Unboxing IT

Computers and technology have reached a level of invisibility in our lives that is equal to indoor plumbing and electricity. We don't think about the mechanics of how they work, but when any of those systems breaks it is a MASSIVE disruption in our lives. All of us understand the basics of how a fuse box works or how to plunge a toilet, and with this book you will learn those equivalents in the IT world. This book will give a basic understanding of the various disciplines that exist within the IT world, some of the thought processes behind the methodologies IT professionals follow, and touch on some of the realities of living in a truly technological wonderland.

Christopher McCay is the director of Information Technology at Brailsford & Dunlavey, Inc.

Preface
Introduction - IT: The Black Box
The Dimensions of the Box
1 - History of IT
2 - Talking Tech
What's in the Box?
3 - What Do the Organization and IT Want From Each Other??
4 - Communicating With the Organization
5 - What Numbers to Watch?
The Walls of the Box
6 - Hardware
7 - Software
8 - Networks
9 - Help Desk
How do We Build the Box?
10 - Project Management & Methodologies
11 - Process Improvement
12 - Risk Management
13 - Vendor Management
14 - Security
Who Holds the Box?
15 - Staffing & Teachable Moments
Your Personal Box
16 - Living a Digital Life & IT Consumerization
17 - Future Watching
Closing the Box
Conclusion