Activity1：Name 2 Open Source Software
Mozilla Firefox is a free open source web browser for the computer. It displays web pages written in the computer language HTML. It is made by the Mozilla Foundation. It works on all common operating systems. The makers did not put in all possible features by design, instead extra features can be added. This was done to make Firefox simple to use and safe.

Google Chrome browser is an open source program for accessing the World Wide Web and running Web-based applications

The Chrome browser is a light-weight browser, meaning it does not come pre-loaded with a bunch of add-ons or plug-ins. However, many different types of add-ons and plug-ins can be downloaded and installed in the Chrome browser for added features and functionality

Activity 2

There are 3 main categories of benefit: cost, optimization and flexibility.

COST
Open source products can be cheaper, but if you want an industrial strength product then you pay for some or all of the services around it. At the platform level, Linux is Linux and what you pay for is the support service. Red Hat and Novell provide additional software components to make better use of the underlying platform.
Recent economic conditions have prompted more organisations to seriously consider the use of open source as part of an integrated, blended use of all the available technology.FLEXIBILITY
Organisations have to be fast and agile and that is where open source is a great enabler through shorter application development times, adopting new trends faster, the ability to customize the code to support specific features or processes and faster procurement. In addition there are fast bug and security fixes because coders combine ideas and rapidly fix problems as they are discovered.

OPTIMIZATION
With the growth in the use of open source, IT leaders need to consider optimization in a new way – looking at the big picture of their overall IT infrastructure and deciding whether a proprietary or open source solution is best for each part of their environment. This is supported by the fact that open source systems are, of course, more open. They are usually designed with integration in mind, whereas proprietary systems lock users into a closed system giving the vendor significant power.

3. Record yourself explaining the Linux Operating System in 60 seconds (max). Briefly introduce the open-source operating system and submit your video. Remember, do not exceed 60 seconds.

Linux (also known as GNU/ Linux) is one of the mist prominent examples of free software and open source development which means that typically all underlying source code can be freely modified, used, and redistributed by anyone. It is similar with the Windows 7, Windows 8, and Mac OS X, Linux is an operating system. An operating system that manages all of the hardware resources associated with your desktop or laptop. To put in simply, it communicates between software and hardware. Without the operating system, the software wouldn’t function.
Linux is predominantly known for its use in serves. It also used as an operating system for a wide variety of computer hardware, including desktop computers, supercomputers, video game systems, and embedded devices such as mobile phone and routers. Basic communication with a Linux computer is through a command line terminal (no graphics). That is, the commands are typed on the keyboard instead of clicking on things on the screen with a mouse.

Case study 1: What are the input, process, and output of UPS’s tracking system?

       1.  What are the input, process, and output of UPS’s tracking system?

Inputs:

-          include package information, customer signature, pickup, delivery, time-based data, current location (while on route), and customer documentation

Process:

-          Data transmitted to central computer and stored for retrieval. Data also reorganized so that can be tracked by customer account, data, driver, and other criteria.

Output:

-          Include pickup and delivery times, location while on route, and package recipient, but specific as well as summary reports for management

					PROCESSING Processing technology: UPU’s Computer Center				OUTPUT: 1.       Progress Report on package via web 2.       Printed scan able barcode label
	INPUTS: Input device: Delivery Information Acquisition Device (DIAD) Input data: Sender’s detail and destination package PROCESSING Processing technology: UPU’s Computer Center OUTPUT: 1.       Progress Report on package via web  2.       Printed scan able barcode label 2. What technologies are used? How are these technologies related to UPS’s business strategy? It all starts with the scannable bar-coded label attached to a package, which contain detailed information about the sender, the destination, and when the package should arrive. Next, UPS use special software to create the most efficient delivery route for each driver that consider traffic, weather conditions, and the location of each stop. In 2009, UPS began installing sensors in its delivery vehicles that can capture the truck’s speed and location, the number of times it’s placed in reverse and whether the driver’s seat belt is buckled. Furthermore, by combining GPS information and data from fuel-efficiency sensors, UPS is able to reduce fuel consumption. Then, from getting feedback from their customers the company developed acquisition device called Delivery Information Acquisition Device (DIAD), which can access a wireless cell phone network. DIAD also automatically captures customers’ signatures along with pickup and delivery information. The technologies used above are related to UP'S business strategy because it improves efficiency and time management. For example, using GPS technology allows parcels to be tracked wherever they may be. If it is lost they can be located and delivered to the correct address. These technologies also ensure maximum flexibility in business operations. Bluetooth and Infrared technology allows instant messaging which enables any changes to be communicated easily and immediately. These technologies solve timing problems as drivers can receive urgent delivery messages. If delivery has been sent to the incorrect location you are automatically notified. Drivers are shown directions to customers address, gives the fastest route therefore saving time to deliver the next parcel. Customers have access to tracking their parcels instead of having the hassle to call UPS and ask of its location. 3. What strategic business objectives do UPS’s information system address? The strategic business objectives do UPS’s information system address is to grow their global business by serving the logistics needs of customers. Those technologies are solving problems such as: * ensuring they can deliver anywhere in the world by using the built in GPS * Electronically records signature from customers, which is automatically recorded to the company database. * Information are send directly to drivers on instant messages. 4. What would happen if UPS’s information systems were not available? If those technology were not available it would made it hard for drivers to find address or pick up point for customers because the GPS makes it easier for them. Next, if these technologies were not available UPS would not be able to have a competitive edge on its competitors and not deliver an effective and efficient, time targeted service. Finally, it can result in lower revenue.