System Architecture

System Architecture

Components

System architecture refers to the overall design and structure of the computer network. The expansion of information technology has ensured that system architecture comprises various components. In this regard, elements refer to identifiable parts of the system that executes a particular function or group of related functions. The system architecture comprises four major components: processing power, connectivity, storage, and user experience (Sarikaya, 2017, p. 71). The complexity of system architecture varies considerably based on the requirements of the business, user needs, funding, and available resources at hand (Sarikaya, 2017, p. 75). Based on these aspects, system architecture should be flexible enough to meet the challenging needs within the shortest timeframe possible. A rigid structure will not be able to foster the efficient functioning of these components.

Relevant Functions in System Architecture

The first component of the system architecture is the processing power based on the computer or server. The processing power is closely associated with the brain component of the system. Purchasing and installing the correct processors are only possible based on the strength of the connection, applications available, proper software specifications, and the number of concurrent users (Pivoto et al., 2021, p. 179). The other essential aspect in the design of the processing power is scalability, which goes a long way in permitting additional processors to be included in the system without interrupting the current structure (Pivoto et al., 2021, p. 182). Furthermore, the other component of system architecture is storage, which is entirely based on the number and capacity of hard drives. The other determining factor is cost, as the storage increase leads to increased expenses. On the other hand, the rise in capacity changes physical space, thus making the equipment obsolete.

The other component of system architecture is connectivity, which is greatly dictated by network traffic enshrined within the system design. Just like roads in day-to-day life, the performance of the system architecture is based on proper sizing and maintaining the connectivity between all the aspects contained within the system. While upgrading the network cable, routers, switches, and other equipment is considered expensive and time-consuming, they significantly impact the system’s performance (Pivoto et al., 2021, p. 184). Lastly, user experience is entirely pegged on the performance component of the system. In many instances, business clients need help comprehending the various aspects of the system that may either positively or negatively influence the performance of their individual computers (Pivoto et al., 2021, p. 185). However, a properly-designed support system is responsive to users’ needs and can support the operations in the long run.

Communication Flow

Communication flow is the pattern through which information travels within the organization. The adequate flow of information between the four components enumerated above guarantees the smooth and timely flow of information to the intended recipients. The effectiveness of the communication system established orderly transfer of information, permitting efficient supervision to be carried out and keeping in check the activities of the junior employees while at the same time deliberating on their respective responsibilities (Fuchs, 2020, p. 239). One benefit that can be accrued as a result of implementing a well-structured communication flow is that the organization can foster communication, necessitating arrival at informed decisions and guaranteeing operational effectiveness. A successful communication flow must rely on clear channels, appropriate feedback mechanisms, and effective mediums (Fuchs, 2020, p. 292). Successful communication fosters open dialogue, builds a culture of information sharing and collaboration, and encourages active listening and transparency.

There are three broad types of communication flow: upward, downward, and horizontal. Upward communication entails transferring information from the juniors to superiors within the organizational setting. Some vital pieces of information communicated in this type of information flow include but are not limited to achievements realized, challenges experienced in performing the various roles, suggestions on what needs to be done, and any grievances relating to multiple functions (Fuchs, 2020, p. 308). These pieces of information are essential to the management team because they help understand what is happening in all the organization’s departments. On the other hand, downward communication involves the transfer of information from superiors to juniors. The information that travels along this path includes plans, policies, and instructions that must be followed to achieve organizational goals and objectives (Fuchs, 2020, p. 316). The downward flow of information is essential in an organization because it helps employees to be responsible and stick to organizational goals and objectives.

Horizontal or sideward communication is the last type of communication flow under discussion. This entails the movement of information among employees with the same level of authority in the organization. These employees often exchange ideas, experiences, views, and knowledge to make their work effective and efficient (Fuchs, 2020, p. 327). The exchange of information under the horizontal communication flow is necessary because it strengthens teamwork and collaboration among employees within organizational settings.

References

Fuchs, C. (2020). Communication and capitalism: A critical theory (p. 406). University of Westminster Press.

Pivoto, D. G., de Almeida, L. F., da Rosa Righi, R., Rodrigues, J. J., Lugli, A. B., & Alberti, A. M. (2021). Cyber-physical systems architectures for industrial Internet of things applications in Industry 4.0: A literature review. Journal of manufacturing systems, 58, 176-192.

Sarikaya, R. (2017). The technology behind personal digital assistants: An overview of the system architecture and key components. IEEE Signal Processing Magazine, 34(1), 67–81.

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The system architecture is the descriptive representation of the system’s component functions, and the communication flows between those components. This definition immediately raises some important questions:
What are “components”?
Which functions are relevant?
What is a communication flow?

System Architecture

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