BayState Realty Case Study Essay

1. Use a table to identify the software products sited above that fall within the following categories of software: System Software General Purpose Software Application Specific Software An operating system built to control and operate the hardware system Protect the firm’s hardware platforms from intrusion, malware, and computer viruses Dell laptops and desktop computers running Microsoft’s Windows operating system Allows users to accomplish simple computer related tasks Standardizes and minimizes implementation costs Facilitates staff training Microsoft Office, Internet Explorer, Microsoft Outlook, and Microsoft SharePoint For an end user Document and management system The CRM system, an Accounting System, a Human Resource Management System, a Real Estate Sales Documentation and Management System, and a Rental Property Management System 2. Use a second table to identify and explain the various elements in the total cost of software ownership and then list the steps taken by the CIO to limit the firm’s software TCO expenditures. Elements in the Total Cost of Software Ownership Steps Taken by the CIO to Limit the Firm’s Software TCO Expenditures Software and hardware upgrades Time to renew hardware and software Training for new and current employees Hiring MIS or IT personnel Sale Price Licensing 1. Focus on the procurement and deployment of a limited set of well-established, off-the-shelf products 2. Negotiate favorable licensing terms with Microsoft for the initial acquisition of products, to standardize and minimize implementation costs, and to limit firm investments in ongoing staff training and product documentation and support 3. Work closely with their line-of-business colleagues to select best-in-breed application specific software 4. Adapt their business processes to make the best use of the software and by doing so, better control the TCO for that software 5. Implement Linux (an open source software product) as the operating system of choice for servers running shared applications 3. List the reasons why BayState Realty chose to go with off-the-shelf software instead of developing their own software packages in house. BayState is mainly focused on their real estate agencies, so by doing so they can continue to focus on their business which means it is preferable for them to go with off-the-shelf software The software has already been tested by the company. Besides the test, the software company also provides warranty service It is available for computer shops, so there are lots of computer shops solving Window software problems It can easily find the same users so they can share their experiences easily and answer any questions about the system 4. List the reasons why it makes sense to go with Linux. Be sure to include how this particular use of open source software mitigates the risks typically associated with the choice of an open source software product. Linux is free or cheaper so it is beneficial for users that it is not owned by the company The software is unlikely to get computer viruses or other malware Hardware independent – operating system in advance and advantage Community relationship – Instead of establishing customer relationships, Linux shares with lots of vendors and is part of the community not a single user. Interoperability – able to connect to networks and communities easily You can select the best tools you need 5. Compare the advantages and the disadvantages associated with outsourcing the hosting of the firm’s three web sites. Advantages: Hosts the firm’s three Web sites Saves time – Do not have to spend time to manage the website Better equipped – Proficiency in creation, innovation, and design Low cost – helps customers manage their money wisely Use the correct Internet strategy, like formulating marketing programs Disadvantages: Hidden cost – it has a low cost for website outsourcing, but there are several costs behind the price, such as signing a contract Exposing data – BayState Company is sharing their information with a third party Lack of focusing on their customers – instead of customizing, vendor may be creating an expertise-need