IT504
IT504
Managing Information Technology in a Business Environment
Module Preview
This guide contains a preview of the materials for all module courses in this series:
IT504M1 Business Strategies in Information Technology
IT504M2 Laws, Rules, Regulations, and Ethical Principles in Information Technology
IT504M3 Technical Documentation
IT504M4 Organizational Functions in Information Technology
Be sure to follow the detailed directions found within the actual module course after you receive access. The content in this guide is only a preview and course content may have changed. For more information about taking module courses, visit the Traditional and Module Courses page (requires login).
Course Code IT504M1
Module Course Title Business Strategies in Information Technology
Outcome(s) IT504M1-1:Assess business strategies as aligned to technology needs through appropriate communication techniques.
Learn: Reading and Research
There is no textbook to purchase for this course; all reading is linked below and/or found in the library.
Required PDF Reading
Module 1 Reading PDF< This brief document includes important information prepared specifically for this course and should be read prior to beginning work on the Assessment.
Required Library Reading
Go to More Tools > Library and look for the Required Readings link. Note that the ebook vendor, Skillsoft, goes offline for maintenance for about two hours every Sunday from 13 p.m. ET; plan ahead. You will find these chapters brief but they contain important content.
Lets talk about it: Turning confrontation into collaboration at workMarciano, P. L. (2021).Lets talk about it: Turning confrontation into collaboration at work. McGraw-Hill. https://libauth.purdueglobal.edu/sso/skillport?context=155270
Chapter 1: Root Causes
Chapter 6: Nonverbal Communication
Chapter 10: Communication Skills and Strategies
Chapter 12: Building, Restoring, and Maintaining Healthy Relationships
You are encouraged to skim through other chapters of interest
How to be an even better manager: A complete A-Z of proven techniques and essential SkillsArmstrong M. (2021).How to be an even better manager: A complete A-Z of proven techniques and essential Skills. (11th ed.). Kogan Page. https://libauth.purdueglobal.edu/sso/skillport?context=154252
Chapter 18: How to Manage Conflict
Chapter 19: How to Deal with Office Politics
Chapter 20: How to Manage a Crisis
The business plan workbook: A step-by-step guide to creating and developing a successful businessBarrow, C., Barrow, P., & Brown, R. (2021).The business plan workbook: A step-by-step guide to creating and developing a successful business. (10th ed.). Kogan Page. https://libauth.purdueglobal.edu/sso/skillport?context=154250
Assignment 2: Strategy the Big Picture
Assignment 20: Brake-Even Analysis
You do not need to understand all the math, but some familiarity with the reasons for this kind of analysis should be gained by reading through the chapter.
Project Management for small projectsRowe, S. (2020)Project Management for small projects. Berrett-Koehler Publishers. https://libauth.purdueglobal.edu/sso/skillport?context=150138
Chapter 7: Planning for Small Projects
Chapter 8: Planning for Simple Projects
Chapter 11: Managing Multiple Small Projects
Chapter 15: Transitioning to Larger Projects
The business models handbook: Templates, theory and case studiesHague, P. (2019).The business models handbook: Templates, theory and case studies.Kogan Page. https://libauth.purdueglobal.edu/sso/skillport?context=137798
You will choose chapters from this ebook for a part of the Assessment.
Help Links and Documents
APA 7e Citation and Referencing< A quick reference guide
Competency Assessment
This Competency Assessment assesses the following outcome(s):
IT504M1-1:Assess business strategies as aligned to technology needs through appropriate communication techniques.
Business Communication and Strategies
Purpose
This Assessment includes research into communication principles, mediation techniques, and business models, plus an opportunity to create sets of rules that are necessary for a smoothly run IT workplace. Also included is practice in using and understanding the power of numbers in convincing clients. All of these strategies are important in understanding how business and IT work together for company success.
Assessment Instructions and Requirements
There are four files to develop in this Assessment: the first is a PowerPointpresentation, the second is an APA paper, and the last two are completed using provided Wordtemplates. Check the submission instructions at the bottom of this page for file naming.
File 1 Presentation: Principles, Techniques, and Models
Research: First, look for exactly two sources. These can easily be found with a quick online search. If you are not sure your source choices are appropriate, ask your professor for guidance well before submitting.
One source must explain severalprinciples of business communicationsuch as "clarity," "consider your audience," "practice," etc.
You will choose three principles from your source to explore.
The other source must explaintech support priority levels. Use search terms such as "Support ticket priorities" or "tech support service levels."
You will write your own set of priority levels using this source as a guide (but of course not copying from it).
Create: Develop a PowerPoint presentation following the instructions below. Do not add slides or change the order; follow these instructions as given.
A cover/title slide must begin the presentation.
Cover slide Write a descriptive title for your presentation (not the module or course number).
Include your name and date.
Business communication principles are presented in slides 24.
Slide 2 Briefly, define one principle in your own words, and use APA in-text citation.
Then provide an example to illustrate how it is used in the workplace.
Then explain potential consequences of violating the principle.
Slide 3 Briefly, define another principle in your own words, using APA in-text citation.
Then provide an example to illustrate how it is used in the workplace.
Then explain potential consequences of violating the principle.
Slide 4 Briefly, define a third principle in your own words, and use APA in-text citation.
Then provide an example to illustrate how it is used in the workplace.
Then explain potential consequences of violating the principle.
Tech Support processes are presented in slides 5-7.
Slide 5 Write an appropriate phone greeting and closing for calls answered by 504 Technologies Tech Support. (Write this yourself, without aid from sources.)
Slide 6 Describe priority levels for calls.
Provide this in list form and include APA in-text citation.
Slide 7 Explain what you expect Tech Support personnel to do after a call is completed. (Determine this on your own, without aid from sources.)
A final slide provides references.
Slide 8 Provide full APA reference entries for both sources.
Additional writing/content parameters:
Slides 2+ must each have a title that describes the slide content.
Slides 2-7 must each have at least 35 words.
All of the content must be written in your own words (no quoting); citation is required on slides 2, 3, 4, and 6 because theideascome from the sources.
Do not use more than the two sources explained above.
All citations and reference entries must be completed using APA 7th edition rules.
Do not copy any of the instructions into your presentation.
Design:
Use a design theme (not simply black text on a white background). You may use a design theme or PPT template found online but ensure that all slidesafterthe cover slide have the same design (consistency is important).
Do not add images beyond that which is present in your chosen design theme.
Do not use the "notes" section of the slides or add comments; all content must be visible on the slides themselves.
Do not use animation or slide transitions keep it simple.
Make sure text is not too small and font choice promotes excellent readability. Donotpresent any content in all-caps, as it significantly hinders readability.
File 2 Formal Paper: Business Goals and Technology Adoption Models
There are two parts of this document: business goals and technology adoption models. This must be presented in a Word document with APA-standard formatting and citation/referencing where indicated.
Business Goals
This part mustnotbe based on source material; use your critical thinking to develop a strong business goal and related objectives and strategies.
Scenario: 504 Technologies has been offering its specialized productivity software for about a decade and has seen excellent success. At this point in time, the CEO wants to branch out in new directions. All employees are asked to make a recommendation for a new offering and to frame the recommendation as a goal plan. During a recent meeting, the following ideas were suggested:
A special game for high schoolers to introduce them to the main 504 software
Offering training and/or certification for 504 software
Developing a new cloud-based CRM software
Adding web hosting to 504 services
Developing database software that can compete with major companies' products
Adding a line of hardware, as there is a small hardware company that is looking for a buy-out
Choose one of the above options for 504 Technologies to pursue.
Then Compose your goal plan to include the following:
A well-written goal statement that includes:
Purpose and value to the company.
Timing for goal completion (example: within 6 months).
A measurement that would signal final success.
Two major objectives (methods) to meet the goal.
At least three strategies (measurable actions) to meet each of the objectives.
Other requirements:
Use the first-level subheadingBusiness Goal Plan(bold and centered)
Write 200250 words total for this part of the Assessment.
Write in complete sentences. Use clear, direct statements, and avoid metaphors or other ambiguities.
The use of singular first person (I, me, my, myself) is not appropriate, but plural (we, us, our) is allowed.
Do not quote or copy from any sources; this section is an exercise in critical thinking, so your content should come from your own ideas.
Clearly label your goal, objectives, and strategies as such. Use the format shown below to present your ideas. You may use a bulleted list or invent a numbering system. This part of the Assessment is allowed to use single line-spacing:
Goal Statement (purpose/value, timing, final measurement for success)
Objective (method)
Strategy (measurable action)
Strategy
Strategy
Objective
Strategy
Strategy
Strategy
Technology Adoption Models
This partisto be based on source material.
Find the Hague ebook reading identified in the library reading list.
Chooseany two modelsfrom Chapters 235.
Find additional appropriate source(s) either in the library or online so that you have two sources (Hague and another) foreachof the models you examine. If you are not sure your choices are appropriate, ask your professor for guidance well before submitting.
Write: Foreachof your two chosen models, identify the model by name and explain any history associated with it (if known). Describe how the model works and how technology is involved.
Other requirements:
Use the first-level subheadingTechnology Adoption Models(bold and centered).
Use APA second-level subheadings for each of two models (bold, left-aligned). Use the name of the models as these subheadings, and do not number them.
Write 200250 words for each of your two chosen models.
Write completely in your own words, without quoting or copying from your sources, but remember to cite your sources properly using APA standards. Since you must use both the Hague book and another source, there must be at least two different citations for each model.
The use of first person (I, me, my, myself, we, us, our) is not appropriate for this part of the Assessment.
Formatting: Present both the Goals and Adoption Models in one Word document:
APA 7th-edition standard cover page, with descriptive paper title, not the course or module number. Make sure you also include appropriate header content.
Body pages with both the business goal plan and the technology adoption models research (in that order).
Reference page with APA entries for the sources used for the technology adoption models. Note that the Hague reference entry is given to you in the reading section.
Do not include an abstract or table of contents, and do not insert tables or images.
As always, do not copy any of the instructions into your document.
File 3 Report: Using Numbers to Convince
First, download the required template for this part of the Assessment:Report TemplateUse of this template isrequired. Do not alter the formatting; simply fill in the content as explained below. Failure to submit this information using the template will cause the submission to be returned to you for correction.
Scenario: Your 504 Technologies client is thinking about buying tablets or inexpensive smart phones for her traveling crew and has asked you to verify if it would be a financially good investment. The client intends to purchase five devices and thinks that using mobile technology will ultimately save her company $4000 over two years, as it will save on travel expenses and employee overtime.
There will be other costs in addition to the purchase of the devices, of course:
A monthly connection fee of $5 per month will be charged by the internet provider.
Over a period of five years, you estimate that each of the devices will need a repair that costs an average of $50.
At the end of that five-year period, you estimate the resale value of each device to be 50% of its original value (rounded to the nearest whole dollar for this exercise).
Light Research: You will need two sources for this part of the Assessment:
Shop online for a tablet or smart phone that costs between $150 and $350 (base price, not including tax or shipping). You may use any vendor's site you wish; your professor must be able to view the site without logging in, however. For your calculations, round the cost to the nearest dollar.
Find a suitable online source that explains Net Present Value.
Write and Calculate:
Add your name and the date to the template's cover page.
Product Identification:
Use the dropdown in the template to identify the device as either a tablet or a smartphone.
Fill in the device product information as indicated on page 2.
Make sure the URL is complete (not to a home page).
ROI Calculation:
Base your answer on the purchase ofall five
Assume the ROI is based on one year.
Use the base price of the devices rounded to the nearest dollar, without adding tax, shipping, or other costs.
Show your math clearly, either in paragraph or equation form. Provide an explanation (labeling), not just the numbers. Round your final percentage to the nearest whole number.
TCO Calculation:
Base your answer on the purchase of justone
The time period for this is five years.
Again, use the base price of the device rounded to the nearest dollar.
Make sure you include internet access, repairs, original costs, and resale value at the end of the time period. Do not add tax or other potential costs.
Show your math clearly, in equation, chart, or paragraph form. Provide an explanation, not just the numbers.
NPV Explanation:
Write 5080 words explaining the concept of Net Present Value.
Write this entirely in your own words. Do not copy or quote from your source.
Additional Sources:
Insert the URL to your NPV source. As this is a work document, in-text citation is not required nor appropriate in the paragraph.
File 4 Memo: Conflict
First, download the required template for this part of the Assessment:Memo TemplateUse of this template isrequired. Do not alter the formatting; simply fill in the content as explained below. Failure to submit this information using the template will cause the submission to be returned to you for correction.
There are several factors that may lead to conflict in the workplace. Check this list and think about when you may have experienced or observed these kinds of conflicts. Then chooseoneof these issues and find an appropriate online source (website, not library item) to learn more. Search hint: Use your chosen phrase below along with the word "conflict."
Leadership style
Communication style
Innovative ideas
Work habits
Job responsibilities, workload, and dependencies
Personality differences
Availability of resources
Demographics such as age, gender, education, cultural, ethnic, racial, and other differences
Then write a memo to your Tech Team. Requirements:
Explain the type of conflict and detail about how, when, and/or why this can occur as explained by your source.
Provide an example of when either you, or someone you know, experienced this kind of conflict, and what was done to mitigate the problems. Write this paragraph from experience, not source material.
Write 120-160 words (this is a memo and so should not be long).
Do not copy or quote from your source. First-person wording is allowed but keep the language formal.
Make sure you fill out all parts at the top of the template.
Do not use a salutation or a signature; this kind of information is not appropriate for memos since all of the pertinent information is in the top section.
Place the URL for your source at the bottom of the memo.
Do not use in-text citation, as it is not appropriate for work documents.
After you receive access to each module, you will be able to see the submission requirements and a Checklist Rubric for the Competency Assessment.
Course Code IT504M2
Module Course Title Laws, Rules, Regulations, and Ethical Principles in Information Technology
Outcome(s) IT504M2-2:Defend laws, rules, regulations, and ethical principles relating to technology and the workplace.
PC-4.3:Apply concepts of multiculturalism and diversity to become an agent of change.
Learn: Reading and Research
Required PDF Reading
Module 2 Reading PDF< This brief document includes important information prepared specifically for this course and should be read prior to beginning work on the Assessment.
Required Library Reading
Go to More Tools > Library and look for the Required Readings link. Note that the ebook vendor, Skillsoft, goes offline for maintenance for about two hours every Sunday from 13 p.m. ET; plan ahead. You will find these chapters brief but they contain important content.
The 5 disciplines of inclusive leaders: Unleashing the power of all of usTapia, A. T., & Polonskalia, A. (2020).The 5 disciplines of inclusive leaders: Unleashing the power of all of us.Berrett-Koehler Publishers. https://libauth.purdueglobal.edu/sso/skillport?context=151778
Chapter 1: Discipline 1 Builds Interpersonal Trust
Chapter 2: Discipline 2 Integrates Diverse Perspectives
Chapter 3: Discipline 3 Optimizes Talent
Chapter 4: Discipline 4 Applies and Adaptive Mindset
Chapter 5: Discipline 5 Achieves Transformation
Cybersecurity: A self-teaching introductionGupta, C. P., & Goyal, K. K. (2020).Cybersecurity: A self-teaching introduction. Mercury Learning. https://libauth.purdueglobal.edu/sso/skillport?context=150049
Chapter 4: Information Security Policies, Standards, and Cyber Law
Mike Meyers CompTIA Security+ Certification Passport (Exam SY0-601), Sixth EditionDunkerly, D. (2021).Mike Meyers CompTIA Security+ Certification Passport (Exam SY0-601), Sixth Edition. McGraw-Hill/Osborne. https://libauth.purdueglobal.edu/sso/skillport?context=154073
Domain 5.0: Governance, Risk, and Compliance
PCI DSS: An integrated data security standard guideSeaman, J (2020).PCI DSS: An integrated data security standard guide. Apress. https://libauth.purdueglobal.edu/sso/skillport?context=151397
Chapter 7: PCI DSS Applicability
Chapter 9: An Introduction to the PCI DSS Controls Framework
Chapter 11: Compliance a Team Effort
Designing a HIPAA-compliant security operations center: A guide to detecting and responding to healthcare breaches and eventsThompson, E. C. (2020).Designing a HIPAA-compliant security operations center: A guide to detecting and responding to healthcare breaches and events. Apress. https://libauth.purdueglobal.edu/sso/skillport?context=150207
Chapter 2: HIPAA Security Rule and Cybersecurity Operations
Chapter 5: Continuous Monitoring
Chapter 6: Incident Response
Stand out: How to build your leadership presenceGoman, C. K. (2021).Stand out: How to build your leadership presence.Kogan Page. https://libauth.purdueglobal.edu/sso/skillport?context=153369
Chapter 3: Confidence
Chapter 4: Composure
Required Web Reading
ACM Code of Ethics and Professional ConductACM Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct.(2018, June 22). Association for Computing Machinery. https://www.acm.org/code-of-ethics
The nine Belbin team rolesThe nine Belbin team roles.(n.d.). Belbin Associates. https://www.belbin.com/about/belbin-team-roles
Find StandardsFind Standards. (n.d.) IEEE Standards Association. https://standards.ieee.org/standard
Trademark, Copyright, or PatentTrademark, Copyright, or Patent.(2021, March 31). United States Patent and Trademark Office.https://www.uspto.gov/trademarks/basics/trademark-patent-copyright
Help Links and Documents
APA 7e Citation and Referencing< A quick reference guide
Google Docs: https://support.google.com/docs/answer/7068618
Google Forms: https://support.google.com/docs/answer/6281888
Competency Assessment
This Competency Assessment assesses the following outcome(s):
IT504M2-2:Defend laws, rules, regulations, and ethical principles relating to technology and the workplace.
PC-4.3:Apply concepts of multiculturalism and diversity to become an agent of change.
Developing and Enforcing Policies
Purpose
This assessment's purpose is manifold, combining technology, policy writing, ethical considerations, and the development of training materials.
Assessment Instructions and Requirements
There are several files to develop in this module. In the first part of the assessment, GoogleDocs and Forms will be used to facilitate parts of an Acceptable Use Policy and its acceptance by employees. There are links in the reading area for help with Google Docs and Forms.
An APA paper opportunity to teach others more formally about some of the important laws that govern data and the technology field. A brief employee guide about multiculturalism in the workplace and a short post-meeting report about a data breach and the ethics of using biometrics will complete the required files. Check the submission instructions at the bottom of this page for file naming.
File 1 Acceptable Use Policy
Scenario: As an IT employee of 504 Technologies, your team has been tasked with the creation of an Acceptable Use Policy (AUP). As team lead, you have taken the responsibility to begin this important document. The policy will be posted in Google Docs, and you will develop a Google Form for employees to officially accept the policy.
The Policy
The following main (but brief) sections must be included:
Overview
Purpose: Why needed
Scope: Who is affected
Acceptable activities
Unacceptable activities
Violations
Sanctions
Reporting
Link to the acceptance form
Within the policy, you must include directives/information aboutanyfourof the items in the list below. (Do not write about more than four; assume that in the real workplace, the team would complete the rest.)
Company telephones
Company email
Social media
Program downloads
Private business/internet surfing not related to the company
Company devices
Personal device use
Company media / intellectual property
Antivirus updates
Mobile storage devices
Company network, including passwords
Monitoring expectations
Overall length of the policy content you complete (all parts of the document) = 500650 words.
While review of AUPs is a good method of learning about this kind of policy, do not quote, cite, or copy from any other policy.This must be written entirely in your own wording.Policies that quote, cite, copy, or identify other sources will be returned without being graded.
Format:
A document title is required and may be as simple as "Acceptable Use Policy."
A cover page is not necessary.
You may use a generic business-like template, butdo not use an AUP template. If an AUP template is used, the Assessment will be returned without being graded.
Paragraphs must be single-spaced, with a blank line between them. Do not indent the first lines of paragraphs with this business kind of format.
Includeheadingsandsubheadings. You may use a numbering system if you like.
Consider that at least parts of your document will be lists, but still in full sentences/short paragraphs.
A link to the acceptance form must be provided in the policy document. The final version of your policy must be loaded to Google Docs. Ensure that your professor is allowed access to the policy there.
The Acceptance Form
Create a Google Form that employees would use to signal their acceptance of the policy.
Provide an appropriate title
Under the title in the "description" section:
Give a brief description of the purpose of the policy.
Include the name of the company (504 Technologies).
Include a link to the policy in Google Docs. Donotinclude the entire policy here!
Use short answers, dropdown, multiple choice, and other styles as logical and include the following in the form:
Employee's name
Employee's department (name them, such as Marketing, Accounting, etc.)
Date
Acknowledgement of the policy/acceptance
File 2 Legal and Ethical Matters (APA paper)
Scenario: The CEO of 504 Technologies has asked you to research some legal aspects of the profession with the hope a formal paper can be published on the company's intranet for others to review.
Research: Look in the library or search online to find suitable sources for each of the topics in your presentation. Some of these topics are covered in the reading, so you may like to begin with some of those sources.
For one section, you will need to find a different law on your own. It may be at the federal or state level; make sure it is not just proposed legislation but has actually become law and is stillcurrently in use. It must also directly relate in some way to technology. If you are not sure your choice is appropriate, ask your professor for guidance well before the deadline.
The paper's body must consist of the following sections:
An introductory statement.
This can be as brief as one sentence. Avoid making your paper refer to itself ("this paper"), however; be direct as to what is covered and that these are important concepts for IT professionals.
Per APA 7th edition rules, there is no heading for an introduction; the title of your paper is typed at the top of the first body page and the introduction is placed directly below it.
HIPAA
Describe HIPAA in your own words. Cite the source where you found the information.
After the description, provide an example that illustrates its importance.
Use the first-level subheadingHIPAAand provide 150-180 words for this section.
PCI DSS
Describe PCI DSS in your own words. Cite the source where you found the information.
After the description, provide an example that illustrates its importance.
Use the first-level subheadingPCI DSSand provide 150180 words for this section.
Another law
Describe the additional law you found in your own words. Identify if it is a federal law or specify the state. Cite the source where you found the information.
After the description, provide an example that illustrates its importance.
Use the name of the law or its acronym as a first-level subheading and provide 150180 words for this section.
Intellectual Property
Describe Intellectual Property in your own words. Cite the source where you found the information.
After the description, provide several examples of intellectual property and explain why it is important to protect this kind of information.
Use the first-level subheadingIntellectual Propertyand provide 150180 words for this section.
Software Licensing
Describe Software Licensing in your own words. Include the difference between proprietary, open source, and freeware, and define "copyleft." Cite the source(s) where you found the information.
Use the first-level subheadingSoftware Licensingand provide 150180 words for this section.
Additional requirements:
This Assessment document must contain:
Title page: create an APA 7th-edition standard title page with descriptive paper title, not the course or module number. Make sure you also include appropriate header content.
Body pages: include the content explained above.
Reference page: include all cited sources, using APA-standard reference entry formats.
Donotinclude an abstract or table of contents, and do not insert tables or images.
As always, do not copy any of the instructions into your document. Write formally and without first-person wording.
File 3 Multiculturalism Initiative
First, download the required template for the Assessment:Guide TemplateUse of this template isrequired. Do not alter the formatting; simply fill in the content as explained below. Failure to submit this information using the template will cause the submission to be returned to you for correction.
Scenario: As one of the top managers at 504 Technologies, you realize that there are no written definitions, rules, and procedures for the employees regarding multiculturalism. You know it is good to have a technology team made up of people who have different ideas, education, experiences, and cultural backgrounds, but want to make sure that all current and future employees in the entire company understand the meaning of diversity and your expectations in this area.
Research: Search the internet for 24 suitable sources regarding multiculturalism in the workplace. Look for principles, definitions, benefits, policies, training, and/or procedures for complaints. Review these sources to formulate your own policy. These sources must be accessible without login (and cannot be library items).
Although you must find sources, make sure you write this part of the Assessment entirely in your own words and from your understanding and creative/critical thinking. Do not cite your sources since you are not taking ideas directly from them; their purpose is to provide additional reading for the employees.
Formal writing is expected. Since this is a company policy document, plural first-person is allowed (we, us, our) but donotuse singular first-person wording (I, me, my, myself).
Write:
Add your name and the date to the template's cover page.
Policy Statement:
Write a paragraph of 80100 words that clearly express 504 Technologies' company dedication to the principles of multiculturalism.
Definitions:
Write a paragraph of 80100 words to define multiculturalism in the workplace.
Benefits:
Provide a bulleted list of 57 benefits for the employee of having a multicultural team.
Write in full sentences.
Complaint procedure:
Write a paragraph of 6090 words to describe the procedure an employee should follow if he or she feels that the policy has been violated in some way.
This is to ensure employees of their rights and responsibilities when infractions have occurred.
For More Information:
List the full URLs to the 24 sources you found that helped you develop this policy and/or are appropriate reading for additional information.
Note that the paragraphs in your template should be single-spaced, with a blank line inserted between paragraphs. It is not necessary to indent first lines for this kind of formatting.
File 4 Legal and Ethical Training for Employees
First, download the required template for the Assessment:Agenda TemplateUse of this template isrequired. Do not alter the formatting; simply fill in the content as explained below. Failure to submit this information using the template will cause the submission to be returned to you for correction.
Scenario: You have just held a meeting with 504 Technologies management about a data breach as well as the ethics of requiring employees to use biometrics for data access. The meeting attendees are business-savvy, but they leave the technology aspect to you and your team. You realize you need to write a quick report to remind them what you discussed in the meeting.
Data Breaches are sadly all too common. Choose justonekind of attack from this list for example, just a virus, not also a worm and Trojan. Then find a suitable source online (not a library item and not one that requires login information) that explains what happens in this kind of attack.
Virus, worm, or Trojan
Spyware or other malware
Impersonation (phishing, spear phishing, whaling, smishing, vishing, etc.)
Incorrectly configured access controls
SQL Injection
Brute force attack
Denial of Service attack
Malicious insider (internal hack, often perpetrated by an employee)
Identify what attack and explain it in your own words.
Include how this affects both the company and customers.
Biometrics provide an additional layer of security but can also present some ethics challenges. Chooseoneof the following biometric techniques and find an appropriate source (with easy online access for the managers to explore).
Fingerprints
Finger Geometry
Vein Patterns Recognition
Voice Recognition
Facial Recognition
Iris Recognition
Retina Scans
Heartrate Sensor
Signature Recognition
Explain the chosen biometric in terms that the managers should be able to understand.
Include the ethical use of this technology; use your critical thinking to find benefits and drawbacks.
Additional requirements:
Write 100-150 words for each part.
Do not use in-text citation or full reference entries, as it would not be appropriate for the workplace. Do include the URLs for your two sources, however.
Do not add an introduction or conclusion keep this simple.
After you receive access to each module, you will be able to see the submission requirements and a Checklist Rubric for the Competency Assessment.
Course Code IT504M3
Module Course Title Technical Documentation
Outcome(s) IT504M3-3:Prepare documentation for hardware, software, and other client-related technology decisions.
Learn: Reading and Research
Required PDF Reading
Module 3 Reading PDF< This brief document includes important information prepared specifically for this course and should be read prior to beginning work on the Assessment.
Required Library Reading
Go to More Tools > Library and look for the Required Readings link. Note that the ebook vendor, Skillsoft, goes offline for maintenance for about two hours every Sunday from 13 p.m. ET; plan ahead. You will find these chapters brief but they contain important content.
How to be an even better manager: A complete A-Z of proven techniques and essential skillsArmstrong M. (2021).How to be an even better manager: A complete A-Z of proven techniques and essential skills. (11th ed.). Kogan Page. https://libauth.purdueglobal.edu/sso/skillport?context=154252
Chapter 23: How to Persuade
Chapter 24: How to Negotiate
Chapter 32: How to Listen
Adaptable Project Management: A combination of Agile and Project Management for all (PM4A)Bentley, C. (2020).Adaptable Project Management: A combination of Agile and Project Management for all (PM4A). IT Governance. https://libauth.purdueglobal.edu/sso/skillport?context=151808
Chapter 6: Planning
Chapter 12: The Propose Phase
The influential product manager: How to lead and launch successful technology productsSandy, K. (2020).The influential product manager: How to lead and launch successful technology products.Berrett-Koehler Publishers. https://libauth.purdueglobal.edu/sso/skillport?context=146925
Chapter 2: Lead Through Influence
Chapter 3: Understand Your Customer
Chapter 5: Discover and Validate Customer Needs
Help Links and Documents
APA 7e Citation and Referencing< A quick reference guide
Competency Assessment
This Competency Assessment assesses the following outcome(s):
IT504M3-3:Prepare documentation for hardware, software, and other client-related technology decisions.
Hardware and Software Decisions
Purpose
The first part of this assessment provides an opportunity to present options to a client, explain the reasons for your choices, and include calculations. The required research will take you to vendor websites and primary sources for hardware and software needs. Importantly, the Word document produced will be suitable for the workplace in terms of organization, formatting, and presentation of ideas. Both Word and Excel are required.
The second part of the assessment provides practice in using factual evidence to persuade a client, delivered in verbal (spoken) format. You will create an mp3 audio file and provide a written transcript. For more information about audio and transcripts, please review the reading PDF. Check the submission instructions at the bottom of this page for file naming.
Assessment Instructions and Requirements
File 1 The Proposal
Scenario:
Clarice Tucker is the owner of Clarice's Clowder, a cat rescue group that has just built a small shelter facility. Now that she is working away from home at the facility, Tucker knows she can no longer rely on her personal laptop to keep records. The current idea is to purchase some computers for the incoming shelter staff as they expand operations and help homeless felines in her area.
You have discussed the possibility of BYOD (Bring Your Own Device), but the security and other risks are deemed unacceptable. While you are tempted to custom build the computers (with various parts from different vendors), Tucker is insistent on "all-in-one" packages. This means your choices are either laptops or desktop computers that have the tower, monitor, keyboard, and mouse in one package/sales deal.
Your task, then, is to create a business-like proposal that compares hardware and software products, features, and prices, and then provides a final recommendation. The focus is on the single computer, as the number of machines ultimately to be purchased has not yet been determined.
Research:
Since the focus is products, features, and prices, search in vendors' websites for sources.Do not use comparison websites;you must go straight to the vendor or primary source. If you are unsure that your source choices are appropriate, contact your professor well before the deadline.
Document components:
Cover Page
Write a suitable, descriptive title.
Identify the client's name and your name.
Include the date.
Starting on page 2, provide the followingin the order given below.
Executive Summary
In paragraph form, explain the purpose of the proposal and give a brief summary of your final recommendation. Refer to the client either by full name or Ms. Tucker. Required length: 5080 words.
Hardware Recommendations
Compare two different laptop or all-in-one desktop computers by identifying at least four (4) important features (not costs) of each and placing them in a Word table.
Under the Word table, provide the costs for each and the URLs to the vendors' pages where you found this information.
Write a paragraph of 5080 words to explain why one is a better choice for the client than the other. Do not do additional research for this paragraph; use your critical thinking skills.
Operating System Recommendation
Write a paragraph of 5080 words in which you choose an operating system for the client's computers. Justify your reasoning.
Under the paragraph, provide the URL to the vendor's page along with the cost.
Productivity Software Recommendations
Compare Microsoft Office tooneof these open-source suites: Google Docs/Sheets/Slides, OpenOffice, or LibreOffice. Use a Word table for this comparison and include pertinent information about word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations. Make sure you go to primary sources,nota comparison site, so this comparison is created by you.
Under the Word table, provide the costs for each and the URLs to the vendors' pages where you found this information.
Write a paragraph of 5080 words that explains which suite you have chosen for the client and why. Do not do additional research; use your critical thinking skills.
Antivirus Software Recommendation
Compare two antivirus products. Use a Word table to show at least three (3) feature comparisons. Do not choose a free option. Make sure you go to primary sources,nota comparison site, so this comparison is created by you.
Under the Word table, provide the costs for each and the URLs to the vendors' pages where you found this information.
Write a paragraph of 5080 words that explains which of these you have chosen for the client and why. Do not do additional research; use your critical thinking skills.
Final Recommendation
Develop an Excel worksheet in which you show one-year costs of your computer choice, operating system, productivity suite, and antivirus software. An example is shown in the Reading PDF.
For items that incur monthly costs, show a 12-month price, with "12" being the "quantity."
Label all input appropriately.
All line totals must be calculated by formula.
Add the costs together via formula. Apply conditional formatting to this total cost cell, providing color if the total is more than a value you choose. (See the Reading PDF for conditional formatting information.)
For a clean look, turn off gridlines.
Develop another such Excel table in which you show the costs of the other computer you used for comparison earlier in the document, the same operating system, the other productivity suite, and the other antivirus software.
Use the same formatting for this worksheet; the changes should be only in labeling and numeric input.
Time-saving hint: Once you have created the first table, copy, and paste it, and then change the input to correctly identify the items and costs.
Embed these tables in your Word document. Embedding instructions are in the Reading PDF. Screenshots, Word tables, or linked files will not be accepted for this part of the Assessment.
Provide a summary of your final choices and why they are appropriate for the client, writing one paragraph of 5080 words.
Format:
Use a business-style Word template. Your professor may provide links to suitable templates in the announcements, Seminar, and/or email. Ensure that your template choice is "report" form (not newsletter or brochure), that is in portrait orientation, and pages are letter size (8.5" x 11").
An image may be included on the cover page, but in no other part of the document.
Use subheadings. Copy them from the instructions above.
Single-space paragraphswithoutfirst-line indentation and leave a blank line between paragraphs and sections for readability.
Do not add sections. Complete the document exactly as assigned.
Writing:
Use formal language.
First-person writing is not appropriate.
Write in your own words; do not quote or copy from sources.
As this is a workplace document and not an APA paper, provide the URLs as instructed.
Do not use in-text citation or write reference entries.
As always, do not copy any of the instructions into your document (except for the aforementioned subheadings).
Files 2 and 3 The Art of Persuasion
First, download the required template for the Assessment:Transcript TemplateUse of this template isrequired. Do not alter the formatting; simply fill in the content as explained below. Failure to submit this information using the template will cause the submission to be returned to you for correction.
Scenario: Your role at 504 Technologies is currently as head of Security Programs. A new client company, SellYou, is a marketing firm headed by Tom Bernstein. SellYou struggled at first during the pandemic of 2020 but survived by allowing its employees to work from home. This turned out to be a positive change, and now the employees can work from home on a permanent basis. The company had only ten employees at first but is expanding into new markets; a total of 25 employees is expected in the near future (with no plans beyond that at this time).
Bernstein has required that home-based employees use company laptops, but now some employees are asking to use their own devices. This could potentially include desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones. Bernstein has asked if he can call you in a few days to learn if Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) might be an appropriate policy; he is currently working overseas and can only spare between 90 seconds and 2 minutes to discuss this. You have time to prepare for the phone call, so you practice your persuasive speech by writing a transcript and creating an audio file.
Your plan is to use this time to either "sell" the BYOD concept or to convince Bernstein to continue requiring company-owned devices. Make your decision by examining the benefits and drawbacks of BYOD and taking the specific circumstance into consideration. No matter what your recommendation is, you plan to also include a quick overview of the need to keep antivirus software up to date on all internet-connected devices.
Light Research:
Find an online source (not a library item and not one that requires login information) that explains the benefits and drawbacks of BYOD policies.
You may include the required antivirus information without source material if you already understand the concept, but if you use source material, choose something from the web to be able to include the URL in your transcript document.
Write: First, read through the rest of these instructions before beginning work on the transcript. Then prepare, practice, and produce your telephone speech:
1. Prepareyour transcript in the provided template, writing in full sentences. This is not a client you know well yet, so remain formal in your word choice and approach. Keep in mind the timing parameter of 90 seconds to 2 minutes. Include the following, in order:
Introduction:
Start with a greeting (call him Mr. Bernstein), your name, and that you work for 504 Technologies.
BYOD information:
Explain benefits of BYOD.
Explain drawbacks of BYOD.
Promote the direction you believe SellYou should go in terms of employee device use.
Additional security information:
Explain the need for antivirus what it does, why it should be up-to-date, and why it matters irrespective of the BYOD decision.
Conclusion:
Thank the client for the phone call and opportunity to work with him.
As you write the transcript, make sure you use apersuasivetone with your word choice but avoid overt emotional content and manipulation. More information is found in the Reading PDF about persuasion relying on factual evidence.
Sources: At the bottom of the transcript document, provide the full URL to your source about BYOD (this is required). Include the full URL to any source material you needed to review about antivirus as well (this is optional).
2. Practicereading your transcript before you record it. Try not to speak too quickly or too slowly. Enunciate clearly and keep a steady volume but try to avoid a monotone delivery. Make changes in your transcript as you practice so that your final audio recording is as smooth as possible, and so you fit the audio comfortably in the 90 second to 2-minute strict time frame.
3. Produceyour audio file. The file you submit must be in mp3 or m4A format. Practice with the microphone and try to avoid extraneous background noise.
Complete the transcript by filling in the name, date, and length of your recording. In the Sources section, provide the URL to your online source. Make sure your transcript matches what is spoken; do not "talk off-script" or improvise.
After you receive access to each module, you will be able to see the submission requirements and a Checklist Rubric for the Competency Assessment.
Course Code IT504M4
Module Course Title Organizational Functions in Information Technology
Outcome(s) IT504M4-4:Determine hiring, funding, and other functions within an organization.
Learn: Reading and Research
Required PDF Reading
Module 4 Reading PDF< This brief document includes important information prepared specifically for this course and should be read prior to beginning work on the Assessment.
Required Library Reading
Go to More Tools > Library and look for the Required Readings link. Note that the ebook vendor, Skillsoft, goes offline for maintenance for about two hours every Sunday from 13 p.m. ET; plan ahead. You will find these chapters brief but they contain important content.
High-tech high-touch recruiting: How to attract and retain the best talent by improving the candidate experienceBruno, B. (2021).High-tech high-touch recruiting: How to attract and retain the best talent by improving the candidate experience. Kogan Page. https://libauth.purdueglobal.edu/sso/skillport?context=153367
Chapter 1: Start with Updating the Hiring Process
Human Resource practiceMartin, M., & Whiting, F. (2021).Human Resource practice.(8th ed.). Kogan Page. https://libauth.purdueglobal.edu/sso/skillport?context=153371
Chapter 5: Recruitment and Selection
How to be an even better manager: A complete A-Z of proven techniques and essential skillsArmstrong M. (2021).How to be an even better manager: A complete A-Z of proven techniques and essential skills. (11th ed.). Kogan Page. https://libauth.purdueglobal.edu/sso/skillport?context=154252
Chapter 29: How to Conduct a Selection Interview
Chapter 30: How to Be Interviewed for a Job
Help Links and Documents
APA 7e Citation and Referencing< A quick reference guide
Competency Assessment
This Competency Assessment assesses the following outcome(s):
IT504M4-4:Determine hiring, funding, and other functions within an organization.
Hiring, Interviewing, and Other Employer and Employee Responsibilities
Purpose
This assessment provides practice in organizing processes and activities related to hiring IT personnel and dealing with professional development as an employee. Research is not required. The final products will be worthy of practical use in the workplace environment.
Assessment Instructions and Requirements
There are four parts of this assessment: (1) development of a process, (2) writing a job description, (3) formulating interview questions, and (4) a block-style business letter to your boss asking for funds for professional development. Each must be presented in a separate Word document, with formatting and document names that would be appropriate for the workplace. Check the submission instructions at the bottom of this page for file naming.
Donotformat your documents to look anything like APA papers.
Paragraphs should be single-spaced with a blank line between paragraphs. Indenting first lines is therefore not needed because it is clear where new paragraphs begin.
Lists should be single-spaced.
Do not include a running head or other APA style elements.
It is acceptable but not required to have a cover page for your documents. If you choose to do this, use the same cover for all three documents for the sake of consistency (as you would in the workplace for branding purposes) and make sure the cover pages do not look like APA papers.
As always, do not copy any of the instructions into your document.
Formality, neatness, clear organization, and readability are expected.
Parts 1, 2, and 3
Scenario: You are now one of the top IT managers for 504 Technologies (congratulations!) and realize the need for hiring a new tech employee. The company has not yet set up a hiring process and the CEO has tasked you with creating one before writing the job description and planning for interviews.
For all three parts:
You may also like to review source materialfor general ideas, but the first three parts of this Assessment need to come from your own experiences, understanding, and critical thinking. Direct use of source material is not allowed.
Format each document so that it looks professional and is highly readable. Do not include title/cover pages (which would just be wasted paper in the workplace).
In each document, include your first and last names under the content to identify yourself as the author.
As you save your work, use a logical,descriptivename for each file. Donotinclude the course number, module number, or your name.
Check the Reading PDF for additional information before beginning this Assessment.
Document 1 A Hiring Process
Content:
Write a suitable descriptive title in the document.
Include at leastsixdistinct steps.
Provide enough detail so that someone else would be able to easily understand and follow all steps and sub-steps of this process.
Other instructions:
Write in complete sentences, and present your process in anumbered list
This document must contain 200250 words. Should you find this difficult to attain, include your reasoning for the steps.
Document 2 IT Job Description
Preparation: Choose a career from the following list. If you wish to investigate an IT career not on this list, you must receive prior permission from the professor (ask via email). Note that the professor reserves the right to deny requests, and if this occurs, will give you a reason.
Computer Programmer
Cybersecurity Specialist
Database Administrator
Graphics/Multimedia Designer
Information Security Analyst
IT Project Manager
Network Administrator
Tech Support/Help Desk
Webmaster
Content (see the Reading PDF for more information):
Job title
Company information - invent a company description (do not copy from the course).
Job description
Responsibilities
Qualifications both required and preferred
Working conditions
Benefits
Other instructions:
Do not include a salary or a salary range.
This will be a combination of a few paragraphs and several lists. Review the Reading PDF for this information.
This document must contain 200250 words.
Document 3 Interview Questions
Content:
Write a suitable descriptive title in the document.
Identify the job for which these questions are relevant. This must match the job description you wrote for Document 2.
Developsix(6) interview questions that the manager will ask candidates who are invited for interviews.
Write meaningful questions that will help you focus on the candidate's qualifications and suitability for the job that you advertised. Assume you already know the person's name and that you will not be asking simple questions that should be found in his/her resume.
Writeopen-ended questions(see the Reading PDF).
Do not ask illegal or unethical questions (see the Reading PDF).
Do not use source material; it is okay to peruse online ideas, but again, you must write this entirely in your own words and use your critical thinking.
For each of your six questions, explain what you intend to learn from the candidate's answers. Examples are given in the Reading PDF.
Other instructions:
Write in complete sentences and present your questions in list form. Reasoning should follow each question. You may use the bulleted format shown in the Reading PDF examples.
There is no designated length for this document except for ensuring that you have six complete questions accompanied by reasons for asking them.
Document 4Request funds for Professional Development
First, download the required template for the Assessment:Letter TemplateUse of this template isrequired. Do not alter the formatting; simply fill in the content as explained below. Failure to submit this information using the template will cause the submission to be returned to you for correction.
Scenario: As an employee of 504 Technologies, you are expected to continue learning through professional development activities. Acertificationwould be nice to add to your resume as well but taking training courses and paying for the exams is not in your personal budget. You have decided to ask your boss Ms. Nguyen if she will provide you with some professional development funds and allow you the time you need during the work week to get started on this new venture.
Make sure you choose acertification; these are focused on specific IT topics, offered by vendors such as CompTIA, Oracle, etc., and typically based on passing an exam. Do not choosecertificates, which are education-based programs most often offered by schools. If you are unsure that your choice is appropriate, email the professor well before the deadline to ask for guidance.
Research: For this letter, choose a career from the list below and research to find a suitable professional certification. If your desired technology career is not listed, contact your professor; prior permission must be granted before being allowed to focus on a non-listed field.
Cloud Engineering
Cybersecurity
Data Analytics
Database Administration
Graphic Design
Hardware Engineering
Information Security Analyst
IT Project Management
Network Architect/Administration
Software Development/Programming
Systems Analysis
Web Development
As you research, make sure you locate theprimarysource, which would be the vendor that owns the certification, not a school, training center, testing center, journal article, news, or informational website. Only the primary source will have truly accurate and up-to-date information.
Write in the template:
Insert the date.
Under Ms. Nguyen's name (where it is indicated), write your letter. Include:
A paragraph about your current work within the career you chose. (It is fine to invent this; you just need to know the kinds of things the chosen IT career entails.)
A paragraph about the certification you wish to earn,focusing on how earning this would benefit the company.
A paragraph requesting the funds you need. Include the cost of the exam and how long it might take before you would be ready to take the exam.
Optional: Include the cost of taking a training course. This would necessitate locating one online so that the cost is correctly stated.
A final paragraph thanking your boss for considering this request.
Then present these three items on separate lines:
A closing such as Sincerely yours,
Your first and last names
The career you chose
Lastly, place the URL to theprimarycertification site in the provided part of the template.
If you also requested funds for a training class, provide the URL for this as well.
Other requirements:
Write 220260 words for the body of your letter.
Do not quote or copy from sources; write this entirely in your own words after developing an understanding of the certification requirements.
Write formally. Even though you may know your boss on a personal level, she may need to pass the better to a committee or the CEO for final approval.
Keep all content left-aligned. Single-space paragraphs, leaving a blank line between each paragraph for readability. Do not indent the first line of paragraphs.
As this is a business letter, do not cite your source and provide only the URL as the reference.
Important: You may have already explored certifications in other classes. Ensure that you donotreuse parts of any assignments from other courses; this must be written as new work. Submissions that include work originally created for a previous class will be returned without being graded.
After you receive access to each module, you will be able to see the submission requirements and a Checklist Rubric for the Competency Assessment.
