Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
need of the SME to have highly developed Internet design and development skills or to call
upon the Web designer to make simple changes to product descriptions and prices.
Database Modeling
The decision on Web hosting will have a major influence on the level of skills required
by the graduate in the design or modification of the database management system (DBMS).
While vendors provide DBMS solution software, there may be a requirement to modify such
systems so legacy software can be fully integrated at the back end. Specific skills include the
provision and integrity of data access, validation processes, authorized manipulation of data,
and functionality of the online form between the front-end and the back-end.
E-Commerce Technologies
With the release of new technologies on a regular basis, being able to advise business
owners on the suitability of particular technologies for their e-business environment takes
on a level of importance that takes it past the hype stage. For e-commerce to be integrated
into the business model, advising the SME on the appropriate communications technology
and infrastructure must be supported with measurable outcomes that have a cost-benefit
component. For this to be accomplished, graduates must have a working knowledge of
Internet protocols; intranets, extranets, virtual private networks and intelligent agents or
bots; Web server architecture, hardware, software and tools; mobile communications and
telephony; distributed systems technologies; sockets; multimedia technology overview;
security issues, including firewalls, encryption and authentication; and international stan-
dards, emergent and future.
Local and Global Regulatory Systems
The impact of buying and selling across the Internet has impacted upon the legal and
regulatory policy environment of e-commerce. Legal concepts on jurisdiction when market-
ing in cyberspace raise as many questions as answers for SMEs developing their e-business
strategy for working without borders. The graduate could find themselves in a position, when
designing the Web site that promotes goods and services over the Internet, that may
contravene laws and regulations in import and export of certain goods and services. Specific
issues that need to be addressed include intellectual property, trademarks, digital copyright,
advertising, consumer protection, and taxation responsibilities. While the graduate will need
to understand the concepts and implications of commercial transactions, enforcing electronic
agreements, performing financial services, securities regulation, antitrust, criminal law, and
international laws and ethics, they should also be in a position to advise the SME when to
seek professional legal advice before implementing their business strategy to minimize
litigation.
Supply Chain Management
No two businesses operate in the same way, each has a unique set of characteristics
in sourcing raw materials and shipping finished inventory. To maximize the return on
investment, the interrelationship of obtaining materials, working on and storing them
internally, delivering them to their final destination in the face of uncertainty, and changing
prices with varying demands places the graduate in a unique position in developing a supply
