Trace the history of system architecture, with particular emphasis on the impact of the personal computer and the Internet. Be sure to include examples.

What will be an ideal response?

The Internet has had an enormous impact on system architecture. E-business trends are reshaping the corporate landscape as firms, large and small, learn how to harness the power of the Web and build efficient, reliable, and cost-effective business solutions. In proposing an e-commerce strategy, an IT group must consider in-house development of e-business systems, the availability of packaged solutions, and the design of corporate portals. The guidelines in Figure 10-11 describe some key issues that a company must consider in planning an effective e-commerce strategy.