Summaries: the best definitions, descriptions and lists of terms for IT, logistics and technology

Business intelligence is a technology-driven discipline that uses data to inform business decisions. Business intelligence is about transforming raw data into meaningful insights to support strategic decision-making, improve operational efficiency, and optimize business performance. It involves using tools, applications, and methodologies to collect, analyze, and present data for clear business understanding.

What are the main features of business intelligence?

• Data-driven decision making: Relies on data analysis to guide business choices rather than intuition.
• Focus on actionable insights: Extracts usable information from data to support concrete actions.
• Technology-enabled: Utilizes various software and tools like data warehouses, data mining applications, and visualization tools.
• Focus on communication: Effectively presenting insights to decision-makers in a clear and understandable way.

What are the most important sub-areas of business intelligence?

• Data Warehousing: Storing and managing large datasets from various sources.
• Data Mining: Uncovering hidden patterns and trends within data.
• Data Visualization: Presenting data in a clear and visually compelling way (charts, graphs).
• Business Analytics: A subfield that uses statistical methods and advanced analytics to extract even deeper insights from data.
• Data Governance: Establishing policies and procedures for data management and security.

What are important concepts of business intelligence?

• Data Quality: Ensuring data is accurate, complete, and consistent for reliable analysis.
• Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): Measurable metrics used to track business performance.
• Data Model: A structured representation of how data is organized and relationships between data points.
• Self-Service BI: Tools allowing non-technical users to access and analyze data to some extent.
• Big Data: Extremely large and complex datasets requiring specialized techniques for processing.

Who are influential figures in business intelligence?

• Howard Dresner: Coined the term "Business Intelligence" in the 1980s.
• Inmon W.H.: Pioneered the Inmon methodology for data warehousing.
• Kimball R.: Developed the Kimball methodology for data warehousing, focusing on dimensional modeling.
• Hans Peter Lehmann: Contributed significantly to data mining techniques and knowledge discovery in databases.

Why is business intelligence important?

• Data-driven insights can lead to better decision-making across all levels of a business.
• Improved operational efficiency through data-backed process optimization.
• Stronger customer focus by understanding customer behavior and preferences through data analysis.
• Enhanced competitive advantage by identifying trends and opportunities before competitors.
• More informed risk management through data-driven risk assessment.

How is business intelligence applied in practice?

• Marketing: Analyzing customer data to personalize marketing campaigns and measure their effectiveness.
• Sales: Identifying sales trends and predicting future sales figures.
• Finance: Monitoring financial performance and making informed investment decisions.
• Operations: Optimizing supply chain management and identifying areas for cost reduction.
• Human Resources: Analyzing employee data to improve recruitment, retention, and training programs.

Intellectual property (IP) is a field of study that focuses on the legal rights associated with creations of the mind. It encompasses intangible creations like inventions, literary and artistic works, designs, and symbols. IP law grants inventors, creators, and businesses exclusive rights to their work for a limited period, encouraging innovation and artistic expression.

What are the main features of intellectual property?

• Intangible Creations: Protects things you can't physically touch, but represent the product of creativity and innovation.
• Exclusive Rights: Provides the owner with the legal right to control how their work is used, copied, or distributed.
• Limited Duration: IP rights are not perpetual, and the duration of protection varies depending on the type of IP.
• Global Reach: IP laws exist in most countries, but there are also international treaties governing IP protection.
• Economic Incentive: Provides creators and inventors with a financial incentive to invest in their work.

What are the most important sub-areas in intellectual property?

• Patent Law: Protects new inventions and processes for a limited period.
• Copyright Law: Protects original literary, artistic, musical, and dramatic works.
• Trademark Law: Protects distinctive signs used to identify and distinguish the source of goods or services.
• Trade Secret Law: Protects confidential business information that provides a competitive advantage.
• Plant Variety Protection: Protects the rights of breeders of new plant varieties.

What are the most important concepts of intellectual property?

• Novelty: An invention or creation must be new and not previously known.
• Non-obviousness: An invention cannot be obvious to someone skilled in the art.
• Originality: A work must be original and the result of the author's own creative effort.
• Fair Use: Certain limited uses of copyrighted material may be allowed without permission.
• Distinctiveness: A trademark must be capable of distinguishing the goods or services of one source from another.

Who are influential figures in intellectual property?

• Hugh Latimer: English bishop who advocated for granting monopolies to inventors in the 16th century.
• Antoine Lavoisier: French chemist who played a key role in establishing the patent system in France in the 18th century.
• Victor Hugo: French author who championed international copyright protection in the 19th century.
• WIPO (World Intellectual Property Organization): A specialized agency of the United Nations that promotes international cooperation in IP matters.

Why is intellectual property important?

• Encourages Innovation: By providing exclusive rights, IP incentivizes companies and individuals to invest in research and development.
• Protects Creativity: Provides creators with control over their work and a means to earn from it.
• Promotes Economic Growth: A strong IP system fosters innovation and creativity, leading to economic growth.
• Fosters Fair Competition: IP laws help prevent unfair competition by protecting businesses from having their ideas copied.
• Spurs Technology Transfer: IP rights can facilitate the commercialization of inventions and new technologies.

How is intellectual property applied in practice?

• Filing patent applications to protect inventions.
• Registering trademarks to protect distinctive brand logos and names.
• Copyrighting original works like literary works, music, and software.
• Negotiating licensing agreements to allow others to use your IP.
• Enforcing your IP rights through legal action in case of infringement.

Biomedical technology, also known as bioengineering, is a fascinating field of study that merges engineering principles with biological sciences and medicine. It focuses on developing innovative technologies to improve human health and well-being.

What are the main features of biomedical technology?

• Interdisciplinary Approach: Biomedical technology draws on a wide range of disciplines like engineering, biology, chemistry, medicine, and materials science to create solutions for healthcare challenges.
• Innovation Driven: The field is constantly evolving, with researchers developing new technologies and devices to diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases.
• Improving Healthcare: Biomedical technology aims to improve the effectiveness, efficiency, and accessibility of healthcare for patients.

What are important sub-areas in biomedical technology?

• Biomaterials: Develops new materials that are compatible with the human body for use in implants, prosthetics, and drug delivery systems.
• Biomechanics: Applies engineering principles to understand the mechanics of the human body, used in designing prosthetics, implants, and rehabilitation techniques.
• Medical Imaging: Develops technologies like X-ray, MRI, and CT scans to diagnose diseases and monitor treatment progress.
• Bioinstrumentation: Creates new medical devices and instruments for diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of patients.
• Tissue Engineering: Aims to engineer human tissues and organs for transplants and to study diseases.

What are key concepts in biomedical technology?

• Biocompatibility: The ability of a material to interact with the body without causing harm or rejection.
• Biomedical devices: Instruments, equipment, and implants used for diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of medical conditions.
• Biomedical engineering ethics: Considers the ethical implications of new technologies, such as patient privacy and access to healthcare.
• Clinical trials: The process of testing new medical devices and treatments to ensure their safety and effectiveness.
• Personalized medicine: Tailoring medical treatments to individual patients based on their genetic makeup and other factors.

Who are influential figures in biomedical technology?

• Willem Kolff: A Dutch physician who pioneered the development of the artificial kidney dialysis machine.
• Aida Ginzberg: An Italian-born hematologist who played a key role in developing leukemia treatments.
• Robert Langer: An American chemical engineer who has made significant contributions to drug delivery systems and tissue engineering.

Why is biomedical technology important?

Biomedical technology is crucial because:

• It has the potential to revolutionize healthcare by providing new tools for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases.
• It can improve the quality of life for patients by offering innovative solutions for managing chronic conditions and disabilities.
• It can help reduce healthcare costs by developing more efficient and effective treatments.

How is biomedical technology applied in practice?

Biomedical technology is applied in a wide range of healthcare settings:

• Biomedical engineers design and develop medical devices and instruments used in hospitals, clinics, and research labs.
• Biomaterials scientists develop new materials for use in implants, prosthetics, and drug delivery systems.
• Tissue engineers work on creating tissues and organs for transplantation and drug discovery.
• Medical imaging specialists operate and maintain imaging equipment used for diagnostics.
• Biomechanics experts design prosthetics, implants, and rehabilitation techniques to improve mobility and function for patients.

Electrotechnology is a field of study focused on the practical application of electrical and electronic principles. It equips individuals with the knowledge and skills to design, install, maintain, and troubleshoot electrical equipment and systems used in various settings.

What are the main features of electrotechnology?

• Hands-on Approach: Electrotechnology emphasizes practical skills development through laboratory work and real-world application of electrical and electronic theories.
• Safety Focus: A core aspect of electrotechnology is adhering to safety regulations and procedures when working with electricity.
• Industry-Specific Knowledge: Programs often specialize in specific areas like power systems, industrial controls, or building automation.

What are important sub-areas in electrotechnology?

• Power Systems: Deals with the generation, transmission, distribution, and utilization of electrical power for residential, commercial, and industrial applications.
• Electronics: Focuses on electronic circuits, devices, and systems used in various applications like communication, control systems, and consumer electronics.
• Industrial Controls: Covers the design, installation, and maintenance of electrical systems used to automate and control industrial processes.
• Building Automation: Explores the use of electrical and electronic systems to control lighting, heating, ventilation, and other functions in buildings.
• Instrumentation and Control: Deals with the design, installation, and maintenance of instruments and systems used to measure, monitor, and control various physical parameters in industrial settings.

What are key concepts in electrotechnology?

• Electrical Circuits: Understanding how electricity flows in circuits, including basic components like resistors, capacitors, and inductors.
• Electronics: Knowledge of electronic devices like transistors, integrated circuits, and their applications in various circuits.
• Electrical Safety: Strict adherence to safety regulations and procedures to prevent accidents and injuries while working with electricity.
• Troubleshooting: Developing the skills to diagnose and solve problems in electrical systems.
• National Electrical Code (NEC): Understanding and adhering to the NEC, which sets the standards for safe electrical installations in the United States (or relevant national/regional electrical code in other countries).

Who are influential figures in electrotechnology?

• Thomas Edison: An American inventor who played a pivotal role in developing practical electrical systems for lighting and power distribution.
• George Westinghouse: An American engineer and businessman who championed the use of alternating current (AC) power transmission. 
• Heinrich Hertz: A German physicist whose work on electromagnetic waves laid the foundation for radio communication.

Why is electrotechnology important?

Electrotechnology is crucial because:

• It forms the foundation for a wide range of technologies that power our daily lives, from lighting and appliances to communication systems and industrial processes.
• Skilled electrotechnology professionals are essential for maintaining and upgrading our electrical infrastructure.
• The field offers rewarding career opportunities in various sectors with growing demand for skilled technicians.

How is electrotechnology applied in practice?

Electrotechnology professionals work in various settings:

• Electricians: Install, maintain, and repair electrical wiring, fixtures, and equipment in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.
• Industrial electricians: Specialize in the installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of electrical systems used in industrial settings.
• Electronics technicians: Work on electronic devices and systems used in various applications, such as computers, communication equipment, and medical devices.
• Instrumentation and control technicians: Install, maintain, and troubleshoot instruments and control systems used in industrial processes.
• Building automation technicians: Maintain and troubleshoot electrical and electronic systems used to control lighting, heating, ventilation, and other functions in buildings.

Applied mathematics is a field dedicated to using mathematical methods and techniques to solve problems arising in various scientific disciplines, engineering, and industry. It's essentially the bridge between abstract mathematical theory and practical applications in the real world.

What are the main features of applied mathematics?

• Problem-Solving Oriented: Applied mathematicians focus on tackling real-world challenges by translating them into mathematical models and using calculations and analysis to find solutions.
• Interdisciplinary Approach: The field draws upon various branches of mathematics like calculus, linear algebra, probability theory, and statistics to address problems across diverse disciplines.
• Strong Analytical Skills: Applied mathematicians excel at analyzing complex data, identifying patterns, and using mathematical tools to draw meaningful conclusions.

What are important sub-areas in applied mathematics?

• Operations Research: Applies mathematical models and optimization techniques to solve problems in areas like resource allocation, scheduling, and logistics.
• Financial Mathematics: Uses mathematics to analyze financial markets, develop risk management strategies, and design financial products.
• Data Science: Emphasizes extracting insights from large datasets using statistical analysis, machine learning, and other techniques.
• Computational Mathematics: Focuses on developing and applying numerical methods and algorithms to solve complex mathematical problems using computers.
• Mathematical Physics: Applies mathematics to study physical phenomena, model natural systems, and analyze complex physical theories.

What are key concepts in applied mathematics?

• Mathematical Modeling: Translating real-world problems into mathematical equations and frameworks for analysis.
• Numerical Analysis: Developing algorithms and techniques to solve complex mathematical problems using computers with a finite level of precision.
• Optimization Techniques: Finding the minimum or maximum value of a function subject to certain constraints, leading to the most efficient solution.
• Statistical Analysis: Using statistical methods to analyze data, identify trends, and draw meaningful conclusions.
• Scientific Computing: Developing and applying computational methods to solve scientific problems and analyze data.

Who are influential figures in applied mathematics?

• Leonhard Euler: A prolific Swiss mathematician who made significant contributions to applied mathematics in areas like mechanics, fluid dynamics, and celestial mechanics.
• Alan Turing: A key figure in computer science and artificial intelligence. His work on numerical analysis and codebreaking during World War II significantly impacted applied mathematics.
• John von Neumann: A Hungarian-American mathematician who played a pivotal role in the development of modern computers and computational mathematics.

Why is applied mathematics important?

Applied mathematics is crucial because:

• It provides a powerful toolkit for solving complex problems faced by scientists, engineers, and businesses in various fields.
• It drives innovation by enabling the development of new technologies and advancements in diverse areas like finance, healthcare, and artificial intelligence.
• It helps us understand the world around us by providing a quantitative framework for analyzing and interpreting data from various scientific disciplines.

How is applied mathematics applied in practice?

Applied mathematicians find employment in a wide range of fields:

• Operations research analysts develop and use mathematical models to optimize scheduling, logistics, and resource allocation.
• Financial mathematicians design financial products, assess risk in investments, and develop pricing models for insurance and other financial services.
• Data scientists analyze large datasets for businesses and organizations, using statistical methods and machine learning to extract insights.
• Computational scientists develop and apply computer simulations and models to solve complex problems in physics, chemistry, biology, and other scientific fields.
• Mathematical engineers use mathematics to model and analyze engineering systems, optimize designs, and develop control systems.

Mechanical engineering is a broad and versatile field that deals with the design, analysis, manufacturing, and maintenance of mechanical systems. It's essentially the engineering discipline concerned with the application of physics and engineering principles to objects in motion.

What are the main features of mechanical engineering?

• Focus on Physical Machines: Mechanical engineers create and improve machines with moving parts, considering factors like forces, motion, and energy transfer.
• Problem-Solving Through Design: They approach challenges by designing mechanical systems to fulfill specific functions, considering efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness.
• Integration of Science and Engineering: The field draws upon physics, mathematics, materials science, and other disciplines to design, analyze, and optimize mechanical systems.

What are important sub-areas in mechanical engineering?

• Machine Design: Deals with the design and development of mechanical components, machines, and systems, considering functionality, strength, and manufacturability.
• Thermodynamics: Focuses on the relationship between heat, work, and temperature in mechanical systems, ensuring efficient energy conversion and utilization.
• Mechanics of Materials: Analyzes how different materials respond to forces and stresses, allowing for the selection of appropriate materials for specific applications.
• Vibrations and Acoustics: Studies the behavior of vibrating systems and sound generation, aiming to minimize noise and ensure smooth operation of machines.
• Robotics and Automation: Applies mechanical engineering principles to design, develop, and control robots and automated systems for various tasks.

What are key concepts in mechanical engineering?

• Mechanics: Understanding forces, motion, energy, and their interactions in mechanical systems.
• Thermodynamics: Applying the principles of heat, work, and temperature to optimize energy use and conversion in machines.
• Materials Science: Selecting appropriate materials with desired properties like strength, weight, and durability for specific mechanical components.
• Computer-Aided Design (CAD): Utilizing software tools to design, analyze, and simulate mechanical systems before physical prototyping.
• Control Systems: Understanding how to control and automate mechanical systems using feedback mechanisms and control algorithms.

Who are influential figures in mechanical engineering?

• Leonardo da Vinci: A polymath who sketched and conceptualized innovative mechanical devices, including flying machines and robots, centuries ahead of their time.
• James Watt: A Scottish inventor who significantly improved the steam engine, laying the foundation for the Industrial Revolution.
• Nikola Tesla: A brilliant inventor who pioneered alternating current (AC) electricity transmission systems and developed electric motors, transformers, and other revolutionary technologies.

Why is mechanical engineering important?

Mechanical engineering is crucial because:

• It's the foundation for countless technologies that power our modern world, from transportation systems and machinery to medical devices and consumer products.
• It plays a vital role in developing new technologies that address global challenges like renewable energy generation and sustainable manufacturing processes.
• Mechanical engineers are in high demand across various industries, contributing to innovation and progress.

How is mechanical engineering applied in practice?

Mechanical engineers work on a wide range of projects:

• Machine design engineers design and develop new machines or improve existing ones, considering functionality, efficiency, and manufacturability.
• Thermodynamics engineers analyze and optimize energy use in power plants, engines, and other systems that involve heat transfer.
• Materials engineers select and develop materials with specific properties for various mechanical applications.
• Robotics engineers design, build, and program robots for industrial automation, medical procedures, and other tasks.
• HVAC engineers design and maintain heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems for buildings.

We can imagine technical natural science as a bridge between natural sciences and technical sciences. It would focus on applying scientific knowledge and methodologies from natural sciences to develop practical solutions and technologies related to the natural world.

What are the main features of technical natural science?

• Integration of Natural and Technical Sciences: Blending knowledge from physics, chemistry, biology, and earth science with engineering principles and problem-solving techniques.
• Focus on Practical Applications: Utilizing scientific understanding to address real-world challenges in areas like environmental management, resource utilization, and sustainable development.
• Data-Driven Approach: Emphasizing the use of data collected through observation, experimentation, and modeling to inform technical solutions for natural systems.

What are important sub-areas in technical natural science?

• Environmental Engineering: Applying physics, chemistry, and biology principles to address environmental issues like pollution control, resource conservation, and climate change mitigation.
• Bioengineering: Merging engineering principles with biology to develop solutions in areas like medical devices, bioremediation, and synthetic biology.
• Geological Engineering: Utilizing knowledge of earth science and engineering principles for tasks such as resource extraction, infrastructure development, and hazard mitigation in geologically active regions.
• Atmospheric Science and Engineering: Combining atmospheric science with engineering to develop weather prediction models, improve air quality, and mitigate the effects of climate change.
• Ocean Engineering: Applying engineering principles to utilize ocean resources efficiently while minimizing environmental impact.

What are key concepts in technical natural science?

• Sustainability: Developing technical solutions that consider long-term environmental and social impacts.
• Systems Thinking: Understanding the interconnectedness of natural systems and their response to human interventions.
• Data Analysis and Modeling: Utilizing scientific data to design and test technical solutions for natural systems.
• Risk Assessment and Management: Evaluating the potential risks associated with technical interventions in the natural world and developing mitigation strategies.
• Life Cycle Analysis: Considering the environmental impact of a product or technology throughout its entire life cycle, from resource extraction to disposal.

Who are influential figures in technical natural science?

• Rachel Carson: A marine biologist and writer whose work on environmental pollution sparked the modern environmental movement.
• Marie Curie: A physicist and chemist who pioneered research in radioactivity and paved the way for nuclear technologies.
• Nikola Tesla: An inventor who developed groundbreaking technologies in electricity transmission and wireless communication.
• Isambard Kingdom Brunel: A civil engineer who designed innovative bridges, tunnels, and steamships, demonstrating the practical application of scientific principles.
• George Washington Carver: An agricultural scientist who developed sustainable farming practices and new uses for crops.

Why is technical natural science important?

Technical natural science would be crucial for:

• Addressing pressing environmental challenges and promoting sustainability.
• Developing innovative technologies for resource utilization and energy production.
• Monitoring and mitigating natural hazards like earthquakes, floods, and volcanic eruptions.
• Designing infrastructure projects that are resilient and minimize environmental impact.
• Contributing to advancements in fields like medicine, agriculture, and renewable energy by providing a bridge between fundamental science and practical applications.

How is technical natural science applied in practice?

• Developing clean energy technologies like solar panels, wind turbines, and geothermal power plants.
• Designing sustainable infrastructure such as green buildings, energy-efficient transportation systems, and waste management solutions.
• Creating new materials with desired properties for applications like energy storage, pollution remediation, and lightweight structures.
• Optimizing resource extraction to minimize environmental impact and ensure long-term resource availability.
• Developing innovative medical technologies based on a deep understanding of natural biological processes.

Information systems (IS) is a well-established field of study that focuses on the design, development, implementation, and management of information technology (IT) systems within organizations. It bridges the gap between business needs and technological solutions.

What are the main features of information systems?

• Business-Technology Integration: Information systems consider the interaction between business processes, information, and technology. They ensure technology supports organizational goals and objectives.
• Data Management and Analysis: The field emphasizes effective data collection, storage, retrieval, and analysis to gain valuable insights for decision-making.
• Focus on User Needs: Designing user-centric information systems that are easy to use, meet user requirements, and contribute to a positive user experience.

What are important sub-areas in information systems?

• Database Management Systems (DBMS): Specializes in designing, implementing, and managing databases that store and organize large amounts of data efficiently.
• Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems: Deals with the selection, implementation, and management of software that integrates various business functions like finance, human resources, and supply chain management.
• Business Process Management (BPM): Analyzes and optimizes business processes to improve efficiency, considering the role of information systems in automating or streamlining tasks.
• Data Analytics: Utilizes data analysis techniques and tools to extract insights from data to inform decision-making and identify trends.
• Information Security: Focuses on protecting information systems and data from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction.

What are key concepts in information systems?

• Data Modeling: Designing a structure for organizing and managing data within an information system.
• Systems Development Life Cycle (SDLC): A structured approach for planning, designing, developing, implementing, and maintaining information systems.
• Enterprise Architecture (EA): Creating a blueprint for how information systems align with the overall business strategy and technological infrastructure.
• User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX) Design: Designing user interfaces that are visually appealing, intuitive, and meet user needs to ensure a positive user experience.
• Change Management: Effectively managing the transition from old to new information systems, mitigating resistance and ensuring user adoption.

Who are influential figures in information systems?

• Claude Shannon: A mathematician who laid the foundation for information theory, crucial for understanding how information is encoded, transmitted, and stored.
• Grace Hopper: A computer scientist who played a pivotal role in the development of early programming languages and compiler technologies, influencing software development for information systems.
• Peter Drucker: A management consultant who emphasized the importance of information for effective decision-making in organizations.
• Kenneth E. Thompson: Co-creator of the Unix operating system, a foundational technology that underpins many modern information systems.

Why is information systems important?

Information systems are crucial because:

• They enable organizations to collect, manage, and analyze data effectively, informing better decisions and improving operational efficiency.
• They facilitate communication and collaboration within and between organizations, streamlining processes and fostering innovation.
• They provide a competitive advantage by allowing organizations to leverage technology to deliver better products and services to customers.

How is information systems applied in practice?

Information systems professionals find employment in various sectors:

• Business Systems Analysts: Analyze business needs and identify opportunities for improvement through technology solutions.
• Database Administrators (DBAs): Design, implement, and manage databases, ensuring data integrity, security, and performance.
• ERP Specialists: Lead the implementation and customization of enterprise resource planning software within organizations.
• Data Analysts: Extract insights from data using statistical analysis and data visualization techniques.
• Information Security Analysts: Identify and mitigate security risks within information systems, protecting data and systems from cyber threats.