can be difficult to decide which laptop to buy. Of course once you do make a decision there will be something newer, better, or cooler in just a few months. Nevertheless when I make a decision about buying new technology or in this case a newer laptop, I look at a few things. I first consider price, what my budget is, then I look at function requirement for myself. At this point I usually have it narrowed down to about 2 or 3 laptops. Then I like to test them out a little bit and maybe do some online research to get users opinions of the machines. Then the decision usually comes down to which one I feel most comfortable with. In the case of this new laptop described above, someone looking for a lightweight, easily portable, long lasting laptop will apparently be well satisfied. Let’s see what else there is to come…

Sources: Paul, Ian. (2009). 10 Most Anticipated Ultraportables and Netbooks of 2009. PC World.

Case Study: A Stolen Laptop at the Department of Veterans Affairs: The Worst Data Theft Ever?

1.List and describe the security weaknesses at the Department of Veterans Affairs.

The security weaknesses at the Department of Veterans Affairs are: That they allowed an employee to take home confidential and sensitive information, employees working without authorization, the operating system, password system, and detection alerts were all vulnerable to security breaches, the department delayed reporting their incidents for two weeks. These combined weaknesses allowed for information to slip into the wrong hands and be made vulnerable to theft. A tighter security system was needed top ensure information protection.

2.What management, organization, and technology factors contributed to these weaknesses?

The factors contributing to these weaknesses were from management, the organizational structure, and techoinogical applications used at the Department of Veterans Affairs. An audit recommended centralization of IT security programs, ensuring employee job description had proper rules for access, and work should be done on intrusion free systems, infrastructure protection actions, and better access controls. None were implemented. The demand for greater direct authority to enforce security policies and mandates was made apparent.

4.What solutions would you suggest to prevent these security problems?

To prevent such security problems and ensure the safety of confidential information I would recommend that the Department of Veterans Affairs keep a tighter lid on its information. This can be accomplishes by ensuring personal responsibility and authorization of any confidential material. That no material may be transmitted or saved outside of the protected network computers. That additional security systems be put into place which can recognize when material is vulnerable to theft and will notify the proper authorities. Better management is needed to ensure the facilitation of these new measures and this is vital to the success of the organization and its members.

Sources: Management Information Systems Managing the Digital Firm, tenth edition. pgs. 348-350. Laudon, Kenneth C.

Sunday, April 19, 2009

Ch. 6 Foundations of Business Intelligence: Databases and Information Management

In almost any company today the use of information technology is imperative. It seems as though the status quo today involves computerized data storage and technology. The usage of databases to improve business performance and decision making is also very common. On many levels, the performance of modern day companies depends on databases and information systems. In regards to sales, customers, suppliers, and regulators, these databases provide for an efficient organization of information. Businesses can learn many things about their associates and partners by utilizing the power of these databases. In many larger firms which provide some type of manufacturing capacity, the utilization of databases is imperative.
A company such as Wal Mart is a perfect example of how databases help facilitate success and performance. Companies such as Verizon also use databases to make decision upon what new models of phone to add to their lineup. Databases encompass concepts such as data warehouses which are storages of current and old data which may be used to make decisions. Data marts are smaller sets of data where a summarized or focused portion of the organization’s data is kept for certain users. Both internal and external data sources incorporate in company’s databases.
Business intelligence is a set of tools for consolidating, analyzing, and providing access to vast amounts of data to help users make better business decisions. Firms utilize business intelligence in order to gain knowledge about customers, competitors, and markets. Online Analytical Processing supports multidimensional data analysis, enabling users to view the same data in different ways using multiple dimensions. The ability to answer issues online is needed in today’s businesses. Data mining is a concept which provides insights into corporate data that cannot be obtained with OLAP by finding hidden patterns and relationships in larger databases and inferring rules from them to predict future behavior. The concept of predictive analysis is incorporated into data mining as it uses techniques and historical data to predict outcomes of business behaviors.
I think that many companies today depend on these concepts for success. Marketing companies, clothing companies, even food retailers all need to know information about their customers, suppliers, and competitors. These databases help a company like Wal Mart be able to facilitate such a vast distribution network. It is imperative that databases continue to grow and improve so that our capabilities as companies may as well.

Sources: Management Information Systems Managing The Digital Firm, tenth edition. pgs. 238-243. Laudon, Kenneth C.

Article Review: Cheap Blu-Ray players

Blu Ray players are due for lower prices say the experts. In today’s retail market the average Blu Ray player is around $200 or so. You can also find a Blu Ray player in Playstation 3 which boasts the added feature of being a gaming console but will cost you around $400. I think that the technology behind HD movies and Blu Ray is great. The sound and picture quality is excellent. I myself recently purchase a Playstation 3 and am enjoying it. I feel that keeping up with new technology platforms can often be expensive but rewarding. I think that supply and demand will likely work in the consumers favor later this year as the article is predicting. We will then have affordable Blu Ray players and many DVD options under $30. It is important for all the companies in that market to remain competitive. I look forward to the price drops.

Sources: Bertolucci, Jeff. (2009). Cheap Blu Ray Players to hit US Shelves. PC World.

Ch. 5 Case Study: Merrill Lynch

1. Why did Merrill Lynch need to update its IT infrastructure?
Merrill Lynch needed to update its IT infrastructure so that it could remain a dominant competitor in the financial industry. All of the competitor banks and investment firms were going through updates as well. In order to remain competitive, Merrill Lynch looked to provide new programs for its workers and mangers to give them a competitive advantage. Through the application and administration of updated IT systems, Merrill Lynch was able to stay ahead of the competition.

2. What is the relationship of information technology to Merrill Lynch’s business strategy? How was its web services initiative related to that strategy?
The relationship between information technology and Merrill Lynch is one of necessity. The need for information technology is evident in regards to Merrill Lynch’s sustained success. The goal was to develop new systems that exploited the depth of information in its mainframes. This was accomplished with the help of its web services division. The web services initiative at Merrill Lynch was connected to the strategic goals of the company. By using web services Merrill Lynch hoped to cut costs by as much as $20 million. Many criteria were established along with new platforms which facilitated these changes.

4. Do you think that Merrill Lynch’s decision to sell off its successful technology initiatives was a good idea? Why or why not?
I think that Merrill Lynch’s decision to sell off its successful technology initiatives was a good idea. The reasons are those surrounding cost savings, increased revenue, and the creation of new areas for change. By selling off the technology initiatives the information technology budget received more space for spending. This was a well thought out and planned \sale and it turned out to be a good decision.

Sources: Management Information Systems Managing the Digital Firm, tenth edition. pgs. 218-220. Laudon, Kenneth C.

Sunday, April 12, 2009

E-Portfolio (Just in Case I did not make it Public)

Ch. 4: Ethical and Social Issues in Information Systems
4/13/09

Where information systems are concerned in our current society, strong issues around ethics exist. A new legal environment has been implemented after previous firms and individuals have broken laws and displayed poor ethics. Strong federal penalties exist when corporate mangers break certain laws. Companies such as: Enron, Worldcom, Merrill Lynch, Parmalat, Bristol-Meyers-Squibb, Brocade Communications Systems, Inc., and KPMG are just a few examples. All of these companies have broken laws around ethical business practices in the past.
The current trend is for defendants to reach a guilty plea so that the fine and sentencing is reduced. The unethical usage of information systems were instrumental in many of these crimes. The term ethics refers to, “principles of right and wrong that individuals, acting as free moral agents, use to make choices to guide their behaviors.” The implementation of information systems can potentially disrupt the power architecture of established organizations and governments. This technology is pivotal in our everyday lives in developed nations.
There is a new significance placed on ethics revolving information systems especially the internet. When I think of ethics and the internet I first think of my own safety. In regards to my safety I am referring to my personal information. Any sensitive information such as social security number, bank account numbers, and credit card numbers and so on. If this information was shared unethically and in an irresponsible manner then my identity could be hijacked and major ramification for me could incur. This is one example on a more personal level of why the ethics of information systems are very significant. We must do whatever we can to ensure the proper usage and sharing of sensitive information.
The text offers a model for thinking about ethical, social, and political issues. The obvious danger regarding information systems in my opinion on a security level for nations is military information. Any secret technologies or plans could be shared with inappropriate parties which could jeopardize national security. By splitting the areas into: information rights and obligations, property rights and obligations, system quality, quality of life, and accountability and control, the authors categorize these issues. Individual issues are grouped within the quality of life section, whereas political, social, and ethical issues fall into information rights and obligations along with property rights and obligations.
The authors explain these five moral dimensions of the information age. Essentially by protecting our rights and property we can help mitigate the risk of poor usage of information systems. We see this on an everyday basis with secure networks, firewalls, passwords and pins. I believe that there will always be some factor of risk by using the internet and paying bills or banking online. This is the nature of the information system and the humans utilizing it.

Sources: Management Information Systems Managing The Digital Firm, tenth edition. pgs. 127-130. Laudon, Kenneth C.

Article: Google's Best Easter Eggs and Hoaxes

Google is one of the most used search engines on the internet. In regards to an information system it is relvant to all of us on an everyday basis. From an ethical persepective google can be a source of pranks and hoaxes to its users. Not to mention Google can allow viruses to be transmitted, whether accidental or not. I feel that Google is a great company and website. Its capabilites are amazing. I know that when I need to find anythina at all I can depend on google to find it for me. The articel I have read reviews certain Easter Egg apps and lets you explore them yourself. It is just a good example in relevacne to this week's topics of information systems and the ethics involed. Nothing is a perfect system even when it comes to ncomputers, the internet, and informatin systems. But I think Google comes damn close to being perfect (at elast for me when I need to find infromation).

Sources: Spring, Tom. (2009). Google's Best Easter Eggs and Hoaxes. PC World.

Case Study- Amazon.com: An Internet Giant Fine-Tunes Its Strategy

2. Describe Amazon’s evolving business strategy?
The business strategy at Amazon has changed much since it began some 13 years ago. Beginning as a way to sell books over the internet directly to customers, Amazon offered a much larger selection and lower prices. By providing great customer support via telephone and e-mail the customers were able to connect with real people. The creation of “1-click” shopping was Amazon’s own. In 1998 they began selling music and video products. The take home message is that goals were set upon a “virtual” retail company. This encompassed “lean inventories, low head count, and significant cost savings over traditional bookstores.”
In the early 2000s Amazon lowered prices, gave free shipping, and offered e-commerce to business in an attempt to boost revenues. Next they looked into operations for improvements with efficiency. Finally in 2003 Amazon was on paper a profitable corporation. Even today they still are doing well with the discount prices and ease of shopping they offer.

3. Why did the company change its strategy?
Amazon changed its strategy throughout its existence to compete better. The survival and success of any company, especially an online retailer is dependent upon its ability to adjust to the current market. By making changes to its business strategy Amazon was able to report profits in less than a ten year period. Not to mention continual profits until recently. The changes made within Amazon as noted in the previous question were timely and we will likely see more in the near future.

4. Do you thing Amazon can continue to be successful? Explain your answer.
I believe that Amazon is a great company. I have used them repeatedly over the years for purchasing textbooks and personal reading materials. I do not hesitate or even shop around because I am so confident that I will be getting a great deal at Amazon. I would gladly use them over E-Bay as I trust the website more. As for the future I think they will continue to deliver for their investors. If the senior management is flexible and creative they can adjust to any economic situation. Not to mention that there will always be college students who need books. A good history combined with a more or less steady base for revenue and customers also make my beliefs more solid, in regards to their continual success.

Sources: Sources: Management Information Systems Managing the Digital Firm, tenth edition. pgs. 107-108. Laudon, Kenneth C.

Wednesday, April 8, 2009

About Me

I am currently working for Amgen in the Neuroscience department. My responsibilities include receptor occupancy assays and immunohistochemical analysis. I support both the In-Vivo and In-Vitro groups. I received my Bachelor’s in Science form The University of Michigan in 2007. During which I worked in an Oncology lab for three years learning tissue culture and pharmocogenomic analysis, in regards to breast cancer therapies. Upon completion of this program (Dual Degree) I see myself transitioning into a business unit of Amgen. I would like to work in an environment which calls upon knowledge from scientific as well as business related issues. I would love to travel more and since the Biopharmaceutical industry is worldwide this may not be such a far fetched desire. A bit of networking, timing, and luck may land me a desirable spot, We shall see…..