Information technology

Information technology (IT) is the use of computers to store, retrieve, transmit, and manipulate data or information. IT is typically used within the context of business operations as opposed to personal or entertainment technologies. IT is considered to be a subset of information and communications technology (ICT).

History

The term information technology was coined by the Harvard Business Review, in order to make a distinction between purpose-built machines designed to perform a limited scope of functions, and general-purpose computing machines that could be programmed for various tasks. As the IT industry evolved from the mid-20th century, computing capability advanced while device cost and energy consumption fell lower, a cycle that continues today when new technologies emerge.

Architecture

IT architecture is the structural design of information technologies. It involves the design of IT systems and business architectures. It includes the design and building of IT systems, but it also involves the operation of IT systems, and the behavior of IT systems. IT architecture is the means to ensure that the information technology strategy is aligned with the business strategy.

Operations

IT operations, or IT systems management, includes the day-to-day operations of IT systems, including systems maintenance, performance management, service management, and security. IT operations are a critical aspect of most organizational operations around the world.

Management

IT management is the discipline whereby all of the information technology resources of a firm are managed in accordance with its needs and priorities. These resources may include tangible investments like computer hardware, software, data, networks and data centre facilities, as well as the staff who are hired to maintain them.

Security

Information security, also known as IT security, is the protection of information systems from theft or damage to the hardware, the software, and to the information on them, as well as from disruption or misdirection of the services they provide.

See also

• Information and communications technology
• Information security
• IT management
• IT operations

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