through the introduction of the PC and networks, all the way to the era of mobile computing. During each of these phases, new innovations in software and technology allowed businesses to integrate technology more deeply into their organizations. Virtually every company uses information systems which leads to the question: Does information systems bring a competitive advantage? In the final analysis the goal of this book is to help you understand the importance of information systems in making an organization more competitive. Your challenge is to understand the key components of an information system and how it can be used to bring a competitive advantage to every organization you will serve in your career. Study Questions 1. What are the five major components that make up an information system? 2. List the three examples of information system hardware? 3. Microsoft Windows is an example of which component of information systems? 4. What is application software? 5. What roles do people play in information systems? 6. What is the definition of a process? 7. What was invented first, the personal computer or the Internet? 8. In what year were restrictions on commercial use of the Internet first lifted? 9. What is Carr’s main argument about information technology? Exercises 1. Suppose that you had to explain to a friend the concept of an information system. How would you define it? Write a one- paragraph description in your own words that you feel would Information Systems for Business and Beyond (2019) pg. 19
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