NaimExplain

Describe three BI applications that present the results of data analyses to users, and offer examples of how businesses and government agencies can use each of these technologies. Answer: A dashboard provides easy access to timely information and direct access to management reports. A geographic information system (GIS) is a computer-based system for capturing, integrating, manipulating, and displaying data using digitized maps. Reality mining analyzes information extracted from the usage patterns of mobile phones and other wireless devices.

Specify the BI applications available to users for data analysis, and provide examples of how each one might be used to solve a business problem at your university. Answer: Users have a variety of BI applications available to help them analyze data. These applications include multi-dimensional analysis, data mining, and decision support systems. Multidimensional data analysis, also called on-line analytical processing (OLAP), involves "slicing and dicing" data stored in a dimensional format, drilling down to greater data detail, and aggregating data. Data mining is the process of searching for valuable business information in a large database, data warehouse, or data mart. Decision support systems (DSS) combine models and data in an attempt to analyze semi-structured and some unstructured problems with extensive user involvement.

Describe and provide examples of the three different ways in which organizations use business intelligence (BI). Answer: There are three major ways that organizations use BI: - The development of one or a few related BI applications: This BI target often is a point solution for a departmental need, such as campaign management in marketing. A data mart usually is created to store necessary data. - The development of infrastructure to support enterprise-wide BI: This target supports current and future BI needs. A critical component is an enterprise data warehouse. - Support for organizational transformation. With this target, BI is used to fundamentally change how a company competes in the marketplace. BI supports a new business model and enables the business strategy.

Identify the phases in the decision-making process, and use a decision-support framework to demonstrate how technology supports managerial decision making. Answer: When making a decision, either organizational or personal, the decision maker goes through a three-step process: intelligence, design, and choice. When the choice is made, the decision is implemented. Several information technologies have been successfully used to directly support managers. Collectively, they are referred to as business intelligence information systems. Figure 10.2 provides a matrix that shows how technology supports the various types of decisions that managers must take.