bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Scalable QoS-Aware Web Services Management Architecture (QoSMA)
Authors: Serhani M. Adel , Badidi Elarbi , Mohamed-Salem Mohamed Vall O.
Published: May 2011

As Web services are growing rapidly and as their adoption by a large number of business organizations is increasing, scalability and performance management of Web services environments are of paramount importance. This chapter proposes a scalable QoS-aware architecture, called QoSMA, for the management of QoS-aware Web services. The aim of this architecture is to provide QoS management support for both Web services’ providers and consumers. The proposed architecture is based on the commonly-used notion of QoS brokerage service. The QoS broker mediates between service requestors and service providers. Its responsibilities include performance monitoring of Web services, supporting users in Web services selection based on their QoS requirements, and the negotiation of QoS issues between requestors and providers. The QoSMA architecture provides the following benefits: First, it allows the automation of QoS management and QoS monitoring for both providers and clients. Second, the scalability of the architecture allows for better handling of the increasing demand while maintaining the pre-agreed-on QoS between service requestors and providers.
Relay Race Methodology (RRM)
Authors: Abu-Taieh Evon M.O. , Rahman El Sheikh Asim Abdel , Abu Tayeh Jeihan
Published: May 2011

This chapter introduces a suggested system development life cycle “relay race methodology” (RRM). The RRM is based on the philosophy of relay race, where each runner in the race must hand off the baton within a certain zone, usually marked by triangles on the track race. This chapter is comprised of nine sections. First, it shows the relationship between software and wicked problems. Then the chapter explains the motivation for analysis and design for simulation system projects. Furthermore, the chapter gives an overview of the reasons behind simulation project failures. Next, the chapter shows the sources for simulation inaccuracies and the project management issues in simulation. Subsequently, the chapter explains the proposed RRM life cycle. Consequently, the chapter presents the advantages and disadvantages of the proposed RRM life cycle, while relating the RRM to the risk factors. Finally, the chapter compares RRM to different life cycles.
Data Dictionary
Authors: Shoval Peretz
Published: May 2011

This chapter explains the roles of a data dictionary (DD) in the development of the information system (IS) and describes its components. The chapter presents a possible implementation of the data dictionary both with the relational and the object oriented (OO) models. A DD is a database or repository of data on the products of the analysis and design phases. It is initially created during the analysis phase, containing details about the components of the object oriented data flow diagram (OO-DFD) and the data elements carried by their various dataflows. But it will be updated and extended throughout the design phase to include details about the products of that phase too. The DD is essential in the development of large-scale systems because it enables its users (analysts and designers) to define, save, and retrieve, in a standard manner, various details of the analysis and design products, details which are not included in those products. A DD can be implemented as a relational database consisting of tables, or as an OO database consisting of object classes. This chapter describes the components of a DD using both models. Obviously, at this stage we only describe the components which are created at the analysis phase.
Trust Management Tools
Authors: Grandison Tyrone
Published: May 2011

After entering the realm of computing over a decade ago, the term trust management has evolved to encompass many concepts and mechanisms that bring it closer to its intuitive interpretation. This chapter will outline the evolution and present the catalyst(s) for each phase in its metamorphosis. In each stage, trust management tools were constructed to showcase the current understanding in the field. These tools will be discussed and their strengths, domains of application, and scope for improvement presented. The foundation of trust management technology can be found in security notions, for example credentials, in mathematical computation and in formal (and informal) reputation models. Each of these categories and their hybrids will be highlighted. This chapter should leave the reader with (1) a holistic view of the trust management problem, (2) a clear differentiation of trust management from other fields (and terms) in the computer security arena, and (3) knowledge of the appropriate domain of usage for each system.
Global Governance and the Local Internet
Authors: Ibrahim Y.
Published: May 2011

The Internet is often thought of as a unified technology that transcends traditional geopolitical boundaries. For this reason, early discussions of the Internet often advocated the idea that nation states would have either limited or no control over this exclusively electronic domain. The subsequent need for protocols and standardization of the Internet, however, led to the development of formal institutions such as the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN). It also led more nations to adopt policies designed to promote, control, and mold the Internet culturally and politically within their jurisdictional boundaries. The trajectory of the Internet’s history and global governance nevertheless reveals the increasing encroachment of the nation-states in shaping the Internet as a local entity. This chapter outlines the characteristics and intrinsic qualities of the Internet which make it a global entity and how it has been deemed ungovernable in the conventional terms.
Patterns of Collective Behavior in Ocsid
Authors: Helin Joni , Kellomäki Pertti , Mikkonen Tommi
Published: May 2011

This chapter presents an abstraction mechanism for collective behavior in reactive distributed systems. The mechanism allows the expression of recurring patterns of object interactions in a parametric form, and the formal verification of temporal safety properties induced by applications of the patterns. The abstraction mechanism is defined and compared to Design patterns, an established software engineering concept. While there are some obvious similarities, because the common theme is abstraction of object interactions, there are important differences as well. The chapter discusses how the emphasis on full formality affects what can be expressed and achieved in terms of patterns of object interactions. The approach is illustrated with the Observer and Memento patterns.
Supply Chain Risk Management
Authors: Blecker Thorsten , Kersten Wolfgang , Spath Hagen , Koeppen Birit
Published: May 2011

This chapter introduces a game-theoretic approach to supply chain risk management. The focus of this study lies on the risk of a single supply chain member defecting from common supply chain agreements, thereby jeopardizing the overall supply chain performance. The chapter goes on to introduce a manual supply chain game, by which dynamic supply chain mechanisms can be simulated and further analyzed using a game-theoretic model. With the help of the game-theoretic model, externalities are identified that negatively impact supply chain efficiency. The conclusion drawn from this chapter is that incentives are necessary to overcome these externalities in order to align supply chain objectives. The authors show that the game-theoretic model, in connection with the supply chain game presented, provides an informative basis for the future development of incentives by which supply chains can be aligned in order to reduce supply chain risks.
Innovations in Collaborative Web Design
Authors: Evers Madelon
Published: May 2011

In this chapter we analyse the link between multidisciplinary design and team learning, which, we argue, need to be supported in equal measure during Web design projects. We introduce a new approach to collaborative Web design, called the “Design and Learning Methodology,” as a way to support these two processes. The approach involves many stakeholders, including future website users, in design decision-making. It structures stakeholder participation through multidisciplinary design teams (MDTs). It uses professional facilitators to guide design and learning processes. Facilitation tools are drawn from a combination of action learning methods, which help MDTs reflect and act on new knowledge gained from design experiences, and human-centred design, which is an international protocol for achieving quality in interactive systems design (ISO 9000 series). Based on our research, we describe how facilitation of the process of learning from design contributes to continuous improvement in collaborative competencies needed for Web design.
Knowledge Management Gap
Authors: Chan Ivy , Chau Patrick Y.K.
Published: May 2011

Knowledge increasingly is recognized to provide a foundation for creating core competences and competitive advantages for organizations, making effective knowledge management (KM) crucial and significant. Despite evolving perspectives and rigorous endeavors to embrace KM intentions in business agendas, it is found that organizations always cannot realize expected benefits and improve their performances. This study reports a case study of an organization in Hong Kong that shares the typical characteristics of other organizations with strong awareness and expectation of KM yet experienced failure of its program in two years. Our findings showed that KM activities carried out in the organization were fragmented and not supported by members. Based on this failure case, four lessons learned are identified for improving KM performance.
Impacts of Behavior Modeling in Online Asynchronous Learning Environments
Authors: Chen Charlie C. , Harris Albert L. , Olfman Lorne
Published: May 2011

The continued and increasing use of online asynchronous learning (OAL) environments for training raises the question whether behavior modeling, the most effective training method in live instruction, will prove to be effective in OAL environments. If it is effective, to what extent will it be effective? In this study, behavior modeling training was delivered in three modes: face-to-face, videotaped, and scripted. Each behavior modeling mode expresses social presence to a different degree, and therefore could impact both learning performance and the willingness of students to take online asynchronous training. This study reports on the effect of behavior modeling modes on three variables in an OAL environment, perceived usefulness, near-knowledge, and far-knowledge transfer, when learning a software application. Nine hypotheses were proposed. Four hypotheses were supported and five were not. This research found that the face-to-face environment is not significantly more effective than an OAL environment. The impacts of social presence seem to be higher in face-to-face OAL environments. Although videotaped instruction and scripted instruction were lower than face-to-face instruction, they deliver same degrees of social presence and lead to similar satisfaction level.
E-Government Adoption in Canadian Municipal Governments
Authors: Reddick Christopher G.
Published: May 2011

This study examines Ontario, Canada’s municipal e-government adoption. This chapter specifically focuses on how e-government has increased citizen-initiated contacts with these local governments. This study uses survey data of these local governments to determine the key factors that predict increased citizen contact with e-government. What these municipal governments most commonly are doing is informational e-government, such as providing downloadable forms for manual completion. Transactional e-government is done less often, with very few local governments offering online payment of taxes, for example. The regression results indicated that offering more online services or e-services and having a separate information technology (IT) department developing the e-government budget increased citizen contact with e-government. The traditional factors that are used to explain citizen-initiated contact, such as socioeconomic status of the community, were not found to have any impact on increasing citizen contact with e-government.
Determinant of Information Quality and Use of Executive Information Systems (EIS) in UK
Authors: Khalil Omar E.M. , Elkordy Manal M.
Published: May 2011

This chapter reports on the findings of research investigating the influence of information quality on EIS information use as well as the possible impact of ease of use, user involvement, IS maturity, and system sophistication on EIS information quality. To test the research hypotheses, data were collected from 216 U.K.-based executives. A structural equation modeling (SEM) technique for data analysis and model measurement was applied. Information quality was found to influence EIS information use. Also, ease of use, user involvement, the IS integration dimension of IS maturity, and EIS sophistication were found to influence executives’ perception of information quality. Further findings, limitations, and implications for researchers and practitioners are discussed.
Factors Affecting Design Decisions for Customer Relationship Management Data Warehouses
Authors: Cunningham Colleen , Song Il-Yeol
Published: May 2011

Customer relationship management (CRM) is a strategy that integrates concepts of knowledge management, data mining, and data warehousing in order to support an organization’s decision-making process to retain long-term and profitable relationships with its customers. Key factors for successfully implementing CRM (e.g., data quality issues, organizational readiness, customer strategies, selection of appropriate KPIs, and the design of the data warehouse model) are discussed with the main thrust of the chapter focusing on CRM analyses and the impact of those analyses on CRM data warehousing design decisions. This chapter then presents a robust multidimensional starter model that supports CRM analyses. Additional research contributions include the introduction of two new measures, percent success ratio and CRM suitability ratio by which CRM models can be evaluated, the identification/ classification of CRM queries, and a preliminary heuristic for designing data warehouses to support CRM analyses.
E-Government Implementation Framework and Strategies in Developed vs. Developing Countries
Authors: Chen Y. N. , Chen H. M. , Huang W. , Ching R. K.H.
Published: May 2011

Given the fact that more and more governments invest heavily in its design and implementation, e-government has become an evolving and important research area in the IS field. Recent studies have shown an increase in the adoption of e-government by various countries (e.g., Archer, 2005; I-Ways, 2005; Janssen, rotthier, & Snijkers, 2004). Most, if not all, currently published e-government strategies are based on successful experience from developed countries, which may not be directly applicable to developing countries. Based on literature review, this study summarizes main differences between developed and developing countries in various aspects. In addition, this study identifies key factors for a successful e-government implementation and proposes an e-government implementation framework. As a demonstration, we follow the guidance of the proposed framework in conducting a case study to analyze the implementation strategies of e-government in developed and developing countries.
Examining User Perception of Third-Party Organization Credibility and Trust in an E-Retailer
Authors: Wakefield Robin L. , Whitten Dwayne
Published: May 2011

Despite the fact that over half of U.S. residents are now online, Internet users hesitate to enter into transactions with e-retailers in the absence of certain assurances. Recent IS research shows that institution- based assurance structures, such as Web seals, are drivers of online trust. We extend the research in online trust to include the effect of third-party organization (TPO) credibility on both Internet users’ perceptions of assurance structures and purchase risk. Findings indicate that TPO credibility is positively related to the value that Internet users assign to assurance structures and negatively related to perceptions of purchase risk. Furthermore, perceptions of TPO credibility are strongly associated with users’ trusting attitudes toward the e-retailer. For some online consumers, trust may have less to do with privacy and security and more to do with the reputation of the TPO. These findings have important implications for the design of Web sites, the selection of assurance providers and services, and the reputation of both e-retailers and providers.
Indigenous Knowledges and Worldview
Authors: Iseke-Barnes Judy M. , Danard Deborah
Published: May 2011

This chapter explores how representations of indigenous peoples on the Internet and other media are contextualized according to an outsider worldview, and that much of the information about indigenous peoples accessed through virtual media lack the original context in which to position the information. This means that the information is completely distanced from the indigenous peoples whom the information is purported to represent. This is problematic when representations of indigenous peoples are defined by dominant discourses which promote bias and reinforce stereotypes. With the increase of technology and the race to globalization, symbols are being reconstructed and redefined to connect and create a global identity for indigenous peoples. The consequences of this further the current practices of erasing and reconstructing indigenous history, language, culture and tradition through control and commodification of representations and symbols. This removal from history and community ensures continued silencing of indigenous voices. Although these misrepresentations continue to frame the discourse for indigenous peoples in Canada, it is time for indigenous peoples to reclaim and resist these representations and for outsiders to stop creating social narratives for indigenous peoples which support western hegemony.
Ndjebbana Talking Books
Authors: Auld Glenn
Published: May 2011

Members of the Kunibídji community are the traditional landowners of the land and seas around Maningrida, a community in Arnhem Land in Northern Australia. With very few exceptions, Ndjébbana is only spoken by the 150 Kunibídji community members of Maningrida, although Maningrida is also home to indigenous Australians who speak other languages. Ndjébbana is the preferred language of communication between members of the Kunibídji community. Ndjébbana is a minority indigenous Australian language.
Building the Dena'ina Language Alaska Archive
Authors: Holton Gary , Berez Andrea , Williams Sadie
Published: May 2011

As the world’s indigenous languages continue to be threatened with extinction, technology can play an important role in indigenous language revitalization, maintenance and preservation (cf. Buszard-Welcher, 2001). The emergence of electronic language archives provides an unprecedented opportunity to both preserve and provide access to often obscure and inaccessible endangered language data. Indeed, the relative ease of use of new electronic tools has made digital archive projects within reach of even modestly funded language communities. However, the ability of these data to endure in electronic format hinges crucially on attention to accepted standards of digital preservation. Lack of attention to open formats can lead to “digital carnage” (Bird & Simons, 2003). Similarly, lack of attention to proper digital storage — for example, by relying on CD-ROM for data preservation — can also lead to data loss (Bradley, 2004).
The Cultural Adaptation Process (CAP) Model
Authors: Edmundson Andrea
Published: May 2011

At the conclusion of the study, The Cross-Cultural Dimensions of Globalized E-Learning (Edmundson, 2004), the cultural adaptation process (CAP) model was introduced as a proposed guideline for evaluating existing e-learning courses and for matching them to the cultural profiles of targeted learners. In theory, the model could facilitate the development of culturally-adapted and accessible e-learning courses, which in turn provide opportunities for all learners to achieve equitable learning outcomes. In this chapter, the author illustrates, with a hypothetical example, how to use the CAP model. As a result of this mock exercise, modifications to the model are recommended. However, the CAP model would benefit from further exploration, use, and development by researchers and practitioners in the field.
Online Games for 21st Century Skills
Authors: Galarneau Lisa , Zibit Melanie
Published: May 2011

As foreseen by visionaries in the 20th century, mastery of the dynamic processes that underpin the acquisition and manipulation of knowledge is quickly becoming a critical capability in the 21st century. Our formal educational systems do not tend to facilitate the development of these capabilities, yet people of all ages are developing them via a variety of digitally-mediated mechanisms. Online games offer one area of exploration for spontaneously-occurring phenomena that represent the natural development of such literacy. This chapter reviews the need for 21st-century skills and illuminates existing digital domains in which these skills develop organically. Peering through the window of the present into the future, we present a view that envisioning change means taking a long look at what is working now, regardless of whether that activity is taking place in a formal setting or within entertainment-based worlds where the skills are mandatory for mastery, but learned incidentally through play.
Organizational Learning and Social Computation
Authors: Iandoli Luca , Zollo Giuseppe
Published: May 2011

In Chapter XVIII we outlined the characteristics of a computational approach to support organizational analysis. Agent-based modeling, one of the several methodological tools presented in Chapter XVIII, is particularly suited for the modeling of learning processes in complex networks. In this appendix we want to provide the reader with an example of how it is possible to construct agent-based systems in order to simulate the collective behavior of social aggregates. We present a mathematical model aimed to represent and simulate adaptive organizational learning processes. With adaptive organizational learning processes we mean a learning process taking place in a social network in which individuals, by means of social interaction and subjective interpretative processes, contribute to the construction and the accumulation of shared experience. The proposed model implements a multiagent system aimed to represent a social network of interacting heterogeneous ‘virtual people’ operating in a virtual environment, here modeled as a network of resources. Learning for an agent means passing from an initial state to a target one through the identification of optimal paths within the environment by exploiting personal characteristics as well as interaction with other agents and the environment; such interaction allows agents to exchange information, to construct a collective memory on the basis of past individual experiences and to have access to resources.
Technology in physician Education
Authors: LaBrunda Michelle , Cortes Jose A.
Published: May 2011

How physicians are trained has been heavily influenced by the advent of the technology era. Technology has progressed faster than society has been able to integrate it. The same is true within schools of medicine and residency training programs. Many technological advances are available to medical educators, and the goal is to make educators aware of the possible educational tools. Traditionally, medicine has been a learn-by-doing discipline. This is becoming less and less acceptable in modern society, and new training methods are being sought, developed and implemented. Some of the modalities available to medical educators include intranet, hand-helds, virtual reality, computerized charting, computerized access to information and electronic monitoring student education. Technological advances in medical education have their uses, but there are also many drawbacks, including hardware limitations, computer failure, security issues, patient confidentiality issues, property rights, maintenance and poor attitude of those required to implement new learning systems.
Constructivism Online
Authors: Kaye Candace , Volkers Erica
Published: May 2011

In higher education, the use of constructivist approaches in online learning reflects agreement with educators who stress that good teaching is both a collaborative and a highly individual process. Online constructivist application also suggests congruence with adult learning theory and educational programming designed for experiential and inquiry-based learning. The objective of this chapter is to investigate perceptions of teaching and learning in online instruction guided by the Vygotskian perspective of constructivist theory. The chapter first focuses on current research studies of online constructivist-based course development and application and then proceeds to the authors’ practical inquiry project, which examined (1) instructor perspectives on creating and facilitating online learning communities and (2) students’ perceptions of their online constructivist experiences. The authors conclude with a discussion of their findings, contributions to the field and suggestions and challenges for the principled use of a constructivist approach to online teaching.
Promoting Lifelong Learning Online
Authors: Baylen Danilo M. , Glacken Joan
Published: May 2011

The introduction of computers and emerging technology applications has changed the learning landscape, especially in higher education. From traditional university classroom learning to community-based adult continuing education programs, it is common to see the delivery of instruction that is now supported by online or distance learning technologies. Online learning has become a common strategy to deliver instruction, enhance access to educational resources, and achieve success in higher education. This chapter focuses on practical applications of emerging technologies in the delivery of professional development programs.
Online Discourse
Authors: Jones S.
Published: May 2011

This chapter explores how information and communications technology (ICT) can be designed to maximize human computer interactions (HCI) in order to create a student-centered learning environment within large classes by enabling small-group discourse. Through an empirical case study of student participation through computer-mediated-communication the chapter demonstrates how the flexibility created in the online environment enables students in large classes, particularly students from non-English speaking backgrounds, to participate at a pace that enables them to contribute considered opinions to a small-group discourse. The case study reiterates the argument that HCI is best achieved when ICTs and face-to-face classes are combined. It is argued that in so doing HCI assists the higher education environment to both meet the demands for mass-market, consumer-driven, globally accessible higher educational, as well as addressing industry demand for graduates with advanced problem-solving and analytical and reflective skills who are able to work collaboratively in teams.
Making the System Work
Authors: Dees Patty Petrey
Published: May 2011

This chapter explores the modality and benefits of videoconferencing from the content provider’s perspective. The content provider as “field expert” is discussed along with the benefits of providing nationwide outreach to K-12 educators and students via a cost-effective, interactive media. Applications of videoconferencing are addressed in addition to the perceptions of the provider in such areas as the needs of the K-12 educational community, methods and tools for presenting successful virtual field trips, and evidence of impact through informal teacher feedback and a professional study conducted in 2000. The author also addresses how providers can reach out to and collaboratively work with other organizations to enhance and build capacity.
Psychological Principles for Reusable Learning Object-Based Learning System Design
Authors: Dawson David B.
Published: May 2011

The creation of a reusable learning object that is effective from instructional and system perspectives must be guided by a framework that is founded on theory and research. A combination of frameworks, the Cisco model and the grounded instructional systems design have been integrated to develop a set of templates that can be used to help developers efficiently create RLOs and the reusable information objects that comprise them. The integration of psychology foundation into learning object creation is critical to a successful implementation of RLO architecture.
Teaching Frameworks for Context-Rich Instruction
Authors: Oliver Kevin
Published: May 2011

This chapter proposes a category of tools called design objects that can be used by instructors to integrate existing content sources, including but not limited to learning objects, within teaching frameworks that engage learners with content in meaningful ways. Emphasis is on tools to support the K-12 instructor, although related issues are applicable across educational levels. Examples of teaching-oriented design objects are provided along with related development systems, however it is argued the former represent more viable options for teachers given limitations in the learning object economy, conceptualizations of teachers regarding objects, complexity in packaging objects, and classroom control issues. The possibility of design objects and development systems working in tandem is discussed, with development systems prescribing effective educational strategies for novice teachers and design objects supporting more personalized content development. Various sources for new design objects are suggested to encourage further development and research.
Developing Learning Objects
Authors: Olgren Christine H. , Ploetz Patricia
Published: May 2011

This chapter examines the issues and concerns of faculty regarding the development and use of learning objects as instructional resources. It describes the characteristics and benefits of learning objects, barriers to adoption, and strategies to increase learning object use. Included are communication and support strategies for working with faculty. Concerns about quality and effectiveness are also discussed, and a comprehensive set of criteria is presented to guide learning object design and evaluation. The chapter concludes with ten recommendations to help overcome barriers to faculty adoption of learning objects. The chapter is based on the authors’ personal experiences in using learning objects, current literature,1 and their involvement in the Fund for the Improvement of Post Secondary Education (FIPSE) Grant entitled “An Investigation of the Pedagogical and Economic Effectiveness of Sharable Content Objects, Using Standards, in Online Instruction.” The work of the grant was conducted from November 2002 through December 2005.
A Survey of Competency Management Software Information Systems in the Framework of Human Resources management
Authors: Urquiza Alfonso
Published: May 2011

One of the greatest surprises of the Internet economy is that far from replacing people, the use of advanced technology is confirming that Talent is the most valuable asset in today’s organizations. In this context, Competency Management(CM) Software automation practices become the most valuable business approach to define, measure and manage talent needs, the Human Capital of the organization. This Survey’s position is that CM process automation in competitive, knowledge intensive e-business oriented organizations, requires that IT addresses Software strategy in a comprehensive Human Resources Management(HRM) Framework. Core Competency management related applications are deployed in current corporate e-business transformation processes in association with the use of innovative Employee – facing relations management technology and reengineering most HR transactional Domain type of applications in place. The Chapter shows the CM Software evolution from a previous fragmented Market situation to a much more integrated scenario in which best of breed single-function oriented products preferences are now swiftly moving to the Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) type of architecture.
Ten-Competence
Authors: Koper Rob , Specht Marcus
Published: May 2011

In most solutions for supporting learning today one single approach to learning is leading the selection, installation and usage of IT based tools. Either content-based approaches lead to the creation of a content-based infrastructure with course management systems and content repositories, or a collaboration background leads to the usage of virtual classrooms and collaborative learning environments. The TENCompetence project aims forward for integration of the different tools, perspectives and learning environments in a common open source infrastructure based on today’s standards on the level of knowledge resources, learning activities, competence development programs, and learning networks. TENCompetence will integrate tools in a Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) and evaluate the approach in a variety of pilot applications for lifelong competence development.
The ERP-Oriented Graduate IT Program
Authors: Targowski Andrew , Han Bernard
Published: May 2011

The purpose of this chapter is to present a revised graduate CIS concentration in the MBA program at Western Michigan University’s Haworth College of Business. The new MBA-CIS concentration has been designed with a strong focus on ERP systems management, and it is proposed in response to industrial needs and to meet MBA students’ interests. The existing MBA-CIS concentration was developed in mid-1990s on the premise that future IT professionals must have mastery in technical IT skills in managing computing informa-tion resources. The recent trend in IT outsourcing triggers a new question — “What kind of IT training and education should be delivered to Americans to keep them employable in the United States?” A new premise resulted from the present environment changes that require our graduate students to have balanced knowledge in both IT skills and business processes (i.e., knowing how to apply IT to the development of business applications that support integrated business processes and enterprise operations). The authors hope that this chapter will contribute to the new issues facing the Academia in the 21st century in respect to IT education.
Statistical Audio-Visual Data Fusion for Video Scene Segmentation
Authors: Parshin Vyacheslav , Chen Liming
Published: May 2011

Automatic video segmentation into semantic units is important to organize an effective content based access to long video. In this work we focus on the problem of video segmentation into narrative units called scenes - aggregates of shots unified by a common dramatic event or locale. In this work we derive a statistical video scene segmentation approach which detects scenes boundaries in one pass fusing multi-modal audio-visual features in a symmetrical and scalable manner. The approach deals properly with the variability of real-valued features and models their conditional dependence on the context. It also integrates prior information concerning the duration of scenes. Two kinds of features extracted in visual and audio domain are proposed. The results of experimental evaluations carried out on ground truth video are reported. They show that our approach effectively fuse multiple modalities with higher performance as compared with an alternative rule-based fusion technique.
Adaptive Metadata Generation for Integration of Visual and Semantic Information
Authors: Sasaki Hideyasu , Kiyoki Yasushi
Published: May 2011

The principal concern of this chapter is to provide those in the visual information retrieval community with a methodology which allows them to integrate the results of content analysis of visual information, i.e., the content descriptors, and their text-based representation to attain the semantically precise results of keyword-based image retrieval operations. The main visual objects of our discussion are images which do not have any semantic representations therein. Those images demand textual annotation of precise semantics which is to be based on the results of automatic content analysis but not on the results of time-consuming manual annotation processes. We first outline the technical background and literature review on a variety of annotation techniques for visual information retrieval. We then describe our proposed method and its implemented system for generating metadata or textual indexes to visual objects by using content analysis technique by bridging the gaps between content descriptors and textual information.
Managing Uncertainties in Image Databases
Authors: Picariello Antonio , Sapino Maria Luisa
Published: May 2011

In this chapter, we focus on those functionalities of multimedia databases that are not present in traditional databases, but are needed when dealing with multimedia information. Multimedia data are inherently subjective: for example, the association of a meaning and the corresponding content description to an image as well as the evaluation of the difference between two images or two pieces of music usually depend on the user who is involved in the evaluation process. For retrieval, such subjective information needs to be combined with objective information, such as image color histograms or sound frequencies, obtained through (generally imprecise) data analysis processes. Therefore, the inherently fuzzy nature of multimedia data, both at subjective and at objective levels, may lead to multiple, possibly inconsistent, interpretations of data. Here, we present the FNF2 data model, a Non First Normal Form extension of the relational model, which takes into account subjectivity and fuzziness, while being intuitive and enabling user friendly information access and manipulation mechanisms.
Semantic Multimedia Information Anaylsis for Retrieval Applications
Authors: Magalhaes Joao , Ruger Stefan
Published: May 2011

Most of the research in multimedia retrieval applications has focused on retrieval by content or retrieval by example. Since the classical review by Smeulders (2000) a new interest has grown immensely in the multimedia information retrieval community: retrieval by semantics. This exciting new research area arises as a combination of multimedia understanding, information extraction, information retrieval and digital libraries. This chapter presents a comprehensive review of analysis algorithms to extract semantic information from multimedia content. We discuss statistical approaches to analyse images and video content and conclude with a discussion regarding the described methods.
Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems
Authors: Kizza Joseph , Migga Kizza Florence
Published: May 2011

Let us make a statement of fact here that three principles define computer network security. These principles are: prevention, detection, and response. The high degree of iIternetworking and our growing dependence on computers have both, along with others factors, created an insatiable demand for information on and about people and products. This, in turn, has created a new class of hackers and information thieves determined to raid computer networks for proprietary information. All of a sudden, computer networks have come to be pots of honey attracting many. Consequently, the stampede for information from computer networks must be met with strong mechanisms, first to detect those trying to penetrate the system, secondly to prevent them from trying, and thirdly to respond to the attempt, successful or not. Although these three are fundamental ingredients of security, most resources have been devoted to detection and prevention, because if we are able to detect all security threats and prevent them, then there is no need for response. So we will focus on prevention in this chapter, but before we do, let us define the working terms.
All About Constraints
Authors: Dron Jon
Published: May 2011

This book offers an exploration of the ways that a learning trajectory is determined, and, in particular, how an online learning environment can affect that trajectory. It provides suggestions about how, primarily through technologies that underlie what is vulgarly known as “Web 2.0,” networked learning environments should be constructed to give control to learners if they need it, as they need it, and when they need it.
The Algos Center
Authors: Chinn Susan J. , Pryor Charlotte A. , Voyer John J.
Published: May 2011

Two systems faculty from a university was contracted to perform an analysis of information systems at the Algos Center, a small non-profit charitable organization which provides support for children and their families facing losses. The Center specifically requested help in integrating its fundraising and accounting software packages or exploring alternative software solutions. It also needed to generate reports required by the board of directors and United Way. Finally, the Center requested help in designing a family database to capture and track statistics about the families receiving services. As the team analyzed the Center, they discovered many underlying issues that would form part of their recommendations to the staff. This case makes two contributions. First, it reveals many problems facing small non-profit organizations, which primarily expend their resources on mission-critical activities, and allows readers to supply possible courses of action. Second, it provides an opportunity to evaluate how a consulting experience was handled and to make recommendations to ensure successful project implementation.
Office Depot's E-Commerce Evolution
Authors: Lee In
Published: May 2011

Office Depot Inc., founded in 1986, is currently known as one of the leaders in the office supplies industry. Office Depot’s distribution channels include stores, direct mail, contract delivery, and electronic commerce. In the mid-1990s, three major office supplies retailers (Office Depot, Staples, and Office Max) dominated the office supplies market. The entry barriers to the new entrants were extremely high due to the three retailers’ extensive distribution networks and physical stores. The competition among these retailers was also fierce in cities where all three stores existed. In 1997, Office Depot first introduced B2B e-commerce for larger corporate customers and realized that OfficeMax had already launched B2C e-commerce for the general public. In 1997, the executive committee of Office Depot worked with retail analysts and concluded that a full-scale move to e-commerce was an opportunity it must seize. To maintain the lead in the e-retailing race, Office Depot quickly launched B2C e-commerce in January of 1998. This case study investigates critical factors managers should take into consideration in adopting new e-commerce strategies and technologies that will leverage corporate resources.
Challenges in the Redesign of Content Management
Authors: Honkaranta Anne , Salminen Airi , Peltola Tuomo
Published: May 2011

The Finnish Centre for Pensions (FCP) is a government organization acting as the central body for private pension institutions in Finland. One of its central tasks is to produce and publish guideline documents for ensuring that the pension institutions carry out pension provisioning in a unified way. Due to problems in the maintenance of the documents and requests for faster information delivery by the Internet, FCP carried out a content management development initiative during 2002-2004. The case follows the changes in components of the content management environment: in the activities of work processes, actor roles, systems, and content items. The case shows that in content management redesign, the work processes, roles of people in the processes, content items, and systems are deeply intertwined. Changes in one component often cause changes in others, and thereby iterative development efforts are needed. The case highlights the challenges encountered and describes the tools utilized for redesign activities.
Setting Up to Fail
Authors: Urbaczewski Andrew , Moore Jo Ellen
Published: May 2011

A mantra of experienced project managers is “failing to plan = planning to fail.” In the case of Midwest MBA, a user group is not satisfied with the progress made by the central computing staff on the development of a much-needed information system
Success and Failure in Building Electronic Infrastructures in the Air Cargo Industry
Authors: Christiaanse Ellen , Damsgaard Jan
Published: May 2011

Reasons behind the failure and success of large-scale information systems projects continue to puzzle everyone involved in the design and implementation of IT. In particular in the airline industry very successful (passenger reservation) systems have been built which have totally changed the competitive arena of the industry. On the cargo side, however, attempts to implement large-scale community systems have largely failed across the globe. Air cargo parties are becoming increasingly aware of the importance of IT and they understand the value that IOS could provide for the total value chain performance. However, whereas in other sectors IOSs have been very successful, there are only fragmented examples of successful global systems in the air cargo community, and the penetration of IOS in the air cargo industry is by no means pervasive. This case describes the genesis and evolution of two IOSs in the air cargo community and identifies plausible explanations that lead one to be a success and one to be a failure. The two examples are drawn from Europe and from Hong Kong SAR. Thecae clearly demonstrates that it was the complex, institutional and technical choices made by the initiators of the system in terms of their competitive implications that were the main causes for the systems’ fate. The case thus concludes that it was the institutional factors involved in the relationships of the stakeholders that led to the opposite manifestations of the two initiatives, and that such factors should be taken into account when designing and implementing large-scale information systems.
Management of Data Streams for Large-Scale Data Mining
Authors: Wright Jon R. , Vesonder Gregg T. , Dasu Tamraparni
Published: May 2011

In an enterprise setting, a major challenge for any data mining operation is managing data streams or feeds, both data and metadata, to ensure a stable and certifiably accurate flow of data. Data feeds in this environment can be complex, numerous and opaque. The management of frequently changing data and metadata presents a considerable challenge. In this paper, we articulate the technical issues involved in the task of managing enterprise data and propose a multi-disciplinary solution, derived from fields such as knowledge engineering and statistics, to understand, standardize, and automate information acquisition and quality management in preparation for enterprise mining.