Week 3 - Chapter 3

This weeks chapter covered databases and database management systems.  I have to admit that this is a subject that I have always had a hard time with.  I understand how they work, I use them on a regular basis, but i just have trouble reaching my head around what they are beyond the user interface that I have direct access to. 

Furthermore, I cannot create database.  I have tried many times, many ways and have failed miserably every time.  I was glad to see that the chapter went into the theory behind simple databases as well as complete database warehouses.  I have not had a chance to read any of the extended learning modules and am hoepfule that they will give me a little more insight.  I really have a need for a specific database, but haven't had luck with it yet.  I have come to realize that I will need to spend more time planning my database before I try to design it.  And to think, I just kept blaming MS Access.

This chapter did a good job explaining the power of a good database as far as providing business intelligence and helping organizations make educated decisions.  They are more than just tools help you auto-fill a few forms and keep an address book.  They are capable of helping any organization succeed. 

Week 2 - Chapter 2

As I am just starting this class there are a lot of things that I am hoping to learn and explore.   I am interested in computers and have spent a lot of time working with them but mainly from the workstation side and not network based applications. I have been on the receiving end of IT for a long time.  I work in an organization that is heavily dependent on IT.  From daily communications with other associates to the transmission of sensitive and protected information I use IT almost everyday.  It seems though that I have been able to use it as it shown to me without a lot of understanding as to how and why it is set up and used the way it is.  I hope during this class to gain a better understanding of why IT works the way it does more than just the "how". 

I believe that information is the key to any business or organizations success.  The greatest employees cannot carry a company single-handed.  Information must always move, be shared, and grown.  IT is they way that this can be done in the most effective manner possible.  There are risks.  Information can be useful, but it can also be harmful. 

I hope that this class gives me some information and helps lead me to a point of better understanding of not just IT, but information handling systems in general.

My first post

I just set this up.  I'm making sure it all works before I get too carried away posting.