HC1041 IT for Business: Discussion Activity 1 - Holmes Institute

This document presents solutions to a discussion activity for the IT for Business course, addressing key concepts such as the 'first mover' advantage, information systems, and 'bleeding edge' technology. The solution explores the advantages of being a first mover in the market, the role of information systems in business operations, and the risks associated with adopting cutting-edge technologies. The document references relevant academic literature to support its arguments. The assignment aims to evaluate the student's understanding of information technology within a business context, their ability to apply research skills, and their grasp of relevant ethical and societal issues. The content is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter, making it a valuable resource for their studies. The assignment includes a discussion of Apple's use of technology, which is offered as an example to illustrate key concepts, and offers insights into the importance of effective communication within a business environment.

Running Head: INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY 0
Computer

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY 1
Discussion Activity 1
Question 1)
Solution 1) The term “first mover” in business terms aims to attain a strategic and
insuperable market position by being first to create itself in a specified market. Since the
development of information technology and arrival of the World Wide Web, various business
enterprises have established themselves as first movers in their respective marketplace on the
Web (Markides and Sosa, 2013). One of the famous examples can be taken of Apple who
firstly introduces real touch screen technology; indeed, its control of this market may be
eroding as competitors try to out-innovate Apple.
Question 2)
Solution 2) Information systems (IS) includes various advantages with data processing from
inputs (of organisation) to make information that is helpful for managing business operations
(Melville, 2010). To raise the effectiveness of information system, more data points can be
added to generate the data more reliable or exploit the information in different ways.
In addition, a business enterprise need also open its communication channel, pay notice
towards suggestions of employees and provide recommendations to gain competitive
advantage through innovation. The organisation strategy should be focused on growth and
survival with continuity.
Question 3)
Solution 2) Bleeding edge states about the situation in which a corporate fails as it tries to be
on the technology leading edge. In other words, using of latest technology is often risky as it
has not been tested with adequate users and thus may not perform as expected. On the other
hand, there is also risk in bringing of advanced product or service as the community or user
maybe not set for it. For instance, Apple's iPhone 4 was bleeding edge technology for many
users.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY 2
References
Markides, C. and Sosa, L. (2013) Pioneering and first mover advantages: the importance of
business models. Long Range Planning, 46(4-5), pp.325-334.
Melville, N.P. (2010) Information systems innovation for environmental sustainability. MIS
quarterly, 34(1), pp.1-21.