Book excerpt: Equipping you with a solid understanding of the core principles of IS and how it is practiced, the brief FUNDAMENTALS OF INFORMATION SYSTEMS, 8E covers the latest developments from the field and their impact on the rapidly changing role of today's IS professional. A concise nine chapters, this streamlined book includes expansive coverage of mobile solutions, energy and environmental concerns, cloud computing, IS careers, virtual communities, global IS work solutions, and social networking. You learn firsthand how information systems can increase profits and reduce costs as you explore new information on e-commerce and enterprise systems, artificial intelligence, virtual reality, green computing, and other issues reshaping the industry. The book also introduces the challenges and risks of computer crimes, hacking, and cyberterrorism. A long-running example illustrates how technology was used in the design, development, and production of this book. No matter where your career path may lead, FUNDAMENTALS OF INFORMATION SYSTEMS, 8E can help you maximize your success as an employee, a decision maker, and a business leader.