IFSM 300 Disc ***Zeek the GEEK***

· This week we will be examining IT Infrastructures and there role in building an IT system. In this discussion, you will need to research the seven primary characteristics of an IT infrastructure:

1. Usability

2. Maintainability

3. Scalability/Performance

4. Reliability/Availability

5. Authentication

6. Security

7. Networks 

These terms can be applied to other aspects of IT and business in general, but the focus here is on IT architecture.  Some additional research will provide specific examples including what companies have focused on in these areas.  Simply typing "IT Scalability" (or whatever characteristic you select) into your web browser should provide good results, but be sure to evaluate the sources to make sure they are relevant to this discussion.  Remember to distinguish between objective articles and vendor's marketing information.

Each member of Group C will select one of the seven characteristics above and respond with an example of what this term means in terms of IT architecture and why it is so important to a solid architecture to support information systems. The members of Groups A, B and D will respond to at least two students' postings with comments, questions and further discussion. Be sure to check back and see if other students or I replied to your posting and posed additional questions or asked for additional information.

Note:  In Stage 3 of your Case Study, you'll be identifying which of the  above will be included in the list of IT requirements for a system to improve Myra's selected process.  Therefore, you will need a solid understanding of these to do a good job with Stage 3.