Case studies of real distributed systems are used to exemplify concepts. Students entering this course are expected to be familiar with basic operating system concepts, networking issues at the lower levels of the ISO hierarchy, and properties of common data structures. They are also expected to be fluent in programming. Information Systems Modeling focuses on the early processes of information systems design. Students gain a deep understanding of the complexity of establishing information requirements in complex applications and learn how to translate these requirements into a global design architecture.
Students compare and contrast different methodologies for requirement analysis.
Modeling a database architecture as a major step in the design process is emphasized. Throughout the course students conduct several assignments using Object-Oriented design methodologies. At the conclusion of the course students explore several approaches for completing design specifications that satisfy existing information requirements. Principles of economics include supply-demand and equilibrium analysis, consumer theory, theory of the firm and welfare economics. The importance of information systems is emphasized across all management functions.