Book excerpt: Spanning the multi-disciplinary scope of information technology, the Encyclopedia of Information Systems and Technology draws together comprehensive coverage of the inter-related aspects of information systems and technology. The topics covered in this encyclopedia encompass internationally recognized bodies of knowledge, including those of The IT BOK, the Chartered Information Technology Professionals Program, the International IT Professional Practice Program (British Computer Society), the Core Body of Knowledge for IT Professionals (Australian Computer Society), the International Computer Driving License Foundation (European Computer Driving License Foundation), and the Guide to the Software Engineering Body of Knowledge. Using the universally recognized definitions of IT and information systems from these recognized bodies of knowledge, the encyclopedia brings together the information that students, practicing professionals, researchers, and academicians need to keep their knowledge up to date. Also Available Online This Taylor & Francis encyclopedia is also available through online subscription, offering a variety of extra benefits for researchers, students, and librarians, including: Citation tracking and alerts Active reference linking Saved searches and marked lists HTML and PDF format options Contact Taylor and Francis for more information or to inquire about subscription options and print/online combination packages. US: (Tel) 1.888.318.2367; (E-mail) [email protected] International: (Tel) +44 (0) 20 7017 6062; (E-mail) [email protected]