In SLP 1, a timeline of information systems is reviewed to see the evolution of business applications and how information systems have expanded through the years.

In the 1960s, most systems were transaction processing systems (TPS)—record keeping, accounting, and other electronic data processing (EDP), such as payroll. In the 1970s, decision support systems were born to provide ad-hoc managerial support to decision making. In the 1980s, end-user computing became popular with application software packages to support job requirements and user productivity. Executive Information Systems (EIS) were created to give executives more analytical models for decision making. In the 1990s, strategic information systems (SIS) and knowledge-based systems became an integral part to serve managers and consultants with expert advice. Also, an important development was the introduction of the Internet, extranets, and intranets, changing the capabilities of electronic business and commerce. In the 21^st century knowledge management systems (KM), business intelligence systems, and social media have been prevalent to increase the customer and business value to an organization. To appreciate information systems' contribution to organizations, the following lecture provides insight into how they are key to business operations.

Laudon, K., & Laudon, J.(2012). Essentials of MIS. (10^th Ed.). Learning track 2: The changing business environment for information technology. Retrieved fromhttp://wps.prenhall.com/wps/media/objects/14071/14409392/Learning_Tracks/Ess10_CH01_LT2_Changing_Business_Environment_of_IT.pdf

For the Module 1 SLP your assignment is to answer the following questions after you have read all module materials. 

Which organizations do you most admire today? How do these companies use information systems? Do you think technology gives them an advantage over rivals? Why or why not?

If it is a challenge answering these questions, you may want to consider the following:

1. Describe companies that produce physical products such as cars, airplanes, clothing, furniture, etc., vs. companies that solely process information or transactions such as Google, Amazon, LinkedIn, etc. What do you think are the biggest differences between these companies? Discuss why you admire one type or another. 
2. Describe how you think information systems are used in either type of company.  Can you think of some common information systems that are necessary to either type, and different information systems that only one type or the other would have?
3. For the type of company that you selected, do you think technology gives them an advantage over rivals? Why or why not?

SLP Assignment Expectations

Your paper will be evaluated on the following criteria:

Answers to the questions and the accompanying explanation must be written in 2–3 pages (excluding cover and reference pages), double-spaced.