Moore's Law: Fast, Cheap Computing and What It Means for the Manager

Moore's Law, named for the co-founder of Intel Gordon Moore, defines expected advances in the need for data storage over time. In reality, it defines much more, beyond simply data storage. Read this chapter and attempt the exercises to gain a broader understanding of the importance and costs associated with Information Systems.

Introduction

Questions and Exercises

  1. What is Moore's Law? What does it apply to?
  2. Are other aspects of computing advancing as well? At what rates?
  3. What is a microprocessor? What devices do you or your family own that contain microprocessors (and hence are impacted by Moore's Law)?
  4. What is a semiconductor? What is the substance from which most semiconductors are made?
  5. How does flash memory differ from the memory in a PC? Are both solid state?
  6. Which of the following are solid state devices: an iPod shuffle, a TiVo DVR, a typical laptop PC?
  7. Why is Moore's Law important for managers? How does it influence managerial thinking?
  8. What is price elasticity? How does Moore's Law relate to this concept? What's special about falling chip prices compared to price drops for products like clothing or food?
  9. Give examples of firms that have effectively leveraged the advancement of processing, storage, and networking technology.
  10. What are the five waves of computing? Give examples of firms and industries impacted by the fifth wave.
  11. As Moore's Law advances, technology becomes increasingly accessible to the poor. Give examples of how tech has benefited those who likely would not have been able to afford the technology of a prior generation.
  12. How have cheaper, faster chips impacted the camera industry? Give an example of the leadership shifts that have occurred in this industry.
  13. What has been the impact of "faster, cheaper" on Apple's business lines?
  14. How did Amazon utilize the steep decline in magnetic storage costs to its advantage?
  15. How does Moore's Law impact production and inventory decisions?