Question

Explain how knowledge work systems provide value for a firm. Why do you think knowledge work systems are important today? Discuss how CAD, virtual reality, and augmented reality are used today. What has been your experience with these three tools? Are there similar technologies to CAD, VR, and AR that you see on the horizon that will benefit firms in the future?

Answer 1

Knowledge work systems (KWS) are specialized systems for engineers, scientists, and other knowledge workers that are designed to promote the creation of knowledge and to ensure that new knowledge and technical expertise are properly integrated into the business. These systems reflect the special needs of knowledge workers. In this day and age, knowledge work is critical to most organizations, and insome organizations knowledge work systems produce strategic advantage or the knowledge that enables their company to keep up with others who are trying for strategic advantages.KWS must have adequate computing power to handle the specialized tasks and complex calculations, provide easy access to external databases to support research, and present a user-friendly interface. KWS software uses intensive graphics, analysis, document management, and communications capabilities. These capabilities can increase the productivity of highly paid knowledge workers. KWS often run on workstations that are customized for the work they must perform. Computer-aided design (CAD) systems and virtual reality systems, which create.

interactive simulations that behave like the real world, require graphics and powerful modeling capabilities. KWS for financial professionals provide access to external databases and the ability to analyze massive amounts of financial data very quickly.

CAD systems automate the creation and revision of designs using computers and sophisticated graphics software. Benefits include the production of more sophisticated and functional designs, reducing the time required to produce designs, reducing expensive engineering changes, preparing fewer prototypes, and facilitatingthe tooling and manufacturing process.

Virtual reality systems have visualization, rendering, and simulation capabilities. This type of system uses interactive graphics software to create computer-generated simulations that are so close to reality that users believe they are participating in a real world. The users actually feel immersed in the computer-generated world. Virtual reality provides educational, scientific, and business benefits.