This week, Professor Rubin lectured on the various operating system choices that exist in the computer industry. The operating system is a critical component of your computer experience, as it manages the machine's hardware and software resources. An operating system can make using a computer easy and offer many great features for the end user. On the other hand, an operating system can also cause great frustration and trouble when it malfunctions.
The SSMS (Shaw Shower Management System) is an innovative idea that is computer-based. Computers will be implemented at multiple levels in the system: one computer will house the data, a separate server will host the web interface and a kiosk will be available in the bathroom as an "info station" for users. Each computer system serves a different purpose, thus allowing the deployment of different software platforms to create a unified solution.
The computer that stores the system data will likely utilize some version of Windows 7. Windows 7 is Microsoft's latest operating system that supports pre-emptive multitasking. This PC will be responsible for organizing all data surrounding the system's operations and usage. The computer might log the shower times into a database, record shower temperatures, and calculate average shower times. I think Windows 7 is the best choice for this part of the system because developers and others will want constant access to this data. With Windows 7, the computer can easily be used as a data collection center while also being used for other basic functions (surfing the Internet, checking email, etc).
The server hosting our web portal might run a server version of Linux. Linux, an open source operating system, provides a free alternative to Microsoft's server packages. Since this machine will be used only as a server, a GUI is less important and a command line interface would certainly suffice. Linux may also offer more advanced options for customization, and our network administrator may have more control over the portal through a Linux-based platform.
Finally, the kiosk located in the bathroom is intended to be a simple interface that displays up-to-date information about the system and its status. This terminal could run any version of Windows, which would allow for easy updating from a remote computer. Windows XP would probably be my first choice for this scenario, as the computer only needs to display a basic slideshow. Windows XP would allow a remote desktop connection, thereby eliminating the need for a keyboard and mouse at the kiosk in the bathroom.
Operating systems shape our computing experience. There are many different platforms available, and some are more conducive to certain purposes. Although my system is still just an idea, I think my technology plan is a solid one.
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