Introductory description

The application of Information and Communication Technologies has become so widespread that all business managers must be aware of these technologies' current and future potential if they are to succeed. To apply the technologies intelligently it is crucial to have some technical understanding of what technologies and tools are available, and what facilities they offer. Students will be able to explore the architectures, application integration technologies and gain an appreciation of the security issues.

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

• Computer Networks
  Network Technologies
  Telecommunications
  Network Devices
  Network Practices

• Computer Systems
  Server Architecture (On-site, Cloud, Hybrid…)
  Enterprise Architecture Integration
  Web Services

• Computer Security
  Firewalls
  Intrusion Detection System (IDS)
  Digital Certificates
  Malware / Virus detection

• Databases
  Database Design
  Database Utilisation
  SQL script structure

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• To develop a comprehensive understanding of the principals of telecommunication technology, and its role within businesses and evaluate how it can contribute to their growth
• To develop a comprehensive understanding of computerised systems. The architecture basics of how the computer functions as the building block for the IT system
• Conceptually understand the evolution of IT systems from mainframe, client server to highly integrated systems and collaborative tools. To synthesise and justify recommendations for the application these technology options, including EAI and web services, to integrate business systems from multiple organisations
• To develop a practical understanding of how database technology can be used to store business data and to manage its availability to appropriate users.
• To clearly communicate and explain to a wider business audience potentially complex technical vulnerabilities (e.g. in OS, applications and networks), their exploitation (viruses, worms, etc.) and security technologies such as Firewalls, IDS, Virus detection, encryption, digital certificates and signatures

Indicative reading list

Tanenbaum, A. S. & Wetherall, D. J., 2011. Computer Networks. 5th ed. London: Pearson.
Hogan, R., 2018. A Practical Guide to Database Design. Chapman and Hall/CRC.
Lankhorst, M. (2017). Enterprise architecture at work: modelling, communication and analysis (4th ed.). Berlin, Germany: Springer.

Subject specific skills

IT Architecture, cloud computing, emerging technologies, networks, network technologies, databases, database design

Transferable skills

Presentation skills, research, teamwork, IT architecture, critical thinking