Economics and E-commerce, Fall 2000

Abstract:: Uses theoretical models and studies of "old economy" industries to help understand the growth and future of electronic commerce. Models of pricing, product differentiation, price discrimination, barriers entry, network externalities, and search provide a framework for thinking about e-businesses and the effect of the Internet on a variety of industries. Lessons drawn from studies of past innovators in technological and nontechnological industries. Models of speculative bubbles and historical examples discussed.

Information Technology I, Spring 2003

Abstract:: Broad coverage of technology concepts underlying modern computing and information management. Topics include computer architecture and operating systems, relational database systems, graphical user interfaces, networks, client/server systems, enterprise applications, cryptography, and the web. Hands-on exposure to internet services, Microsoft Access database management system, and Lotus Notes. Information Technology I helps students understand technical concepts underlying current and future developments in information technology. There will be a special emphasis on networks and distributed computing. Students will also gain some hands-on exposure to powerful, high-level tools for making computers do amazing things, without the need for conventional programming languages. Since 15.564 is an introductory course, no knowledge of how computers work or are programmed is assumed.

Abstract:: The course purpose is to provide the substance and skill necessary to make sound business decisions relating to information systems, and to work with senior line managers in the resolution of issues and problems in this area. Categories of issues which will be addressed in the course include: How do IT and its various manifestations in business, such as the Internet, affect current and future competitiveness? How do we align business strategy and plans with IT strategy and IT plans? How can we engage executives in learning and leading IT-related change? How do we implement new systems, change work behavior, manage projects? How should we organize and govern IT in an organization.

Abstract:: This course covers how to leverage major technology advances to significantly transform a business in the marketplace. There is a focus on major issues a business must deal with to transform its technical and market strategies successfully, including the organizational and cultural aspects that often cause such business transformations to fail. Class material draws from concrete experiences of IBM's major transformation in the late 1990s, when it aggressively embraced the Internet and came up with its e-business strategy.