Technology Topic Connection

Hey there everyone!

For my final assignment, I chose to further research web and mobile applications to determine how they tie into the fundamentals of information technology. I choose this topic because, in week two's discussion assignment, students were expected to critique a web/mobile application's usability, design, and functionality and consider any possible improvements that could be made within the app. After assessing the Kaiser Permanente mobile application (as seen in my blog post web/mobile critique), I recognized all the innovative options they have implemented over the years and discovered that developers use a wide range of features to improve applications and make them more accessible and quicker for users to operate.

What are mobile/web applications?

Mobile and web-based applications are frequently used by individuals to complete daily tasks, access specific information, game, research, or keep things organized. Applications like the Kaiser Permanente app are helpful because it gives users the ability to securely access their health care information at the touch of a button. Applications like the alarm or calculator help individuals carry out specific tasks (Vahid & Lysecky, 2017). Applications not only serve as a method of accessing information but also as a way to make everyday tasks more accessible and more convenient to accomplish.

How do apps tie into the fundamental idea of information technology?

Mobile/web applications tie into the fundamental idea of information technology because an app can only be accessed using a computer, whether it be a laptop, cell phone, tablet, or kiosk. Applications are generally downloaded and stored on the computer's drive.  The app contains a specific task carried out by the computer's operating system; however, it is essential to understand that applications are not utilized to run the computer but rather to access specific material without using the web. According to Ullmann, Kedia, Homayouni, Akkus, Schmidt, Klesges, and Ward (2018), a web-based application called Memphis fit kids aims to promote healthier habits for children and their families by analyzing the family's obesity risk through determining factors. When a user inputs their specific diet, weight, height, amount of physical activity, sleep, and screen time, the application analyzes the given data then determines the best recommendations for living a healthier lifestyle using a social marketing framework (Ullmann et al., 2018).

How do apps operate?

Applications depend on major hardware components to operate (Vahid  & Lysecky, (2017). For example, when a person opens an application on their phone, computer, or tablet, the application program runs using the computer's operating system. Once the user exits the application, the app stops running. Examples of desktop applications are word processors, excel, web browsers, games, and media players. Mobile apps include Facebook, Instagram, Gmail, and Pandora. Although many applications are already embedded in computers and cell phones, users can download additional applications. Another vital thing to note is that while some applications are free to download, others require a fee or subscription.

Applications and programming languages

Mobile/web applications use programming languages to generate instructions that the computer's operating system utilizes to carry out specific tasks. Programming languages are used to develop websites, applications, programs, and other various types of services. Web and mobile application software transfer the instructions to the hardware to complete the task. The applications software receives the data and allows for different computer parts to communicate (Vahid & Lysecky, 2017).

Applications and database management

Mobile and web applications play a crucial role for many companies and businesses because they help keep track of information and allows users to manipulate data to meet specific circumstances (Vahid & Lysecky, 2017). For example, excel gives users the ability to input specific data into the cells that calculate data and generate preferred results. Generally, the findings produced by web/mobile applications are accurate and concise, which reduces the need for users to calculate the data or access the information manually. Although there have been situations where applications have experienced a bug and not ran correctly, mobile/web apps remain the most preferred way of accessing data (Ullmann et al., 2018).

How is a web/mobile app's success measured?

An application's success is measured by keeping track of the website traffic and providing random popup surveys for user feedback. To improve the FitKids application, application investigators evaluate user feedback regularly and determine the best course of improving functionality and design to accommodate the user's needs. Since the implication of the FitKid app, developers have applied various measures to improve functionality, such as adding a geographic feature and implementing income-based recommendations based on user feedback.

Network architecture, management, and security influence in web/mobile apps

The way a mobile/web application is designed is crucial when attempting to serve a purpose. For example, a game app would not contain the same format that a dictionary app encompasses, and an excel program looks very distinct from a social media platform. Ullmann et al. (2018) argues that the design of an application is crucial for users to determine the app's purpose, but the most critical factor that must be included to keep users interesting in accessing the app, is continuous management and proper security measures. According to Vahid & Lysecky (2017), "security breaches can be caused by hacks, system glitches or human error and can cause users millions of dollars of damage" (Sec. 8.1) making it essential for web/mobile application developers to manage their systems and provide software updates that close potential security vulnerabilities.

 

References:

Ullmann, G., Kedia, S. K., Homayouni, R., Akkus, C., Schmidt, M., Klesges, L. M., & Ward, K. D. (2018). Memphis FitKids: implementing a mobile-friendly web-based application to enhance parents' participation in improving child health. BMC Public Health, 18(1), 1068. https://doi-org.proxy-library.ashford.edu/10.1186/s12889-018-5968-6

Vahid, F., & Lysecky, S. (2017). Computing technology for all. https://ashford.instructure.com/courses/85897/modules/items/4339048