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Foundations of Information Systems

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Foundations of Information SystemsSummary
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10.1 Defining Emerging Technologies

  • Emerging technology is defined as software or hardware that enhances the user experience by obtaining or using information and data in new and compelling ways. It includes novel technologies and the continuing development of existing technologies.
  • Emerging technology can be found in many areas including education, information technology, and AI, and continues to have great potential to provide synergies with other technologies of similar or different functionalities.
  • Characteristics of an emerging technology include its novelty or newness, rapid advancement, and disruptive potential.
  • Emerging technologies may be developed from a combination of private and/or public entities, such as government agencies and educational institutions.
  • Blockchain, AI, AR, and VR are all real-world applications of emerging technologies.
  • Opportunities, challenges, and risks are apparent with these technologies and should be considered for each technology.

10.2 The Evolving Frontiers of Information Systems

  • Frontiers of information systems are the latest developments in the field of information systems.
  • IS frontiers explore new research areas, innovative applications, and emerging technologies that have the potential to significantly impact the field.
  • The convergence of IS frontiers and emerging technologies provides opportunities for two or more of these technologies, like AI and data analytics, to converge, which can help organizations analyze vast amounts of data in real time and inform decision-making.
  • The opportunities, challenges, and risks associated with these information systems continue to evolve as they are further integrated for business and personal use.

10.3 Societal and Global Importance of Emerging Technologies in Information Systems

  • Emerging technologies can have far-reaching societal and global consequences.
  • The emergence of innovative technologies, such as AI-enabled customer service systems in banking, SCO machines, e-commerce-enabled websites, and solar power, has revolutionized societal interactions and affected worldwide change in economy, culture, public policy, public services, health, and the environment.
  • Data analytics tools and techniques are being applied in all aspects of society, helping organizations to leverage their functionality to support business processes.
  • Emerging technologies and innovations are expected to continue to grow globally to include data analytics, IoT, and others, with solution and service gains in the banking, financial services, and insurance sector, health care, telecommunications, and information technology.
  • Research is a precursor to innovation, and it begins with a broad idea and ends with the dissemination of findings. The idea, or concept, evolves through specific process steps to where it will be available for market use.
  • Emerging technologies will continue to evolve and so will be of great importance in research and development. As the field continues to evolve, new questions will arise, and researchers will need to work together to find answers.
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