L13: Business Issues
L13: Reflection
This lesson gave me a clearer view of how business, collaboration, and ownership function on the internet. I learned that businesses today often rely heavily on digital transactions, online storefronts, and remote communication tools to operate globally without needing a physical presence. It surprised me how much is handled behind the scenes through cloud computing — from storage and software to customer management systems.
I also explored how cloud applications like Google Docs and Microsoft 365 enable real-time collaboration, allowing people to work together from different parts of the world almost as if they were in the same room. This not only increases productivity but also creates new challenges around managing data and accountability.
Finally, I learned about the importance of ownership on the internet. Whether it’s writing, software, images, or music, digital creations are protected by copyright laws, meaning the original creator has legal rights unless they choose to share or license their work. This reinforced for me how important it is to respect the work others post online, and it made me think more carefully about my own digital footprint and creations.
L13: Enterprise Technology Integration
Company 1: IBM
Industry: Tech and Consulting
Technology Integration:
IBM shifted from hardware to focusing on AI, cloud computing, and data services. They use tools like Watson to handle everything from analytics to customer support.
Advancements in Operations:
Their cloud setup helps businesses run smoother and access data from anywhere, while Watson speeds up tasks like data analysis and decision-making.
Profit Impact:
IBM makes more money now through subscriptions and consulting services instead of just selling hardware, which gives them steady income.
Organizational Improvement:
They restructured into separate units like IBM Consulting, which helps them focus better and move faster on projects.
Overall Benefit:
Tech helped IBM go from a hardware company to a leader in AI and cloud services, keeping them competitive in today’s market.
Company 2: Walmart
Industry: Retail
Technology Integration:
Walmart uses tech like robots for inventory, self-checkout machines, and online delivery systems. They also use AI to track what customers like and need.
Advancements in Operations:
All that tech helps keep shelves stocked, speeds up checkout, and makes shopping easier both in-store and online.
Profit Impact:
Automation cuts down on labor and shipping costs, while online shopping brings in more sales, especially from people using Walmart+.
Organizational Improvement:
Walmart added more tech jobs and created a team focused on digital growth, so now their store operations and online systems work together.
Overall Benefit:
Tech made Walmart faster and more efficient, helping them keep up with online giants like Amazon.
Company 3: Delta Air Lines
Industry: Transportation
Technology Integration:
Delta uses mobile apps, biometric boarding, and predictive maintenance to improve how they run flights and help customers.
Advancements in Operations:
Predictive tools help prevent delays by spotting mechanical issues early, and their app makes it easy to check in or change flights on the go.
Profit Impact:
Fewer delays and better service mean more people fly with them again, and cutting maintenance surprises saves them a lot of money.
Organizational Improvement:
Delta encourages using tech at all levels—from the pilots to the support teams—so their whole system is more connected and efficient.
Overall Benefit:
Delta’s tech upgrades make flying smoother and cheaper to manage, which keeps both customers and the company happy.
