Information Systems and Technology Management

• BUS-K 303 Technology and Business Analysis (3 cr.) P: BUS-K 201 or BUS-K 204 with a grade of C or higher. An introduction to the ways that technology enables and empowers business decision making.   In this introductory analytics course you will learn how companies apply technology tools to prepare, analyze, model and display the information used to manage their business.  You will apply these same techniques using spreadsheet modeling and other tools. Credit not given for both K303 and (K304 or X201 or X202).
• BUS-K 304 Honors (3 cr.) P: BUS-K 201 or BUS-K 204 with a grade of C or higher and admission to the Hutton Honors College or the Business Honors Program. This course provides an introduction to the decision making process, including both the relevant thought processes and the analytical decision-making tools used by companies to solve a variety of problems. Credit not given for both K304 and (K303 or X201 or X202).
• BUS–K 315 Business Process Management (3 cr.) P: BUS-K 303 or BUS-K 304 (honors) with a grade of C or higher. This course serves as an introduction to Business Process Management (BPM). BPM is the discipline of modeling, automating, managing and optimizing a business process, through its lifecycle, to reach a business goal. In particular, the focus is on enabling technologies of Enterprise Application Integration (EAI) and workflow. The sub-topic of automating introduces students to the numerous XML languages, such as BPML and BPEL, associated with business process management systems. Techniques in process measurement such as 6σ and process simulation are also covered.
• BUS–K 327 Deterministic Models in Operations Research (3 cr.)  P: BUS-K303 or BUS-K 304 with a grade of C or higher. This course provides a strong focus on thinking skills used to enhance the business decision making process. The class process will include breaking down a problem to its core, assembling a plan of action, and then implementing that plan with analytical tools.  Analytic analysis is not simply about the quantitative methods; rather, it must have the qualitative component to be effective – you must be able to properly define the problem.  K327 delivers a strong emphasis on both components.  The qualitative component includes critical thinking, troubleshooting, problem solving, decision making, teamwork and collaboration and process flow. The quantitative component emphasizes analytics.  In this class, we will use Excel as the technology of choice to convert data into information. Data analysis topics include data manipulation, retrieval and calculation.  An additional component of the class will be modeling the decision making process with flow charts and Excel form controls. Class examples will be derived from actual business cases and analysis.
• BUS–K 353 Business Analytics & Modeling (3cr.) P: BUS-K303 or BUS-K304 with a grade of C or higher. Compared to traditional statistics, which often provide hindsight, the field of predictive analytics seeks to find patterns and classifications that look toward the future. By finding patterns previously not seen, predictive analytics not only provides a more complete understanding of data but also is the basis for models that predict, thus, enabling managers to make better decisions.  This course is an introduction to data mining and predictive analytics. Topics include the use of learning algorithms to find patterns of relationships between data elements in large and noisy data sets, which can lead to actions that accrue organizational benefits.
• BUS-K 480 Professional Practice in Decision Sciences (3-6 cr.) Work experience in cooperating firm or agencies. Comprehensive written report.
• BUS-K 490 Independent Study in Decision Sciences (1-3 cr.) Supervised individual study and research in student's special field of interest. The student will propose the investigation desired and, in conjunction with the instructor, develop the scope of work to be completed. Consent of instructor and written report required.
• BUS-S 302 Management Information Systems (3 cr.) P: BUS-K303 or BUS-K304 with a C or higher. This course is an overview of information systems (IS) within a business context—from information technology (IT) operations to strategy. The focus is on two broad areas; how organizations should manage their IT functions and how IT enables business processes. Some of the topics covered include: enterprise architecture, IT management frameworks, technology case analysis, emerging technologies, IT implementation processes, and enterprise systems
• BUS–S 305 Technology Infrastructure (3 cr.) P: BUS-K303 or BUS-K304 with a grade of C or higher. Introduces students to a wide range of telecommunications technologies, including local area networks, wide area networks, and the Internet, as well as to the uses of these technologies in the organization.
• BUS–S 307 Data Management (3 cr.) P: BUS-K303 or BUS-K304 with a grade of C or better. The course is designed to improve the understanding of – and develop skills in – the design and implementation of business databases using database management systems (DBMS). Emphasis is on the practical aspects of database design and development. Topics include conceptual design of database systems using the entity-relationship (ER) model, logical design and normalization, physical design, and the relational database model with SQL as a language for creating and manipulating database objects. There is a significant hands-on use of DBMS technology and its use in systems design and implementation.
• BUS–S 308 Business Application Development (3 cr.) P: (BUS-K 303 or BUS-K 304) and BUS-S 302 all with a grade of C or higher. Students are introduced to the concepts of programming and software development. A modern programming language such as Visual Basic.Net or C++ is used to illustrate the concepts. Weekly lecture content is supplemented with lab sessions that provide a hands-on exposition of various programming language constructs and software development strategies. Foundational concepts in object-orientation are also introduced.
• BUS–S 310 Systems Analysis and Project Management (3 cr.) P: (BUS-K 303 or BUS-K 304) and BUS-S 302 all with a grade of C or higher. Analysis of an organization and the subsequent design of solutions to meet business requirements are at the heart of the information systems field. This course follows a structured process called the systems development life cycle that companies use to identify and solve business problems.  Alternative methodologies are also covered. Students learn tools and techniques for conducting projects, including: how to gather system requirements; how to construct models of business processes using data flow diagrams; and how to implement a new solution. WhileS310 emphasizes the system analyst role, all business students can benefit from the ability to analyze the processes, data, and computer systems that they will encounter in their work.  This knowledge will also benefit them when working with the system analyst to define strategic business solutions.
• BUS-S 326 Web and Social Media Analytics (3 cr.) P: BUS-K303 or BUS-K304 with a grade of C or better. This course explores issues related to social media and digital business. Useful tools for leveraging network resources and operating business in a networked world will be introduced.  This is a hands-on class where students analyze large data sets and have real life experience of social network analysis, sentiment analysis, web analytics, and so on.
• BUS-S 375 Introduction to Technology Consulting (1.5) Department permission required. This course offers a comprehensive overview of technology topics and trends combined with work on practical exercises that will help students to analyze business cases and present solutions in a professional manner. The course is offered as an intensive seminar comprised of videos, lectures and targeted coaching to get you ready for interviews.
• BUS–S 400 Integration of Systems and the Business (3 cr.) P: I-Core with a grade of C or better. The core of every organization's Information Systems, are accounting applications which record, control, report, and augment decision making. Both the future Accountant or Business Technologist needs to understand the importance and interconnected nature of this software. This course introduces or expands understanding of ERP software as it applies to Modern Accounting Information systems at an Enterprise level. Topics include: the SDLC, databases, fraud, internal controls (COSO and COBIT frameworks), analytics, reporting, and software project management. Students typically gain hands-on experience with leading ERP accounting software such as: SAP R/3, NetSuite, or Microsoft Dynamics. Students will draw from lecture, texts, case studies, and team projects. Course content is updated frequently to cover emerging topics and current events in this dynamic field.​ Taught concurrently with BUS-A 337; ODT majors may use either course.
• BUS–S 428 Advanced Application Development (3 cr.) P: I-Core and BUS-S 302 and BUS-S 308 all with grades of C or better.  Introduces students to advanced concepts of programming relevant to the development of business applications. The emphasis will be on the concepts of object-orientation. A modern programming language such as Java will be used to illustrate the programming concepts. UML will be used to illustrate the design concepts.
• BUS–S 433 Information Systems Security (3 cr.) P: I-Core and BUS-S302 with a grade of C or better. This course is designed to be an introduction to the field of information security. Students will learn about 1) telecommunications and network security, 2) applications security, 3) data security, 4) server and client security, 5) access control and identity management, 6) threats, vulnerabilities and controls, 7) security testing and 8) organizational security policies and procedures.  The focus of the course will be on protecting information.
• BUS-S 475 Technology Consulting Essentials (1.5 cr.) Department permission required. The objective of this course is to prepare students for careers in technology consulting. Not only is technology consulting one of the largest knowledge industries in the world, it one of the most challenging.  The process of merging business consulting with technology for an external client is one of the most challenging and rewarding professions you can choose. Technology consultants are highly sought after and compensated, but technology consulting is not for everyone. The course will present the inner workings of the technology consulting industry. Our primary learning objectives are to better understand the basics of the industry such as size, players, dynamics and history; how firms organize and manage activities and strategies; and the lifecycle of a technology consulting engagement. Other topics include selling and proposing technology consulting services, the ethical dilemmas one encounters in technology consulting, and tips for your success in consulting.

Supply Chain Management and Operations Management

• BUS-P 255 Topics in Operations and Decision Technologies (1-3 cr.) Variable topic, variable credit course in Operations and Decision Technologies.  The purpose of this course number is to provide a course number for an experimental course.  The specific variable title is only expected to be used for one term. Sample topic:
  • Business Operations Consulting Workshop (1.5 cr) P: Application and admission to the workshop. Experiences include face time with over six different industry leaders, as well as introduction and expansion on operations consulting frameworks and real life cases.  Parallel to that track, students also receive career definition and guidance, interview practice, and presentation refinement
• BUS-P 256 Business in a Flat World (3 cr.) P: Permission of the Department. Above class is offered to Direct Admit Freshman in the second 8 weeks of the Spring semester, which is followed by a required trip to India in late July/August. In view of greater global integration in economic, technological, political, and ecological spheres, it is increasingly important to understand businesses in the "flat" world.  This course focuses on global interdependence and concentrates on socio-political background as well as the business and its institutional context in India, an emerging economy
• BUS–P 271: Global Business Analysis (1.5 cr) P: D-270 with a grade of C or higher.  Students apply the country analysis skills, learned in BUS-D 270 Global Business Foundations, to a specific country or region.  Many Kelley departments offer versions of this course. This means that, while all versions focus on business analysis, each could emphasize a different field of business and/or region of the world.Sample Topic:
  • Supply Chain Management: Introduces students to concepts around the global sourcing of services, specifically IT Outsourcing. Most Fortune 1000 companies use Global Sourcing as an operational strategy to become and/or remain ‘better, faster, or cheaper.’ Common business processes (known as Business Process Outsourcing or “BPO”), include manufacturing, data processing, call centers, HR/resourcing (known as Resource Process Outsourcing or “RPO”), finance/accounting, and IT (known as IT Outsourcing or “ITO”). The IT research firm Gartner recently predicted that through 2015, IT hiring in major Western markets will come predominantly from Asian-headquartered companies enjoying double-digit growth. Global Sourcing is a fundamental subset of Globalization -- It is here to stay.
• BUS–P 272 Global Business Immersion (3 cr, 8 wks plus travel) P: D270 with a grade of C or higher.  Students begin this course with eight weeks on campus, studying similar topics as those in Global Business Analysis.  In addition, after completing this on-campus work, students spend approximately 10 days – with the class – in the country they have studied.  There, they participate in cultural and business site visits while completing their assigned research. Sample topic:
  • Infrastructure Challenges in China: Students will examine the infrastructure challenges of a country where high-tech global innovators work side-by-side with industries benefiting from inexpensive labor operating manual production processes.
• BUS–P 300 Introduction to Operations Management (3 cr.) P: A200 or A201 or A202. Only for non-business majors. The operations function is concerned with the activity associated with the production of goods and services. Provides an overview of operating decisions and practices in both manufacturing- and service-oriented firms. While no attempt is made to cover any particular area in depth, standard terms and concepts required to communicate effectively with operating personnel are introduced. No credit toward a degree in business. Students may not receive credit for both P300 and (P370, P304, or P301).
• BUS–P 304 Operations Management: Honors (3 cr.) P:  Business Honors student; completion of all I-Core prerequisites and must have Junior standing. C: M304, P304, Z304, T375. Part of Honors I-Core; students are administratively enrolled. This class is part of the honors integrative core, along with F304, M304, and J304. A survey of operations and supply chain management (OSCM), this course involves the design, planning, execution, and control of the processes which deliver the products of a firm. Topics include inventory management, demand forecasting, aggregate productions planning, shop scheduling, project management, quality control, and layout and process design. The primary focus for integration is a case problem at the end of the semester. Students may not receive credit for both P304 and (P370 or P301 or P300).
• BUS-P 316 Sustainable Operations (3cr.) We study business sustainability from an operations perspective, and its toolkits.  Tools and topics include lean, take-back legislation, environmental management systems and ISO 14001, green buildings and LEED, life cycle assessment, carbon footprint, remanufacturing, recycling, reuse, leasing and servitization, design for environment, ecolabels and sustainability in the supply chain.
• BUS–P 320 Supply Chain Management: Global Sourcing (3 cr.) P: BUS-K303 or BUS-K304 with a grade of C or higher. As many firms move from a Make-to-Buy sourcing strategy, this course examines the critical role of the Procurement function within the organization.  The objective is to provide students with a fundamental understanding of the purchasing/sourcing function, key issues and developments in purchasing and supply management within the context of SCM, and to identify ways that purchasing can make a positive contribution to the competitiveness of the firm.  The course examines the purchase process in firms and our personal lives. Topics include an intro to the field/role in SCM; developing global sourcing strategies using commodity/channel/category management; make-or-buy decisions; supplier identification and selection; contract and pricing practices; negotiation; spend analytics including value analysis for services; lean plant evaluation; contract performance monitoring; traditional verse collaborative supplier development; cross-functional relationship management, and ethics.
• BUS-P 355 Topics in Operations and Decision Technologies (1-3 cr.) Variable topic, variable credit course in Operations and Decision Technologies.  The purpose of this course number is to provide a course number for an experimental course.  The specific variable title is only expected to be used for one term.
• BUS-P 356 Lean Six Sigma (3 cr.) P: BUS-K 303 or BUS-K 304 with a grade of C or higher.  Introduce undergraduate business students to the Lean Six Sigma methodology and related statistical tools at the green belt level of competency, and to equip those students to become significant contributors on lean six sigma projects in the future.
• BUS–P 370 Integrated Business Core—Operations Component (3 cr.) P:  Completion of all I-Core prerequisites and Junior standing. C: M370, P370, Z370, and T375. Students enroll using BUS-BE 375. Cross-functional survey of business management. This course examines the processes of organizations that are used to transform the resources employed by a firm into products or services desire by customers.  This includes the processes that move product and information through the various stages of the organization.  The emphasis is on the cross-functional nature of the topic within the organization.  Topics include sourcing; Inventory management; Demand forecasting; Aggregate production planning; Logistics; Project management; Six sigma quality; and Layout and process design. Includes a cross-functional case done in teams. Students may not receive credit for both P370 and (P304 or P301 or P300). 
• BUS–P 421 Supply Chain Management (3 cr.) P: BUS-P 370 or BUS-P 304 with a grade of C C or higher. This course focuses on the strategic design of supply chains with a particular focus on understanding customer value.  Supply chain strategy examines how companies can use the supply chain to gain a competitive advantage. Students develop the ability to conceptualize, design, and implement supply chains aligned with product, market, and customer characteristics.  The course approaches supply chain management from a managerial perspective and introduces concepts in a format useful for management decision making including using case analysis, team-based learning and business presentations.  Topics include: Supply chain mapping; Supply chains and new products; Customer relationship management; Sustainability and SCM; Performance metrics; Collaboration; Customer service; and Supply chain risk management.
• BUS–P 429 Operations Processes (3 cr.) P: BUS-P 370 or BUS-P 304 with a grade of C or higher. This course focuses on the study of the processes by which products are created and delivered to customers. The course emphasizes the process flow method using three measures of process achievement: throughput (the rate of product delivery), flowtime (the time it takes to deliver that product), and inventory.  Computational analysis using simulation is emphasized.  Since changes are usually done within the context of a project, skills in the management of projects are also developed in the course. Value chain and lean management concepts related to reductions in process variability, time, and waste will be emphasized in the course.  Topics include: Little’s Law; the uses of inventory; the importance of time-based competition; Bottleneck analysis; Process design principles; Static process analysis; Value chain analysis; Process variability and quality; and managing the change process. 
• BUS–P 431 Supply Chain Management: Logistics and Distribution (3 cr.) P: BUS-P370 or BUS-P 304 with a grade of C or higher. This course is designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the logistics function within a world economy.  SCM coordinates both information and material.  Logistics is the combination of transport, storage and control of material from the raw material supplier, through all facilities, to the end customer and includes the collection of returns and recyclable material. The course encompasses both the qualitative and quantitative aspect of logistics management. It describes existing logistical practices in a global economy and examines ways and means to apply logistics principles to achieve competitive advantage. Topics include: Transportation modes; Carrier selection; Transportation costing; Developing lean logistics strategies that integrate services; Design and management of the warehouse/distribution network; Transportation planning and execution (domestic and international); IT systems in logistics including RFID; Material handling and packaging systems; and Reverse logistics.
• BUS-P 455 Topics in Operations and Decisions Technologies (1-3 cr.): Variable topic, variable credit course in Operations and Decision Technologies.  The purpose of this course number is to provide a course number for an experimental course.  The specific variable title is only expected to be used for one term.
• BUS-P 481 Supply Chain Planning and Analytics (3 cr.) P: BUS-P 370 or BUS-P 304 with a grade of C or higher. This course focuses on planning tools for managing demand and supply in a supply chain. A fundamental concern for many supply chain managers is to maintain sufficient levels of inventory so that customer demand can be met in a timely fashion. To achieve this goal, supply chain managers lead or participate in several activities that span a wide spectrum from demand planning to production planning. This course introduces models and tools to assist managerial decision-making in the context of such activities. The course puts emphasis on building quantitative models and analyzing those models through spreadsheets.