IT for Business: Exploring GIS, DSS Models, and Data Protection Laws

This assignment provides answers to questions related to global information systems (GIS), decision support systems (DSS), and data protection in the context of IT for Business. It defines global information systems and discusses the challenges of complying with EU data protection laws. The assignment explains decision support systems and the role of models in processing data, providing examples of descriptive and analytical models. It also defines sensitivity tests and offers examples like regression analysis and scatter plots. Furthermore, the assignment explores the use of geographic information systems for scheduling classes, using gvSIG as an example. The document is available on Desklib, a platform offering a range of study tools for students, including solved assignments and past papers.

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1. What is meant by the term ‘global information systems’?
Global information systems (GIS) are systems which are developed and designed for use in a
global context. Global information systems have a mission to deliver data which is measurable in a
worldwide area based on a defined context (Sangwan, Bass, Mullick, Paulish, Kazmeier 2006, p.
15)
2. The European Union has stricter privacy laws than the United States, and not many US
companies are willing to comply with the EU Directive on Data Protection. How would
you resolve the conflict?
Data protection is an issue that is under contention. The EU is strict on privacy laws because they
are more inclined to protect the data of their citizens. They wish to keep companies accountable on
protecting the data of its users. There are many US companies which are not as strict with data
protection. In order to resole this conflict US companies should understand why data protection is
so strict. They should be more alert in protecting the data they collect because if it falls in the wrong
hands it can cause havoc to a user (Bocij 2004, p. 268).
3. Decision Support Systems use models to process data. Explain what a model is. Give two
examples.
A model is a defined or structured framework that is utilized in the achievement of a specified task.
The model is in place to ensure that a specified manner or process is followed to achieve a desired
outcome. There are various types of models which include descriptive and analytical models.

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Descriptive models usually describe the logical relationship that exists between different parts of a
system, the way in which the various parts of a system are interconnected and the components and
functions they perform (Wright & Sittig 2008, p. 982). Analytical models are used to describe
relationships of a mathematical nature that support the quantifiable analysis of the system
parameters.
4. What is a sensitivity test? Give two example.
A sensitivity test is a process whereby the uncertainty of the output within a system or model can be
apportioned to varied sources of uncertainty within its inputs (Macmillan & Creelman 2004, p. 7).
Examples of a sensitivity test include regression analysis and scatter plots.
5. How could you use a Geographic information System to schedule your classes? Give an
example.
A geographic information system is designed with the purpose of storing, capturing, analyzing,
manipulating, presenting and managing spatial geographic data (Bolstad 2005, p. 543). The
geographic information system will be able to map the locations of the various classes you attend
then with the input of class time and location it will present the data in a format on a map that is
easily understood by a user. It is also very efficient because it enables users not to get lost as they
find their way to their classes (Tomlinson 2005, p. 328). An example of a geographic information
system is gvSIG. GvSIG can be used to reference geographic information for the purpose of solving
planning problems and management of complex problems (Mennecke & Lawence 2001, p.45).
Reference List

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Bocij P. 2004. Cyberstalking: Harassment in the Internet Age and How to Protect Your Family.
Greenwood Publishing Group. p. 268.
Bolstad P. 2005. GIS Fundamentals: A first text on Geographic Information Systems, Second
Edition. White Bear Lake, MN: Eider Press, p. 543.
Macmillan N. A. & Creelman C. D. 2004. Detection Theory: A User's Guide. Psychology Press. p.7
Mennecke B. E. & Lawence A. W. 2001. Geographic Information Systems in Developing
Countries: Issues in Data Collection, Implementation and Management. Journal of Global
Information Management. p. 45.
Sangwan R., Bass M., Mullick N., Paulish D.J., Kazmeier J. 2006. Global Software Development
Handbook, Auerback Publications. p. 15.
Tomlinson R. F. 2005. Thinking About GIS: Geographic Information System Planning for
Managers. ESRI Press. p. 328.
Wright A. & Sittig D. 2008. "A framework and model for evaluating clinical decision support
architectures. Journal of Biomedical Informatics. p. 982.