B1.7 Applications

Application s assets are diverse in type and include artefacts, automation and tools used to support the performance of other asset types. Applications are composed of software, hardware, documents, methods, procedure s, routines, scripts and instructions. They automate, codify, enable, enhance, maintain, or mimic the properties, function s and activities of Management, Organization, Processes, Knowledge, People and Information assets. Applications derive their value in relation to these other assets. Process assets in particular commonly exist inside Applications. Applications assets consume, produce and maintain Knowledge and Information assets. They can be of various types such as general-purpose, multi-purpose and special-purpose. Some Applications are analogous to industrial tools, machinery and equipment because they enhance the performance of Process es. Others are analogous to office equipment and consumer appliances because they enhance the personal productivity of People assets. Examples of Applications are accounting software, voice mail, imaging systems, encryption devices, process control, inventory tracking, electronic design automation, mobile phones and bar code scanners. Applications are themselves supported by Infrastructure, People and Process assets. One of the most powerful attributes of Applications is that they can be creatively combined and integrated with other asset types, particularly other Applications to create valuable new assets.

B1.8 Infrastructure

Infrastructure assets have the peculiar property of existing in the form of layers defined in relation to the assets they support, especially People and Applications. They include information technology assets such as software applications, computers, storage system s, network devices, telecommunication equipment, cables, wireless links, access control devices and monitoring systems. This category of assets also includes traditional facilities such as buildings, electricity, HVAC and water supply without which it would be impossible for People, Application s and other Infrastructure assets to operate. Infrastructure assets by themselves may be composed mostly of Applications and other Infrastructure assets. Asset s viewed as Applications at one level can be utilized as infrastructure at another. This is an important principle that allows service-orientation of assets.

Дата добавления: 2015-11-14