Role of Two it Infrastructure

¶ … Role of Two it Infrastructure Components

Networking and Telecommunications Platforms

In previous eras of computer technology applications in organizations, computer equipment and processes were comparatively isolated from other important components of the organization. Typically, data storage and data processing functions were the principal uses of computers in the business setting until the 1990s. Thereafter, individual employees began working on computer terminals but they were not routinely connected to one another or to the other systems of the organization until the latter part of the decade. By the turn of the 21st century, most businesses maintained computer systems that were interconnected through a local intranet and also lined to the Internet externally. Still, until relatively recently, computer systems operated in relative isolation from other technological functions within the organization.

Today, computer systems and other technologies, especially those in the realm of digital communications, are becoming fully integrated to the extent that computer systems are no longer separable from other systems and functions. That integration of computer systems, cellular telephones, landline telephones, handheld PDAs, wireless devices, and other peripheral devices is beneficial in many respects. It allows instant synchronization of devices and information databases which is much more efficient than isolated systems that require manual transfer or data synchronization. On the other hand, the mutual dependence of the full range of computer systems and business communications systems also presents certain concerns in relation to maintenance, mutual compatibility, and malfunctions. There is no doubt that complete multiple-system integration is a tremendous benefit but it significantly complicates their management.

Consulting and System Integration Services

Modern computer systems and other digital information and communications systems and platforms are already essential to the contemporary business organization. However, as the technology continues to evolve along multiple fronts, the prospect of connecting and integrating various systems and functions in a manner that is effective and seamless becomes that much more important. Moreover, that integration must be implemented in multiple areas to allow business organizations to function efficiently and profitably. In that regard, there are two primary areas of system integration where consulting professionals typically play the most important roles in contemporary business organizations.

First, consultants must assist organizational management design computer information, data storage, and communications systems that allow organizations to fulfill their operational responsibilities. Generally, the individuals who determine what processes are necessary for the organization to conduct business are not sufficiently proficient in computer architecture to actually design the computer systems necessary to accomplish those objectives. Therefore, they must rely on expert consultants to translate operational capabilities and functions into software applications that permit those functions through the IT systems.