INSTITUTE OF PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION AND MANAGEMENT (UNIVERSITY OF SIERRA LEONE) NAME: ALUSINE KAMARA ID NUMBER: 29001 CORSE: B.Sc. (HONS) APPLIED ACCOUNTING LEVEL: 3 SEMESTER: SECOND SEMESTER MODULE TITLE: COMPUTER ACCOUNTING SYSTEM MODULE CODE: ISM3213 LECTURER: MR. JONATHAN THOMAS TASK: ASSIGNMENT INTRODUCTION ICT, or information and communications technology (or technologies), is the infrastructure and components that enable modern computing. Although there is no single, universal definition of ICT, the term is generally accepted to mean all devices, networking components, applications and systems that combined allow people and organizations (i.e., businesses, nonprofit agencies, governments and criminal enterprises) to interact in the digital world. DEFINITION OF ICT Information and communications technology (ICT) is an extensional term for information technology (IT) which refers to the role of unified communications and the integration of telecommunications, such as telephone lines, wireless signals, and computers as well as necessary enterprise software, middleware, storage and audiovisual that enable users to access, store transmit and manipulate information in a digital form. ICTs are also used to refer to the convergence of media technology such as audiovisual and telephone networks with computer networks through a unified system of cabling (including signal distribution and management) or link system. COMPONENTS OF ICT They are the following components of information and communication technology. 1. Hardware This is the physical technology that works with information. Hardware also includes the peripheral devices that work with computers, such as keyboards, external disk drives, and routers. With the rise of the IoT, in which anything from home appliances to cars to clothes will receive and transmit data, sensors that interact with computers permeate the human environment. 2. Software The primary piece of system software is the operating system, such as Windows or iOS, which manages the hardware's operation. The software can be divided into two types: system software and application software. 3. Telecommunications This component connects the hardware to form a network. If computers are more dispersed, the network is called a wide area network (WAN). The internet itself can be considered a network of networks. 4. Cloud computing The term is generally used to describe data centers available to many users over the internet. Clouds may be limited to a single organization (enterprise clouds), be available to many organizations (public cloud), or a combination of both (hybrid cloud). The largest public cloud is Amazon AWS. 5. Database and data warehouse A data warehouse contains all of the data in whatever form that an organization needs. Databases and data warehouses have assumed even greater importance in information systems with the emergence of "big data," a term for the truly massive amounts of data that can be collected and analyzed. 6. Human resources The final, and possibly most important, component of information systems is the human element: the people that are needed to run the system and the procedures they follow so that the knowledge in the huge databases and data warehouses can turn into learning that can interpret what has happened in the past and guide future action. TYPES OF ICT In the past, people communicated mainly by telephone, radio, or television. The internet has made it easier to send messages and stay in touch with friends and family. Here are four main types of communication technology. Telephone: The telephone is the simplest form of communication technology. The telephone allows two people to talk to each other in real-time from anywhere in the world. Radio: Radio is a broadcast medium that uses electromagnetic waves to transmit signals from one place to another. Television: Television is a broadcast medium that combines audio and video signals to create moving images. Internet: The internet is a global network of computers that use protocols to send and receive data. The internet allows users to connect with each other and access information from all over the world. IMPORTANCES OF ICT ICT (Information and Communication Technology) plays a vital role in various sectors, providing numerous benefits and enhancing efficiency and productivity. Here's a look at the importance of ICT in different sectors: 1.Education: “ICT in education is the key to unlocking the skills and knowledge of our future generations of young people. It is the tool for learning for the 21stcentury.” Kate McKenzie ICT in Education is important! Information and communication technology (ICT) has quickly become one of the basic building blocks of modern society. 2.Medical Science: Teaching and learning medicine particularly has gone under profound changes due to computer technologies, and medical schools around the world, particularly in industrialized countries, have invested heavily in new computer technologies or in the process of adapting to this technological revolution. 3.Business Communications: ICT provides business communications avenues crucial to remaining competitive in local and global economies. According to the US census ICT survey, American business spent $296.3 billion on ICT equipment in 2008. ICT includes email, telecommunications and the internet, and involves the use of computers, telephones, fax machines and copiers, and a variety of mobile communication devices. 4.ICT in Modern life: Our modern-day world becomes more and more modern every day, with new technologies and advances coming up. ICT impacts all parts of our lives, and has had a massive impact to society, the environment and its future. People have much better standard of living. 5.Social Networking: The internet is visited by millions of people every day and up until quite recently they visited websites, chat rooms and instant messaging to share and communicate with their friends. 6.Entertainment: ICT plays an important role for entertainment. Now a days we can’t even think our life without smartphone, messenger, chat, video chat, HD camera, 3D movie, games, mp3, mp4 etc. LIMITATIONS OF ICT While Information and Communication Technology (ICT) offers numerous benefits and opportunities, it also has certain limitations that should be acknowledged. Here are some limitations of ICT: 1. Hardware is pushed to its limits. 2. Sometimes, what humans can do is hard for computers. Reading handwriting accurately, (e.g., OCR) and adapting to new environments is not easy for computers. 3. "Bugs" and design mistakes- Bugs can lead to system failure or corruption System performance depends on how it was designed. (E.g., Design stage in System Life Cycle) 4. Memory loss- Hacking or viruses or even a crashed computer can result in many lost data which can be bad for many people. 5. Software limitations - poorly written or incompatible software. NEW TECHNOLOGIES OF ICT Technology today is evolving at a rapid pace, enabling faster change and progress, causing an acceleration of the rate of change. 1. Computing Power Computing power has already established its place in the digital era, with almost every device and appliance being computerized. The more computing our devices will need, the more technicians, IT teams, relationship managers, and the customer care economy will flourish. 2. Smarter Devices Artificial intelligence has played an essential role in making our world smarter and smoother. Almost every job needs smart software applications to make our work life more manageable. Smarter devices are another addition to the IT industry that is of high requirement and demand as more companies transform into digital spaces. 3. Datafication Datafication is simply transforming everything in our life into devices or software powered by data. So, in short, Datafication is the modification of human chores and tasks into datadriven technology. 4. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning Artificial Intelligence, or AI, has already received a lot of buzz in the past decade, but it continues to be one of the new technology trends because of its notable effects on how we live, work and play are only in the early stages. 5. Robotic Process Automation (RPA) Like AI and Machine Learning, Robotic Process Automation, or RPA, is another technology that is automating jobs. RPA is the use of software to automate business processes such as interpreting applications, processing transactions, dealing with data, and even replying to emails. RPA automates repetitive tasks that people used to do. USERS OF ICT The five user types of the ICT User Typology, the Enthusiast, Practicalist, Socializer, Traditionalist, and Guardian, capture the diversity of older adult ICT users from those who are excited to those who are fearful. 1. Enthusiast An ICT enthusiast is an individual who has a strong interest and passion for Information and Communication Technology. They actively engage in exploring and learning about various aspects of ICT, such as new technologies, software applications, hardware devices, networking, and emerging trends. 2. Practicalist In the context of ICT, a practicalist may approach technology and information management with a focus on practicality. They seek to leverage ICT tools, systems, and strategies that provide tangible benefits and align with the specific requirements and goals of individuals or organizations. 3. Socializer In the context of ICT, a socializer may use technology and digital platforms as a means to connect and engage with others. They may be active on social media platforms, participate in online communities and forums, and use various communication tools to stay connected with friends, family, and colleagues. 4. Traditionalist In the context of ICT (Information and Communication Technology), a traditionalist refers to an individual who prefers to adhere to traditional or conventional practices when it comes to technology and its usage. They may be resistant to embracing new or emerging technologies and tend to rely on familiar and established ICT tools and methods. 5. Guardian In the context of ICT (Information and Communication Technology), the term "guardian" may refer to a role or concept related to the protection, security, and management of digital assets and information. ETHICAL ISSUES OF ICT Application of ICT in the society has had various impacts which range from positive to negative. The ethical issues that result from the application of ICTs range from digital divide, cybercrime, unemployment, piracy to human rights problems (Sembok 2003, p. 244). DIGITAL DIVIDE Although democratisation of technology has increased the rate of ICTs innovation as well as access to information, digital divide still exists. There exists a disparity gap between those who have the capacity to access information technology and those who do not have access to information technology. CRIME Cybercrime encompasses a wide range of computer-related crimes which range from hacking of computer systems and data to posting of malware to computer systems and websites. Computers are being cracked and controlled remotely by malicious individuals. PHONOGRAPH Images of child pornography are posted on websites and in addition to that, child pornography trade occurs through the internet. Today, the general public and several global networks use the internet to exchange child pornography. PIRACYANDLOSSOFINTELLECTUALPROPERTYRIGHTS Research carried out in 2001, by the Business Software Alliance (BSA) on global software piracy showed that poses great challenge to the software industry (Weckert & Adeney, 1997). Software piracy discourages ICT innovation and inventions and also violates intellectual property rights. EMPLOYMENT Automation of work enables organizations to reduce their workforce and operate at a lower cost. ICT RELATIONSHIP WITH COMPUTER ACCOUNTING SYSTEM Computers, servers, the Internet, wireless and personal digital devices have forever transformed the way companies conduct business. Software packages have also improved traditional operations and production processes. Accounting has sent tremendous advancements thanks to the growth of information technology. Accounting software automates the traditional paper ledgers and accounting books. Large companies may choose system-wide software packages, such as an enterprise resource planning system. Information technology (IT) has created significant benefits for accounting departments. IT networks and computer systems have shortened the lead time needed by accountants to prepare and present financial information to management and stakeholders. ICT experts are responsible for implementing computer accounting systems within organizations. They configure the software, set up databases, establish data integration with other systems, and ensure compatibility with existing ICT infrastructure. ICT professionals manage the databases that store financial data in computer accounting systems. They ensure data integrity, optimize performance, and implement security measures to protect sensitive financial information. ICT tools and technologies are utilized to analyse and process financial data in computer accounting systems. CONCLUSION Information and Communications Technology (ICT) refers to a comprehensive term that encompasses various technologies, systems, and applications. It emphasizes the integration of telecommunications, computers, and unified communications to facilitate efficient communication, data exchange, and information management. ICT includes components such as hardware devices, telecommunication networks, software applications, enterprise software, middleware, and more. The types of ICT range from basic tools like telephones and computers to advanced systems such as network infrastructure, cloud computing, and data analytics. ICT plays a crucial role in numerous sectors, including education, healthcare, business, government, and entertainment. It enables efficient data processing, communication, collaboration, and access to information, contributing to increased productivity, innovation, and economic growth. However, ICT also has its limitations and challenges. These include issues related to access and connectivity in underserved areas, privacy and security concerns, digital divide, information overload, and dependency on technology. Additionally, rapid advancements in ICT lead to ongoing challenges in keeping up with new technologies, ensuring digital literacy, and addressing ethical considerations surrounding data privacy, cybersecurity, and social impact. The relationship between ICT and computer accounting systems is significant as ICT enables the development, implementation, and integration of computerized accounting software. It streamlines financial processes, enhances data accuracy, and improves reporting capabilities. ICT professionals play a crucial role in managing databases, ensuring security, integrating systems, and providing support. In this technology-driven era, emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, and data analytics are transforming ICT and opening up new possibilities. These technologies offer opportunities for automation, real-time data analysis, smart decision-making, and enhanced user experiences. ICT users span a wide range, from individuals accessing digital tools for personal use to businesses and organizations employing ICT for operational efficiency, communication, and innovation. It is essential to address ethical issues related to data privacy, cybersecurity, and responsible technology usage. Overall, ICT is a dynamic and ever-evolving field that plays a fundamental role in our interconnected world. 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