Information systems by baltzan 2e assignment

IIM-I300 SU2014 Assignment 1 Due 6/8 11:59PM 50 points

Directions: Answer each question originally, completely and thoughtfully (these are essay questions, please treat them as such). Complete the assignment and upload (MS Word file attachments ONLY) to OnCourse Assignments (Assignment 1) by the due date. Be sure to cite your sources using APA 6th style. Missing or incorrect citations will result in a deduction of points. Each question is worth 10 points. Your Turnitin score must be at or below 40% or no credit will be given. Please see the syllabus located in OnCourse Resources for information on submitting late work.

1. Describe the information age. What is it and what are its defining characteristics? Describe the differences between data, information, business intelligence, and knowledge. Provide examples of each.

2. Explain systems thinking and how management information systems enable business communications. Provide an actual example from industry (research the subject on the web – provide your source(s)) where MIS enabled enhanced business communication.

3. Describe Porter's Five Forces Model in depth and explain each of the five forces. Give specific examples for each of the five forces.

4. Demonstrate how a company can add value by using Porter's value chain analysis (VCA) and define the various aspects of VCA. Note that VCA is NOT the same thing as Porter’s five forces (it is often used in conjunction with it).

5. Explain why competitive advantages are temporary. Research the web and provide two examples of the temporary nature of competitive advantage.