Emerging Trends, Technologies, and Applications End of Chapter Solutions Reviews and Discussions 1. What are two advantages of push technologies? Push technology streamlines the process of users getting software updates and updated content. Push technology also improves business relations and customer service because users get the information they need in a more timely fashion. 2. What are two disadvantages of the SaaS model? Two disadvantages of the Software as a Service (SaaS) model are: • Dependency on Internet Connectivity: SaaS applications are accessed and operated over the internet, which means users rely heavily on stable and reliable internet connectivity. If there are disruptions in internet service or slow connection speeds, users may experience difficulties accessing the SaaS application or encounter delays in performing tasks. This dependency on internet connectivity can pose challenges, especially in regions with unreliable or limited internet infrastructure, or in situations where users need to access the application while offline. • Limited Customization and Control: SaaS applications are typically hosted and managed by third-party providers, which limits the level of customization and control available to users. While SaaS solutions often offer configurable settings and options to adapt to various business needs, they may not fully meet the unique requirements or preferences of every organization. Users may encounter limitations in terms of customizing features, integrations with other systems, or implementing specific security measures. Additionally, organizations may have less control over updates, patches, and data management processes, as these are managed by the SaaS provider, potentially leading to concerns about data security, compliance, and vendor lock-in. 3. What are three business applications of VR? Three business applications of Virtual Reality (VR) are: 1. Training and Simulation: VR can be used to simulate real-world scenarios for training purposes in various industries, including healthcare, manufacturing, and aviation. For example, surgeons can practice complex procedures in a virtual environment before performing them on actual patients. Similarly, manufacturing workers can undergo virtual training sessions to learn how to operate machinery or handle hazardous materials safely. 2. Product Prototyping and Design: VR enables businesses to create immersive virtual prototypes of products and designs, allowing stakeholders to visualize and interact with them in 3D space. This technology is particularly valuable in industries such as architecture, automotive, and consumer electronics, where companies can iteratively design and refine products before investing in physical prototypes. VR facilitates collaboration among teams dispersed across different locations, streamlining the product development process. 3. Virtual Meetings and Collaboration: VR platforms offer virtual meeting spaces where remote teams can gather, interact, and collaborate in a more immersive and engaging manner compared to traditional video conferencing tools. Businesses can use VR meetings for various purposes, including project planning, brainstorming sessions, and client presentations. VR enhances communication and fosters a sense of presence, enabling participants to feel like they are physically together in the same space, regardless of their geographical locations. 4. What are two obstacles to using VR systems? Two obstacles to using Virtual Reality (VR) systems are: 1. Cost and Accessibility: VR systems often require specialized hardware, including VR headsets and controllers, which can be expensive for both individuals and businesses. High-quality VR setups may also necessitate powerful computers or gaming consoles to run the software smoothly, further adding to the cost. Additionally, accessibility issues arise as not everyone can afford or access the necessary equipment, limiting the adoption of VR technology among certain demographics. 2. Potential Health and Safety Concerns: Prolonged use of VR systems can lead to discomfort or adverse effects such as motion sickness, eye strain, and headaches, commonly referred to as "cybersickness." These issues may deter some users from fully embracing VR experiences, especially in settings where prolonged usage is required, such as training simulations or virtual meetings. Furthermore, there are concerns about users becoming disoriented or unaware of their physical surroundings while immersed in VR, increasing the risk of accidents or injuries, particularly in environments with obstacles or hazards. Addressing these health and safety concerns is crucial for broader acceptance and adoption of VR technology. 5. What are three applications of RFID? Three applications of RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology are: 1. Supply Chain Management: RFID is widely used in supply chain management to track and manage inventory throughout the production, distribution, and retail processes. By attaching RFID tags to products or packaging, companies can automatically identify and trace items as they move through the supply chain. This improves inventory accuracy, reduces manual labor, minimizes stockouts and overstock situations, and enhances overall operational efficiency. 2. Asset Tracking: RFID technology is employed for asset tracking in various industries, including healthcare, manufacturing, and logistics. Organizations use RFID tags to monitor the location and status of valuable assets, such as equipment, tools, vehicles, and IT assets. This enables real-time visibility into asset movements, helps prevent loss or theft, optimizes asset utilization, and streamlines maintenance and servicing processes. 3. Access Control and Security: RFID is utilized for access control and security applications in facilities such as offices, hospitals, airports, and residential complexes. Employees or authorized individuals can use RFID-enabled cards or badges to gain entry to restricted areas or secure facilities. Additionally, RFID tags can be embedded in documents, credentials, or valuable items to prevent counterfeiting, authenticate identity, or track their movement within controlled environments. This enhances overall security measures and provides an auditable trail of access events. 6. What is the major reason for the popularity of QR codes? The major reason for the popularity of QR codes is that they can store (and digitally present) much more data, including URL links, geo coordinates, and text. 7. What are two advantages of a private over the public cloud? Two advantages of a private over the public cloud include the following: • A private cloud achieves cost savings by integrating fragmented infrastructures, automating common data center tasks, and providing financial accuracy and responsibility. • In addition, an organization gains a greater degree of automation through the standardization of previously custom-configured services into predefined infrastructure products offered in a controlled self-service manner. 8. What are two applications of nanotechnology? Two applications of nanotechnology are: 1. Medicine and Healthcare: Nanotechnology has various applications in medicine and healthcare, including drug delivery, diagnostics, imaging, and tissue engineering. Nanoscale materials, such as nanoparticles and nanotubes, can be engineered to encapsulate drugs, enabling targeted delivery to specific cells or tissues in the body. This enhances therapeutic efficacy while minimizing side effects. Nanotechnology also facilitates the development of advanced imaging techniques, such as quantum dots for fluorescent labeling, allowing for more precise visualization of biological structures and processes. Furthermore, nanomaterials are being explored for use in biosensors and diagnostic devices for early disease detection and monitoring. 2. Energy Storage and Conversion: Nanotechnology plays a crucial role in improving energy storage and conversion technologies, such as batteries, fuel cells, and solar cells. Nanomaterials, such as carbon nanotubes and nanocomposites, offer enhanced properties, such as high surface area, conductivity, and mechanical strength, which can significantly improve the performance and efficiency of energy storage devices. For instance, nanotechnology enables the development of lightweight and high-capacity lithium-ion batteries for portable electronics and electric vehicles. Similarly, nanomaterials are used to enhance the efficiency of solar cells by increasing light absorption and charge carrier mobility, leading to improved conversion of sunlight into electricity. Projects 1. After reading the information presented in this chapter and other sources, write a one-page paper that describes two companies (in addition to those mentioned in this book) that have been using VR. What are two advantages and two disadvantages of using VR? What is the main difference between a VR system and a human where they are used for therapy? Virtual reality (VR) technology has gained traction across industries, with companies exploring its potential for innovation and transformation. This paper delves into two companies leveraging VR, outlines advantages and disadvantages of VR technology, and highlights the main difference between VR systems and human therapy. Companies Utilizing VR: • Oculus VR (a subsidiary of Meta Platforms, Inc.): Oculus VR is renowned for its Oculus Rift and Oculus Quest VR headsets, which offer immersive gaming experiences, virtual social interactions, and entertainment content. Beyond gaming, Oculus VR collaborates with healthcare organizations to develop VR-based therapy solutions for mental health disorders, rehabilitation, and pain management. • AppliedVR: AppliedVR specializes in creating VR therapeutics for healthcare applications, including pain management, stress reduction, and behavioral therapy. Their VR solutions are used in hospitals, clinics, and research settings to enhance patient outcomes, improve treatment adherence, and reduce reliance on pharmaceutical interventions. Advantages of VR: • Immersive Experiences: VR technology enables users to immerse themselves in virtual environments, providing a sense of presence and realism that traditional media cannot replicate. This immersive experience enhances engagement, emotional connection, and learning outcomes in various contexts, from gaming and entertainment to training and education. • Therapeutic Applications: VR therapy offers a non-pharmacological approach to managing pain, anxiety, and other psychological conditions. By providing immersive, distraction-based experiences, VR therapy can reduce pain perception, alleviate symptoms of anxiety and PTSD, and facilitate exposure therapy for phobias and trauma-related disorders. Disadvantages of VR: • Health and Safety Concerns: Prolonged use of VR headsets may lead to discomfort, fatigue, and motion sickness in some users, known as virtual reality sickness. Additionally, VR experiences can cause sensory overload or trigger adverse reactions in individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, such as epilepsy or vestibular disorders. • Cost and Accessibility: VR hardware and software can be expensive, limiting accessibility for individuals and organizations with budget constraints. High upfront costs for VR equipment, content development, and technical support may pose barriers to adoption, particularly in resource-limited settings or underserved communities. Difference between VR Therapy and Human Therapy: The main difference between VR therapy and traditional human therapy lies in the mode of intervention delivery and the nature of therapeutic experiences. While human therapy typically involves face-to-face interactions with a therapist or counselor in a physical setting, VR therapy utilizes virtual environments and interactive simulations to deliver therapeutic interventions remotely or in controlled clinical settings. VR therapy offers advantages such as accessibility, scalability, and customization, allowing patients to engage in therapy sessions from the comfort of their homes and access tailored interventions based on their specific needs and preferences. However, VR therapy may lack the interpersonal connection and nuanced understanding of human emotions and non-verbal cues that characterize traditional therapy approaches, highlighting the importance of integrating VR interventions with human support and clinical oversight for optimal outcomes. In conclusion, companies like Oculus VR and AppliedVR are harnessing the power of VR technology to create immersive experiences and innovative therapeutic solutions. While VR offers advantages such as immersion and therapeutic efficacy, it also presents challenges related to health and safety, cost, and accessibility. Understanding the differences between VR therapy and human therapy is essential for maximizing the potential of VR technology in healthcare and mental wellness, ensuring that it complements existing therapeutic approaches and enhances patient care. 2. Virtual worlds are being increasingly used for communication and collaboration. After reading the information presented in this chapter and other sources, write a one-page paper that describes two companies (in addition to those mentioned in this book) that have been using virtual worlds for these purposes. What are two advantages and two disadvantages of using virtual worlds? What are two examples of companies that provide virtual worlds platforms? Virtual worlds have emerged as powerful platforms for communication and collaboration, enabling individuals and organizations to connect, interact, and collaborate in immersive digital environments. This paper explores two companies utilizing virtual worlds for these purposes, outlines advantages and disadvantages of virtual worlds, and highlights examples of virtual worlds platforms provided by companies. Companies Utilizing Virtual Worlds: 1. Spatial Systems: Spatial Systems offers a collaborative virtual reality platform designed for remote meetings, presentations, and brainstorming sessions. The platform allows users to join virtual rooms using VR headsets or web browsers, interact with digital content in real-time, and collaborate with colleagues from anywhere in the world. Spatial Systems' virtual world facilitates natural conversations, spatial interactions, and shared experiences, enhancing team collaboration and creativity in distributed work environments. 2. Gather: Gather is a virtual office and social space platform that enables teams and communities to create customizable virtual environments for communication and collaboration. Users can design virtual spaces resembling real-world offices, campuses, or social venues, complete with interactive elements such as video conferencing areas, whiteboards, and collaborative workspaces. Gather's intuitive interface and proximity-based audio communication foster spontaneous interactions, serendipitous encounters, and team bonding experiences in virtual settings. Advantages of Virtual Worlds: 1. Enhanced Collaboration and Engagement: Virtual worlds offer immersive and interactive environments that facilitate richer communication, collaboration, and engagement compared to traditional video conferencing or messaging platforms. Users can interact with virtual objects, share multimedia content, and co-create in real-time, fostering creativity, innovation, and team cohesion in remote or distributed teams. 2. Accessibility and Inclusivity: Virtual worlds provide accessible and inclusive spaces for individuals with diverse backgrounds, abilities, and geographical locations to connect and collaborate. By transcending physical barriers and accommodating different communication styles, virtual worlds promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in virtual meetings, events, and social interactions. Disadvantages of Virtual Worlds: 1. Technical Complexity and Hardware Requirements: Virtual worlds often require specialized hardware such as VR headsets or high-performance computers, which may pose barriers to adoption for users with limited technical proficiency or access to resources. Additionally, technical issues such as connectivity issues, system compatibility, and software glitches can disrupt user experiences and impede effective communication and collaboration in virtual environments. 2. Social and Psychological Challenges: Virtual worlds may exacerbate feelings of isolation, disconnection, and fatigue in users, particularly in prolonged or intense virtual interactions. The absence of non-verbal cues, physical presence, and social norms inherent in face-to-face communication can lead to misunderstandings, discomfort, or social anxiety in virtual settings, affecting interpersonal relationships and team dynamics. Examples of Companies Providing Virtual Worlds Platforms: 1. AltspaceVR (Owned by Microsoft): AltspaceVR is a social VR platform that enables users to host virtual events, meetings, and gatherings in customizable virtual environments. The platform offers features such as avatars, spatial audio, and interactive objects, allowing participants to engage in real-time conversations, presentations, and collaborative activities in immersive 3D spaces. 2. Virbela: Virbela is a virtual campus and remote work platform that recreates physical office environments in a digital format. The platform provides customizable virtual spaces for teams, conferences, and educational institutions, complete with virtual offices, meeting rooms, and social hubs. Virbela's spatial audio and proximity-based communication enhance collaboration and community-building in virtual settings, enabling organizations to foster connections and productivity in remote work environments. In conclusion, companies like Spatial Systems and Gather are harnessing the potential of virtual worlds to revolutionize communication and collaboration in remote work settings. While virtual worlds offer advantages such as enhanced collaboration and inclusivity, they also present challenges related to technical complexity, social dynamics, and psychological well-being. Examples of virtual worlds platforms provided by companies like AltspaceVR and Virbela demonstrate the diverse applications and capabilities of virtual environments in facilitating remote interactions and building virtual communities. As virtual worlds continue to evolve, understanding their potential benefits and limitations is essential for leveraging them effectively in modern workplaces and social contexts. 3. RFID is playing a major role in increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of supply chain management. After reading the information presented in this chapter and other sources, write a one-page paper that describes the experience of a company that has been using RFID for this purpose. What are two advantages and two disadvantages of using RFID in supply chain management? Radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology has emerged as a transformative tool for enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of supply chain management processes. This paper delves into the experience of a company leveraging RFID for supply chain management, outlines two advantages and two disadvantages of using RFID in this context. Company Experience: Company X, a global manufacturer of consumer electronics, has successfully implemented RFID technology to streamline its supply chain operations. By deploying RFID tags and readers at key points along the supply chain, including manufacturing facilities, warehouses, distribution centers, and retail stores, Company X has gained real-time visibility and traceability of its products from production to delivery. Advantages of Using RFID in Supply Chain Management: 1. Enhanced Visibility and Traceability: RFID enables Company X to track the movement and location of its products in real-time throughout the supply chain. By capturing data such as item identification, batch numbers, and timestamps automatically, RFID provides accurate visibility into inventory levels, stock movements, and order fulfillment processes. This enhanced visibility enables proactive decision-making, reduces stockouts and overstock situations, and improves inventory accuracy and fulfillment efficiency. 2. Increased Operational Efficiency: RFID automates data capture and inventory management processes, reducing manual labor and administrative overhead associated with traditional barcode-based systems. With RFID, Company X can conduct inventory counts, reconcile shipments, and monitor stock levels more efficiently, leading to faster order processing, reduced cycle times, and improved supply chain responsiveness. Additionally, RFID-enabled asset tracking and management help minimize losses, theft, and unauthorized access to goods, optimizing resource utilization and asset utilization rates. Disadvantages of Using RFID in Supply Chain Management: 1. Initial Investment and Implementation Costs: The upfront investment in RFID infrastructure, including tags, readers, software systems, and integration with existing IT infrastructure, can be significant for companies like Company X. While RFID offers long-term benefits in terms of operational efficiency and supply chain visibility, the initial capital expenditure and implementation complexity may pose barriers to adoption for some organizations, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with limited financial resources or technological expertise. 2. Data Security and Privacy Concerns: RFID technology raises concerns about data security, privacy, and potential misuse of sensitive information, particularly regarding the collection and storage of personally identifiable data associated with RFID tags. Companies like Company X must implement robust security measures, such as encryption, access controls, and data anonymization, to safeguard against unauthorized access, data breaches, and privacy violations. Additionally, regulatory compliance requirements, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in Europe, impose strict guidelines on the collection, use, and retention of personal data, adding complexity and compliance challenges to RFID deployments in supply chain management. In conclusion, Company X's experience exemplifies the transformative impact of RFID technology on supply chain management, providing enhanced visibility, operational efficiency, and asset tracking capabilities. While RFID offers advantages such as increased visibility and operational efficiency, it also presents challenges related to initial investment costs, implementation complexity, data security, and privacy concerns. By addressing these challenges and leveraging RFID's potential, companies like Company X can optimize their supply chain processes, improve inventory management, and gain a competitive edge in today's dynamic business environment. 4. Most experts believe that security and privacy risks are two of the drawbacks of the cloud computing environment. After reading the information presented in this chapter and other sources, write a one-page paper that outlines five recommendations for improving the security and privacy of information in cloud computing. Cloud computing offers unparalleled scalability, flexibility, and accessibility for businesses, but concerns about security and privacy persist. To mitigate risks and safeguard sensitive information in the cloud, organizations must prioritize robust security measures and privacy-enhancing practices. Here are five recommendations for improving the security and privacy of information in cloud computing: 1. Implement Strong Access Controls: Establish granular access controls and authentication mechanisms to regulate user access to cloud resources and data. Utilize multi-factor authentication (MFA), role-based access control (RBAC), and identity management solutions to enforce least privilege principles and prevent unauthorized access. Regularly review and update access permissions to align with organizational policies and personnel changes, minimizing the risk of insider threats and unauthorized data exposure. 2. Encrypt Data at Rest and in Transit: Employ encryption protocols to protect data both at rest and in transit within the cloud environment. Utilize encryption technologies such as Transport Layer Security (TLS) for securing data in transit between client devices and cloud servers, and implement robust encryption algorithms (e.g., AES) to encrypt sensitive data stored in cloud storage repositories. Additionally, consider leveraging client-side encryption solutions to ensure end-to-end encryption and maintain data confidentiality, even in the event of unauthorized access or data breaches. 3. Regularly Monitor and Audit Cloud Infrastructure: Deploy comprehensive monitoring and logging mechanisms to track user activities, system events, and data access within the cloud environment. Implement security information and event management (SIEM) systems, intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS), and cloud-native monitoring tools to detect suspicious behavior, anomalous activities, and potential security incidents in real-time. Conduct regular security audits, vulnerability assessments, and penetration testing to identify and remediate security vulnerabilities and compliance gaps proactively. 4. Strengthen Network Security Controls: Implement robust network security controls to protect cloud infrastructure and data from external threats and cyber attacks. Utilize firewalls, virtual private networks (VPNs), and network segmentation techniques to segregate cloud resources, control network traffic, and prevent unauthorized access from external networks. Implement security best practices such as network isolation, traffic encryption, and application-layer security to mitigate risks associated with data breaches, malware infections, and network-based attacks targeting cloud environments. 5. Ensure Compliance with Regulatory Standards: Adhere to industry-specific regulatory standards, data protection laws, and compliance frameworks governing the handling of sensitive data in the cloud. Conduct regular assessments to ensure compliance with regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), and Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS). Implement data governance policies, data classification schemes, and data retention policies to maintain data integrity, confidentiality, and regulatory compliance in cloud-based operations. In conclusion, safeguarding information security and privacy in the cloud requires a holistic approach encompassing technical controls, governance practices, and compliance measures. By implementing strong access controls, encryption protocols, monitoring mechanisms, network security controls, and compliance frameworks, organizations can mitigate risks, enhance data protection, and foster trust in cloud computing environments. Effective collaboration between cloud service providers and customers is essential to ensure a secure and privacy-respecting cloud ecosystem that meets the evolving needs of modern businesses and regulatory requirements. 5. After reading the information presented in this chapter and other sources, write a one-page paper that describes two companies (in addition to those mentioned in this book) that have been using cloud computing. Explain the advantages these companies have gained by using cloud computing and their major reasons for adopting this technology. Is cost-saving the only reason, or there were other reasons? Cloud computing has become a cornerstone technology for businesses seeking agility, scalability, and cost-efficiency in today's digital landscape. Two companies, in addition to those mentioned in this book, that have embraced cloud computing to drive innovation and gain competitive advantages are Zoom and Airbnb. 1. Zoom: Zoom, a leading provider of video conferencing and collaboration solutions, relies heavily on cloud computing to deliver seamless communication experiences to millions of users worldwide. By leveraging cloud infrastructure and services, Zoom ensures scalability, reliability, and performance for its platform, allowing users to conduct virtual meetings, webinars, and online events with ease. The advantages Zoom has gained by using cloud computing include: • Scalability: Cloud computing enables Zoom to rapidly scale its infrastructure and accommodate fluctuations in user demand, ensuring smooth performance and uninterrupted service delivery even during peak usage periods. • Global Reach: With cloud-based deployment models, Zoom can extend its services globally and reach users in diverse geographical locations without the need for costly infrastructure investments or physical data center expansions. • Innovation: Cloud computing empowers Zoom to innovate and introduce new features, functionalities, and integrations to its platform rapidly. By leveraging cloud-based development tools and services, Zoom can iterate quickly, respond to customer feedback, and stay ahead of competitors in the rapidly evolving video conferencing market. The major reasons for Zoom's adoption of cloud computing extend beyond cost-saving alone. While cost efficiency is undoubtedly a significant factor, other key reasons include scalability, global reach, innovation agility, and the ability to focus on core competencies rather than managing complex infrastructure. 2. Airbnb: Airbnb, a leading online marketplace for lodging and vacation rentals, relies on cloud computing to power its platform and deliver personalized travel experiences to millions of guests and hosts worldwide. By leveraging cloud infrastructure and services, Airbnb can scale its operations, optimize resource utilization, and enhance customer engagement. The advantages Airbnb has gained by using cloud computing include: • Elasticity: Cloud computing enables Airbnb to scale its infrastructure dynamically based on demand fluctuations, allowing the platform to handle spikes in traffic during peak booking seasons or special events without compromising performance or user experience. • Data Analytics: With cloud-based data analytics platforms, Airbnb can analyze vast amounts of user data to gain insights into customer preferences, booking patterns, and market trends. By leveraging data-driven insights, Airbnb can personalize recommendations, optimize pricing strategies, and improve overall customer satisfaction. • Innovation and Experimentation: Cloud computing provides Airbnb with the flexibility and agility to experiment with new features, services, and business models. By leveraging cloud-based development environments and testing frameworks, Airbnb can innovate rapidly, iterate on ideas, and launch new initiatives to stay competitive in the dynamic travel industry. Similar to Zoom, Airbnb's adoption of cloud computing is driven by multiple factors beyond cost-saving alone. While cost efficiency remains a consideration, scalability, data analytics capabilities, innovation agility, and the ability to focus on delivering exceptional customer experiences are equally important drivers for embracing cloud technology. 6. After reading the information presented in this chapter and other sources, write a one-page paper that identifies two companies (in addition to those mentioned in this book) that have been using biometrics. Explain the advantages of using biometrics in these companies and their major reasons for adopting this technology. What is the main difference between face recognition and other biometric measures? In addition to the examples provided in the book, two companies that have been leveraging biometrics technology are Apple Inc. and Amazon.com, Inc. Both of these tech giants have incorporated biometric authentication methods into their products and services. Apple Inc. has been a prominent user of biometrics with its introduction of Touch ID and Face ID features on its iPhone and iPad devices. These biometric authentication methods allow users to securely unlock their devices, authenticate payments, and access sensitive information using their fingerprint or facial recognition. One of the advantages of biometrics for Apple is the enhanced security it provides compared to traditional password-based authentication methods. Biometric data is unique to each individual and difficult to replicate, reducing the risk of unauthorized access to users' devices and accounts. Apple's adoption of biometrics is driven by its commitment to improving user experience, security, and convenience. Amazon.com, Inc. has also integrated biometrics into its operations through initiatives such as Amazon Go stores and Amazon Web Services (AWS) Rekognition. Amazon Go stores utilize biometric sensors and computer vision technology to enable frictionless shopping experiences, where customers can enter the store, select items, and leave without needing to check out at a traditional cashier. Biometrics play a crucial role in identifying customers and tracking their purchases, streamlining the shopping process and reducing friction points. Additionally, AWS Rekognition provides facial recognition capabilities to developers and organizations for various applications such as security, surveillance, and user authentication. The advantages of biometrics for Amazon include improved operational efficiency, enhanced customer experience, and the ability to offer innovative solutions in retail and cloud computing markets. The main difference between face recognition and other biometric measures lies in the modality used for identification. While face recognition relies on capturing and analyzing facial features such as the contours, proportions, and patterns of a person's face, other biometric measures such as fingerprint recognition, iris recognition, and voice recognition utilize different physiological or behavioral characteristics for identification. Each biometric modality has its unique advantages and limitations in terms of accuracy, convenience, and security, depending on the specific use case and environmental factors. However, face recognition stands out for its non-intrusive nature, ease of deployment, and potential for large-scale applications such as surveillance, access control, and user authentication. Are You Ready to Move On? 1. Push technology delivers content to users automatically at set intervals or when a new event occurs. Answer: True 2. Software as a Service (SaaS) and “on-demand software” use two different business models. Answer: False 3. Active RFID tags might have an internal power source and are usually more reliable than passive tags and can broadcast signals over a much wider range. Answer: True 4. Applications service providers (ASPs) use the following business model: a. PaaS b. SaaS c. IaaS d. Technology as a service Answer: b 5. Generally speaking, which one of the following is the least expensive type of cloud computing platform? a. Public b. Private c. Community d. Hybrid Answer: a 6. Which of the following wireless technologies is used to create a personal area network (PAN)? a. Infrared b. Bluetooth c. WiMAX d. Wi-Fi Answer: b Case Studies Case Study 14-1: Cloud Computing at Intercontinental Hotels Group (IHG) 1. What are some of the reasons that IHG is moving into cloud computing? IHG uses several types of cloud computing platforms to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of its operations. In addition to cost savings, the company says, it moved into cloud computing because it wanted a faster and more flexible way of getting a new system up and running and because of the cloud’s ease of integrating various applications under a single platform. 2. Which platform is used for IHG CRM applications? IHG is building a private cloud for its CRM applications using Salesforce.com’s CRM. 3. Which applications run in IHG’s private cloud? CRM applications run in IHG’s private cloud. 4. What are the three cloud delivery models used at IHG? At least three cloud delivery models are in use at IHG, including SaaS, Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), and a private cloud. Case Study 14-2: RFID at Macy’s Department Store 1. What is the goal of Macy’s omnichannel initiative? Increasing sales and profitability is the goal of any retail business, including Macy’s. To achieve this goal, Macy’s has launched an omnichannel initiative, which seeks to integrate the physical stores, the Internet, and mobile technologies. 2. With the omnichannel initiative, which three operations or technologies are integrated? With the omnichannel initiative at Macy’s, the physical stores, the Internet, and mobile technologies are integrated. 3. What is the role of RFID in the success of this initiative? RFID is the key technology behind Macy’s omnichannel strategy, allowing the company to replenish merchandise accurately and in a timely manner. 4. For which purpose is Macy’s using RFID tags within its shoe departments? Using RFID tags helps Macy’s to eliminate or reduce the incidence of missing samples. Before RFID was implemented, keeping the samples together was a time-consuming task that caused lost sales. Solution Manual for MIS Hossein Bidgoli 9781305632004, 9781337625999, 9781337625982, 9781337406925
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