Module 1 - Case Introduction to Networks (Client/Server, Peer-to- Peer, and Home/Small Office) Assignment Overview There is no question that a large part of the future of organizational information technology management involves networks and networked systems rather than stand-alone computing hardware. From about 1980 until 2000, IT was largely defined by the "personal computer," supplemented increasingly by networked resources but still largely dependent on local processing power. But there is also no doubt that organizations are becoming more dispersed, more "virtual," and more dependent than ever on collaboration technologies to sustain and support these trends. In the case for this module, we will explore some dimensions of these technologies and their impact on organizational knowledge resources. First off, if you don't know anything about computer networking or what a client/server network is in particular, it’s recommended that you start with this reasonably good short guide to network terminology (if you're already on top of this stuff, you can probably skip this one; if you need more, there are references in the optional readings to help): Wilson, J. (2015). Selecting the eight computer network. Journal of Accountancy. Retried from http://www.journalofaccountancy.com/issues/1997/feb/select.html You Tube Video, Introduction to Networking, Retrived November 19, 2012, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rL8RSFQG8do But technology is only part of the story. The concepts of socio-technical design have proved to be particularly helpful in understanding how social processes, relationships and procedures interact with technology in interesting ways. Here’s a good basic introduction to socio-technical systems thinking: Scacchi, W. (2004) Socio-Technical Design. In W. S. Bainbridge (ed.) The Encyclopedia of Human-Computer Interaction. Berkshire Publishing Group, 2004. Retrieved on December 1, 2011, from http://www.ics.uci.edu/~wscacchi/Papers/SE-Encyc/Socio- Technical-Design.pdf Now take a look at this current assessment of the real-world needs for collaboration: Annibell, B. (2010) The Future State of Collaboration. The Public Manager. Winter 2010. Retrieved on December 1, 2011, from http://www.sapient.com/assets/imagedownloader/642/POV_Future%20State%20of%20Collabor ation.pdf Case Assignment When you've had a chance to read this article, review information from the background readings and research other sources on your own, please prepare a short paper on the topic:  The social and technical features required in information networks to support effective collaboration. Assignment Expectations Your paper should be between three and five pages. Take a definite stand on the issues, and develop your supporting argument carefully. Using material from the background information and any other sources you can find to support specific points in your argument is highly recommended; try to avoid making assertions for which you can find no support other than your own opinion. You will be particularly assessed on:  Precision: Your draw on a range of sources, and to establish your understanding of the historical context of the question. You carried out the exercise as assigned, or carefully explained the limitations that might have prevented your completing some parts (running out of time isn’t generally considered an adequate limitation).  Support for assertions: You use examples, citations (especially to the required readings), and elaboration to support assertions. You provide evidence that you have read the required background materials.  Clarity: Your answers are clear and show your good understanding of the topic. You see what the module is all about and to structure your paper accordingly.  Breadth and Depth: The scope covered in your paper is directly related to the questions of the assignment and the learning objectives of the module.  Critical thinking: The paper incorporates YOUR reactions, examples, and applications of the material to business that illustrate your reflective judgment and good understanding of the concepts. It is important to read the "required readings" posted in the background material plus others you find relevant. Your informed commentary and analysis is vital -- simply repeating what your sources say does not constitute an adequate paper.  Overall quality: Your paper is well written and the references, where needed, are properly cited and listed (refer to Trident's Student Guide to Writing a High-Quality Academic Paper) if you are uncertain about formats or other issues.