Research about SaaS, IaaS and PaaS

Research about SaaS, IaaS and PaaS

IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS can all be described with just one word and that is IaaS is host, PaaS is build, and SaaS is consume. To further elaborate on these one word descriptions, IaaS that can be provided by a company comprises of a service that provides load balancing, content delivery networks, data storage, computer networking, routing, and virtualized operating system hosting. PaaS is also a service provided a company, but what is more unique about it is that it supplies with a platform for building web-based software applications, with abstractions of the underlying infrastructure. SaaS, on the other hand, makes up the actual software solution that is available to the clients. The software, itself can be delivered by many means, but the most common way is through the internet. What can be gained from each service is different as an IaaS essentially provides us with a computer or server, while a PaaS provides an application or framework, and finally a SaaS provides us with business functionality. Perhaps the best and the most popular example of SaaS is Gmail because the management of all the service that comes through Gmail is done through the vendor, which is Google, in this case. [2],[3]

One case example that uses SaaS as a service is an ambitious company called Progetan, which focuses on the healthcare domain. The great advantages that a SaaS service can have on the Indian healthcare industry were seen through this company. The main problem of smaller clinics and hospitals in India is the inability to invest heavily in IT and to gain benefits from it. However, this is seldom a problem with the larger hospital chains and clinics in India. Another main challenge with the Indian healthcare industry and as a matter of fact, with any healthcare industry is the speed and quality of healthcare. The greater the speed and quality, the better healthcare provided. However, this is easier said than done. With SaaS service, it is not only to make the statement, but it is easy to put such words into action. Since one of the challenges of the company is the investment that goes along with IT incorporation into smaller hospitals and clinics, a SaaS based practice management that put voice, data, coding, billing, receivable management, IT support, and Accounting, all into one package to be ready to be used as a solution. [1]

The main advantage that comes from such service is that this SaaS based practice is offered on pay-per-use model, which ultimately cut infrastructure costs for the smaller hospitals and clinics. In fact, by using the SaaS service, they can cut cost up to 70%. This type of service also provides with standardized data and processes. Using this service, doctors and hospitals are provided with a day-to-day support system for all activities such as appointment settling, billing, medical transcription, and patient monitoring. Doctors can even provide their service to patients from any location of their choice. Healthcare services can now be more improved and efficient because of patient data being stored online, available to be referred back to at any time. Such data can be used to provide more effective personalized patient services. The SaaS service can ultimately result in an interactive collaboratively working community providing advices to each other, as the network grows with an increase in doctors, clinics, and hospital chains. Progetan also incorporates social networking technologies to make it possible for doctors and patients to develop trust-worthy and effective relationships. Another advantage of having the Progetan platform as a base, is that a medical community exists for patients to access. A good example is when patients often inquire to be seen by doctors with specialties. In such instances, when the requested specialty doctor is not available, Progetan’s call center can be accessed to help find another doctor with the same expertise and specialty. [1]

Perhaps one of the drawbacks of such a product or service that can be improved on and that also affects the healthcare industry overall is the idea of confidential patient data. One of the main aspects of building such world class back office support systems with SaaS service for the benefit of medical practice that needs some concern or carefulness is patient data spilling out, which ultimately leads to what they call in the health-care field violation of HIPPA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act). Companies must assure that when developing such services, that ample care goes in the effect to protect confidential patient information.

work cited:
1. http://www.informationweek.in/Cloud_Computing/10-04-30/Progetan_aims_to_transform_Indian_healthcare_using_SaaS.aspx
2. http://www.cloudave.com/9239/the-confusions-of-iaas-paas-and-saas/
3. http://www.silverlighthack.com/post/2011/02/27/IaaS-PaaS-and-SaaS-Terms-Explained-and-Defined.aspx

Web 2.0/Social Networks

Web 2.0/Social Networks

Web 2.0 is web as a platform, which offers services on the web site itself, than having the need to run the programs on your computer. Web 2.0 will allow users to interact with each other, Contribute, share Information and share videos. Technical Components that supports the web 2.0 are XML, Ajax, Various Programming languages, Plug-ins and widgets etc.

Ajax is supported by a group of applications (HTML, CSS, DOM, Java script) that works together in the background to open a page without interfering with the display and the behavior of the existing page. Web 2.0 allow users to built applications within a short period of time without higher technical knowledge. [1]

Some of the features that are in the web 2.0 include, Web log publishing tools, Blogs, Wikis or Forums, Instant messenger, Social Interaction and Tagging. Social Networking sites that uses the characteristics of web 2.0 are Face book, MySpace etc. These social networking sites allow users to interact with each other and web site like YouTube allows video sharing. Businesses and Schools can take advantage of the technology like web 2.0. Some Businesses are uncertain to bring web 2.0 to their companies, but some businesses that did not have money to pay for advertisement uses the advantages of web 2.0 to market their product by blogging and social computing, which is a new form of marketing. [2],[3]

New reports shows schools are not able to apply the latest technologies, because teacher's lack of knowledge on how to use the technologies. The most important aspect of web 2.0 is communication. And I think it is time for Businesses and Schools to take advantage of this application.

Work Cited:
1. http://www.exforsys.com/search/?q=web+2.0
2. http://thejournal.com/articles/2011/04/06/districts-increase-use-of-web-2.0-though-barriers-remain.aspx
3. http://www.exforsys.com/tutorials/web-2.0/web-2.0-will-change-internet.html

Database

Database System

A database is an organized collection of data or given information, usually in digital form. For this particular research I am focusing on Microsoft SQL Server Database. SQL stands for Structured Query Language. Microsoft SQL Server is a relational database, which created by Microsoft. This software stores and retrieves data requested by other applications. The first version of SQL server 1.0 was released in 1989. In 1989 Microsoft and Sybase were equal partners and they split up in 1995 and released a new version Microsoft SQL 6.0. There are many different editions of Microsoft SQL server. SQL server runs on XP, Vista, Windows Server 2000, 2003 and 2008 etc. [1], [3]

Stein Mart a business chain found in 1902, Concentrating in brand name clothing, shoes, accessories and home decor with 268 stores in the United States, was facing an issue with delayed data reporting due to the performance issue with the company’s data warehouse system IBM DB2 and AS/400 with the limited amount of column and rows provided on this version, The company was only able to fulfill a certain amount of data. “As a result, weekly data processing took at least 14 hours. Wajsman says, data system manager “On a regular basis, the data wasn’t ready for planning sessions.” [2]

To improve the business capabilities and for cost cutting due to the increased amount spending on hardware licensing and maintenance cost each month, Stein Mart decided on bringing Microsoft SQL Server 2008 enterprise database software, SQL Server 2008 reporting services and SQL Server Fast Track Data Warehouse. With the help of Microsoft Gold Certified Partner Pragmatic Works, old data reports were able to transfer to the new system. [2]

1. What specific challenges does your database system implementation have?
The challenges were looking at different types of database system before making the big decision on what works better for the company in terms of improving the business capabilities, Time consuming and cost effectiveness. After looking carefully at Oracle, Netezza and Microsoft. Stein Mart decided on choosing Microsoft SQL Server.

2. In what ways does it provide competitive advantage for the organization using it?
The advantages are faster sales report. Weekly sales reports are processed in less than 3 hours compare to 14 hours with the old system. 95% Reduced monthly cost compare to the old system. The company will also reduce its system maintenance costs by $50,000 every month.

3. What improvements would you suggest?
Through my research I find out that there will be a new version of Microsoft SQL Server coming out soon, the code name is “DENALI”. I would recommend for this company to implement the new version of SQL. It might be little bit more costly but this new version has extra features and should be much faster too. So, for long run it will benefit the company in all aspects.

1. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SQL_Server
2. http://www.microsoft.com/casestudies/Case_Study_Detail.aspx?casestudyid=4000007013
3. http://lemingtonit.com/services/SQL-Server/SQL-Server-Database-FAQs.aspx

Using Database to Map Human Migration

Critical Thinking Questions

1. How is the manipulation of Genographic data similar to the manipulation of business data?
Answer. In Business data manipulation, After DBMS has been installed, Employees and Managers can use it to review reports and obtain important Information. It is similar to the Genographic data manipulation. In Genographic data manipulation, participant gets a swab for gathering DNA from the Inside of the mouth then the DNA sample is sent to the Genographic project by mail. Participants can trace the progress of the research on their DNA online. Once analyzed, the participant is provided with historical Information about their ancestors and migration paths dating back to that African community 60,000 years ago.

Q. What DBMS tools and techniques are shared by both?
Answer. The tools that are shared by both are the Data-mining and business-Intelligence tools, used by businesses to find correlations between Business data are applied to the DNA information stored by the Genographic project. Advanced trend-mapping and analysis tools provide a deeper understanding of mutation rates and DNA-merging behavior. Lastly Automation,( the use of Information Technologies to reduce the need of human work)provided by database tools.

2. How does National Geographics investment in this DBMS assist other researchers?
Answer. The participation of more than 300,000 volunteers has created one of the largest repositories of genetic information and with hundreds of thousands samples of collected data, Which will help other researchers benefit from the use of this DBMS.

Q. How might this data be shared using the database concepts taught in this chapter?
Answer. By using database with other software and with the internet, Researchers can interact directly with others. With the back-end applications people will be able to interact with other users and websites. Data manipulation language which is provided with the DMBS allows users to access and modify the data and generate reports and by storing the data it will allow data to be shared.

Rapid Application Development

Rapid Application Development

Rapid application is originally developed during the mid 1970’s by the New York telephone Co’s systems development center under the direction of Dan Gelan. The word rapid means “fast”. The term itself describes it can be delivered fast. It was developed to the need to deliver systems very fast. The Success of RAD depends on the Size, Project Scope and the Circumstances. Rapid application can be designed and developed within 60 to 90 days. Although rapid application was originally developed in 1978, it was further developed during the late 1980's by Scott Shultz and James Martin. They came up with the idea of advancing the systems in a short time frame which is called Rapid Iterative Production Prototyping (RIPP) with the help of small teams of highly qualified, motivated and experienced staff. “James Martin (who was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize and is frequently called "the Guru of the Information Age") further expanded and formalized Rapid Iterative Production Prototyping and in 1991 published the book Rapid Application Development”. [1]

Many elements make RAD unique. Including prototyping, Iterative development, Time boxing, Team members, Management approach and RAD tools. Prototyping is to test theories and confirm performance before starting the production of a new product. Making progressively more functional system in a short period of time is Iterative development. Each version is reviewed with the client to generate the next version. The standard length of Iteration is between one day to three weeks. The process of putting off features to future application versions in order to complete the current version in as short time as possible is time boxing. Team effort is important while using RAD. It recommends small team that consists of experienced members that are able to perform multiple roles. In order to get the best results, energetic and involved management is also very important. RAD tools are valuable today as it was initially developed.[1],[2]

The advantages of RAD over the other applications are the greater flexibility, better user Involvement and shorter completion times. RAD is very successful when the application is standalone, has a timed schedule and performance is not critical. The disadvantages include, if it is being used for the unsuitable project objectives. If it is being used for the unsuitable project, RAD system can be less effective and there may be reduced features which won’t be effective for the particular project. [3]

Works cited:
1.http://www.blueink.biz/RapidApplicationDevelopment.aspx
2.http://www.gantthead.com/content/processes/11306.cfm
3.http://www.customapplicationdevelopment.org/rapid-application-development/what-is-rapid-application-development.html

Expert System

my expert system will let the patient choose the best treatment for the diagnosis according to the signs and symptoms.


BEGIN

DISPLAY "

Welcome to the charming world of medicine!

Press any key to begin the consultation."~
FIND the_treatment
CLS
DISPLAY "

The most appropriate treatment for this diagnosis is {the_treatment}

given according to the {diagnosis}."

END


RULE a1:
IF diagnosis = "pneumonia" AND
symptoms = "green phlegm" AND
sign = Fever
THEN the_treatment = "Antibiotics";
BECAUSE a1"
Your diagnosis will be cured by taking antibiotics."

RULE a2:
IF diagnosis = pneumonia AND
symptoms = cough OR
sign = Fever
THEN the_treatment = Nebulizer;
BECAUSE a2"
Your diagnosis will be cured by taking nebulizer treatments."

RULE a3:
IF diagnosis = SOB AND
chief_complaint = SOB AND
Symptoms = apnea
THEN treatment = "Oxygen";
BECAUSE a3"
Your diagnosis will be cured by using supplemental Oxygen."

RULE a4:
IF diagnosis = asthma OR
Chief_Complaint = "chest tightness" AND
Sign = "Decreased peak flow"
THEN treatment = "Nebulizer";
BECAUSE a4"
Your diagnosis will be cured by nebulizer treatments."

RULE a5:
IF diagnosis = "SOB" AND
Chief_Complaint = dyspnea AND
sign = "low oxygen"
THEN preference = "Oxygen";
BECAUSE a5"
Your diagnosis will most likely be cured by using supplemental Oxygen."

RULE a6:
IF diagnosis = Asthma AND
Chief_Complaint = dyspnea OR
Sign = Wheezing
THEN treatment = nebulizer;
BECAUSE a6"
Your diagnosis will be cured by using a nebulizer treatment."

RULE a7:
IF diagnosis = bronchitis AND
sign = Phlegm OR
symptoms = cough
THEN treatment = "Antibiotics";
BECAUSE a7"
Your dignosis will be cured by taking antibiotics."

RULE a8:
IF diagnosis = "Asthmatic Bronchitis" OR
Sign = Wheezing AND
Symptoms = cough
THEN preference = "Antibiotics";
BECAUSE a8"
Your diagnosis will be cured by taking antibiotics."

RULE a9:
IF diagnosis = "Asthma" AND
Sign = "chest tightness" OR
Symptoms = SOB
THEN the_treatment = Inhaler;
BECAUSE a9"
Your diagnosis will be most likely cured by using inhaler."


ASK Course "
nebulizer is given with What diagnosis?"

CHOICES diagnosis (Bronchitis, Asthmatic/Bronchitis, Asthma)


ASK Preference "
What is your preference in treatments?"

CHOICES Preference (Nebulizer, Antibiotics, Inhaler)

ASK Sign "
What is your sign?"

CHOICES Sign (Fever, Wheezing)


PLURAL (Course)

MIIS and DSS

MIS and DSS

Today small and large Companies and Organizations are using MIS and DSS in variety of ways. With the understanding on how to market the business, it is also important to make knowledgeable decisions with manager’s up to date understanding on how to use the tools like, MIS (management information systems) and DSS (decision support systems).

Information system is used all throughout companies and organization, but the term MIS describes particular system that provides managers with weekly, monthly or yearly reports, access to organizations current performance, planning, controlling and helps with decision making at the management level. Manager primarily uses MIS to find the problem or the forthcoming problems and then to understand them by finding their locations and causes. [2]

DSS is a computer based system intended to help business owners, executives and managers solve complicated business problems and or questions. Report writing software within the DSS will produce periodic or special reports. Mathematical Model organizes result as simulations. Groupware the term known as GDSS allow several problem solvers working together as a group or directly to find the solutions. GDSS includes a committee or a project team. “previously regarded as primarily a tool for big companies, DSS has in recent years come to be recognized as a potentially valuable tool for small business enterprises” [1],[4]

Once an Organization Include MIS and DSS to their computers, it is available for managers and executives to generate information that organization need. This gives them the ability to produce documents, charts and graphs for employee meetings and to get an idea of their business potential. This system will be easy for employees to put data and to retrieve information just like the general computer interfaces and it will be the same manner department to department. [3]

Work Cited:
1.http://www.referenceforbusiness.com/small/Co-Di/Decision-Support-Systems.html
2.http://www.referenceforbusiness.com/small/Mail-Op/Management-Information-Systems-MIS.html
3.http://smallbusiness.chron.com/mis-dss-benefits-company-15243.html
4.http://mba.mbairan.ir/Portals/0/241_Full_mis.pdf