IT Glossary

N

nagara

The Japanese term sometimes used to describe synchronized single-piece flow such that movement is like an assembly line but not necessarily with a physical linkage between elements.

NAP (network access point)

The point from which an Internet service provider (ISP) drops down its lines and establishes a peering arrangement to provide Internet connectivity to customers.

narrowband channels

Sub-voice-grade pathways characterized by a speed range of 100 to 200 bits per second.

NAS (network-attached storage)

A category of storage products in which the requisite hardware and software comes bundled into an integrated product, which is optimized for use as a dedicated file or storage management server attached to the enterprise's network. Ideally, NAS is platform- and OS-independent, appears to any application as another server, can be brought online without shutting down the network and requires no changes to other enterprise servers.

NAT (network address translation)

NC (network computer)

Often called a "thin client," a network computer is a limited-function desktop computer that is designed to easily connect to networks. NCs include a keyboard, mouse, monitor, memory and a network connection but only limited, if any, local disk storage. When end users want to access software or databases using an NC, they would use a graphical user interface (GUI), much as they do now with a PC. However, the software would be downloaded from a central server instead of being resident on the desktop PC; large databases would also be maintained on the central server. All software backups, upgrades and maintenance would therefore be performed centrally on the network server.

NCCJ (native code compiler for Java)

Translates byte code into a file format and binary-code representation that can be linked (using a static linker) with pre-compiled libraries and resources to form the executable program. An NCCJ provides the opportunity to optimize the structure of the program code to eliminate redundant code as well as to fine tune code sequences (e.g., loops, jumps and substitutions).

NCOP (network code of practice)

A code of standard practices for network design, intended to maintain technical standards.

NDC (networked data center)

A service that goes beyond making data center functionality available on a network. An NCC employs networking technology to treat multiple data centers and the network as a single system to efficiently access and process applications.

NDF (network dynamic functionality)

A software development and execution technology that allows applications to be written to a model designed from the outset to achieve platform independence. It affords dynamic movement and invocation of code resources over a network at runtime.

necessary non-value-adding

Non-value-adding activities that are necessary under the present operating system or equipment. They are likely to be difficult to remove in the short term but may be possible to eliminate in the medium term by changing equipment or processes. Often used to describe regulatory compliance activity that adds no direct customer value but is required to maintain the "license to operate."

nemawashi

"Lining up the ducks" or "going among the roots" (literally) – the activity of laying a foundation for further activity.

.NET

At its core, .NET represents Microsoft's implementation of the Web services concept, which treats software as a set of services accessible over ubiquitous networks using Web-based standards and protocols, although Microsoft has broadly applied the .NET moniker to several independent technologies and initiatives that have little to do with Web services (for example, .NET Enterprise Servers).

As a software infrastructure, .NET consists of two programming models:

• A Web services programming model, which exposes programming interfaces through Internet standards. This loosely coupled model uses HTTP and other Internet protocols as the main underlying transport mechanisms, and also uses XML, SOAP, WSDL and Universal Description, Discovery and Integration. Initially, most of this model will use a request/reply communications style.
• A system programming model designed to supersede Microsoft's COM and the Windows application programming interfaces over time. This model introduces a new set of fundamental classes and a new runtime environment – the Common Language Runtime – providing an object-oriented class hierarchy structure as part of the application runtime environment. It also provides classes and mechanisms that enable programs to be "wrapped" as Web services, so it can ease – but is not required for – Web services development.

net new connections

Gross new connections minus the number of disconnections from the network in a given period.

network

Any number of computers (e.g., PCs and servers) and devices (e.g., printers and modems) joined together by a physical communications link. In the enterprise context, networks allow information to be passed between computers, irrespective of where those computers are located. Networks provide the roads for information traffic (e.g., sending files and e-mail) within a corporate environment, and allow users to access databases and share applications residing on servers. If a network does not go outside of a company building, or campus, then it is known as a local-area network (LAN). If it has a bridge to other outside networks, usually via lines owned by public telecommunications carriers like AT&T, then it is known as a wide-area network (WAN).

network appliance

A type of computing appliance that aids in the flow of information to other network-connected computing devices. Services that may be provided by a network appliance include firewall functions, caching, authentication, network address translation and IP address management.

network computing

A client/server application architecture with dynamic application deployment, execution and management. Network computing is characterized by four properties: dynamic cached propagation; write once, run anywhere; automatic platform adjustment; and network context storage.

network database

A database organized according to ownership of records, allowing records to have multiple owners and thus providing multiple access paths to the data. Database management systems (DBMSs) providing such capabilities are also known as CODASYL (Conference on Data Systems Languages) DBMSs.

network management

These are applications designed to isolate and resolve faults on the network, measure and optimize performance, manage the network topology, track resource use over time, initially provision and reconfigure elements, and account for network elements. Suites that include fault monitoring and diagnosis, provisioning/configuration, accounting, performance management, and TCP/IP application management – but only for networks – are also included here. This network management segment is intended for products that are mainly or entirely network-oriented and used primarily by enterprises.

Also included in this category are network CM tools. These tools set, change, collect and restore information about network devices (such as bridges, routers, switches and so forth).

network outsourcing (enterprise and public network)

Network outsourcing is a multiyear or annuity contract/relationship involving the purchase of ongoing network or telecom management services for managing, enhancing, maintaining and supporting premises or core network infrastructure or enterprise telecommunications assets (including fixed and wireless). In addition to network or telecommunications management, network outsourcing isolates those services specifically delivered in a longer-term contract in support of network infrastructures: consulting/advisory services, network AD and integration, network infrastructure deployment and support services.

Gartner segments network outsourcing into two categories: enterprise network outsourcing and public network outsourcing. Enterprise network outsourcing does not include discrete, project-based professional services or staff augmentation services. Also, enterprise network outsourcing does not include services related to the physical cable plant or other facilities-related services (such as power conditioning). For public network outsourcing, we include services related to the carrier network, business and operations support systems. Internal ITO is not considered, nor are services related to public network facilities and logistics planning (for example, DC power, land acquisition and tower placement). Similarly, discrete, project-based professional services or staff augmentation services (commonly referred to as engineer-furnish-install) are not included in public network outsourcing.

network performance tuning/configuring facilities

The ability to configure combinations of local-area networks (LANs) and wide-area networks (WANs) centrally and dynamically based on anticipation and prioritization of data traffic volumes. Physical data paths could be configured based on data traffic content (i.e., transaction type). This is particularly important for online transaction processing (OLTP) applications.

network redundancy

A communications pathway that has additional links to connect all nodes in case one link goes down.

network security

Measures taken to protect a communications pathway from unauthorized access to, and accidental or willful interference of, regular operations.

network topology

Describes the physical and logical relationship of nodes in a network, the schematic arrangement of the links and nodes, or some hybrid combination thereof.

network virtual terminal

A communications concept describing a variety of data terminal equipment (DTE), with different data rates, protocols, codes and formats, accommodated in the same network. This is done as a result of network processing where each device's data is converted into a network standard format, then converted into the format of the receiving device at the destination end.

neural net or neural network

An artificial-intelligence processing method within a computer that allows self-learning from experience. Neural nets can develop conclusions from a complex and seemingly unrelated set of information.

NEXT (near-end crosstalk)

Unwanted energy transferred from one circuit, usually to an adjoining circuit. It occurs at the end of the transmission link where the signal source is located, with the absorbed energy usually propagated in the opposite direction of the absorbing channel's normal current flow. It is usually caused by high-frequency or unbalanced signals and insufficient shielding.

NFC (near field communication)

Emerging short-range networking technique designed to provide a means of conducting secure transactions for consumer applications. NFC enables a combination of RFID and connectivity-enabling devices to read tags and conduct transactions, and operates over a range of 10 centimeters, or about 4 inches. The physical, data link and networking layer specifications were released in October 2003 as ISO 18092. The Near Field Communication Forum industry body is developing higher-level protocols focusing on incorporating NFC for making transactions on mobile phones, PCs and consumer electronics. NFC is unique among short-range wireless technologies in that it uses magnetic induction rather than electromagnetic waves. It will be capable of working in conjunction with other wireless technologies to simplify and effectively establish secure connections between devices enabled by Bluetooth, UWB and ZigBee to exchange pairing information. See also FeliCa.

NG (next-generation)

NGN (next-generation network)

Generic term that describes the evolution and migration of fixed and mobile network infrastructures from distinct, proprietary networks to converged networks based on IP.

NIC (network interface card)

The bus-specific adapter that connects an end station or server to a local-area network (LAN). It plugs into an expansion slot on a workstation or server that is to be networked and has a connector for the network cabling.

NLO (net-liberated organization)

A Gartner concept describing an organizational philosophy enabled by the advent of the Internet and related Web technologies. Rather than "bolting on" Web initiatives to mainstream operations (i.e., integrating the Internet into business processes, but leaving the structure of these processes intact) an NLO uses these technologies to liberate itself from the constraints of traditional business environments that focus on local and physical infrastructures.

The goal of an NLO is to transform the enterprise into one that is more agile, and thus better able to meet customer demands. As such, the Internet is the primary enabler of liberating organizations from constraints associated with:

• Time (when business is conducted)
• Place (where business is conducted)
• Hierarchy (how people interrelate)
• Ownership (who owns the assets deployed for business)
• Information (how information is disseminated and used in human and process activities)

NLP (natural-language processing)

The process of converting narrative text to coded facts. Typically, a body of information – such as a series of publications, reports or even a collection of messages – is analyzed and the results displayed as dominant associations or relationships, and show which topics or subjects occurred most frequently.

NLU (natural-language understanding)

The comprehension by computers of the structure and meaning of human language (e.g., English, Spanish, Japanese), allowing users to interact with the computer using natural sentences.

NMC (network management center)

The center used for control of a network. It may provide traffic analysis, call detail recording, configuration control, fault detection and diagnosis and maintenance.

NMOS (N-channel metal-oxide semiconductor)

A microelectronic circuit used for logic and memory chips and in complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) design. NMOS transistors are faster than the P-channel metal-oxide semiconductor (PMOS) counterpart, and more of them can be put on a single chip.

NMT-450 (Nordic Mobile Telephone)

A cellular standard that operates in the 450MHz band. It is the original specification for analog cellular telephony developed for the four Nordic countries and was subsequently deployed in some Eastern European, South American and Asia/Pacific countries.

NMT-900

NMT standard operating at 900MHz.

NMT-F

French variation of the NMT-900 standard.

Node B

WCDMA/UMTS term for a radio base station receiver, as defined by the 3GPP. It provides radio coverage and converts data between the radio network and the RNCs.

nomadic wireless

Term used by the WiMAX Forum for semimobile wireless. The terms "nomadic," "portable" and "mobile" often vary in definition when used by vendors. See also fixed wireless and mobile wireless.

non-cable consumer fixed broadband penetration

Non-cable consumer fixed broadband incorporates FTTH, fiber to the premises (FTTP), Ethernet, DSL and other high-speed broadband services. It excludes cable broadband. The forecast for these calculations are taken from Gartner's "Forecast: Consumer Fixed Voice, Internet and Broadband Services, Worldwide, 2007-2013" and other regional forecasts.

non-value-adding

Those activities within a company or supply chain that do not directly contribute to satisfying end consumers' requirements. It is useful to think of these as activities that consumers would not be happy to pay for.

nonwireline cellular carrier

A U.S. term referring to Block A carriers. Nonwireline or Block A systems operate on radio frequencies from 824 to 848 megahertz (MHz).

NOS (network operating system)

A set of software utilities that, working in conjunction with an operating system, provides the local-area network (LAN) user interface and controls network operation. A network operating system communicates with the LAN hardware and enables users to communicate with one another and to share files and peripherals. Typically, a NOS provides file-to-print services, directory services and security.

notebook

A computer system designed for portability. It comes with a battery and typically measures 8.5 inches by 11 inches and weighs less than 8 pounds with the battery and weight-saver modules. Notebooks use flat-panel color screens of Super Video Graphics Array (SVGA) resolution or higher. They offer expansion through PC-Card technologies and have specialized integrated pointing devices. Types of notebooks include:

• Desktop Alternative: This is a computer system that meets all the criteria for a notebook PC but is designed to replicate the functionality of a desktop. It weighs 6 pounds or above. The screen can be as large as 15 inches or 16 inches with SVGA resolution or higher. Target markets include engineers and end users wanting to travel carrying minimal weight.
• Mainstream: This is a computer system that meets all the criteria for a notebook PC but is designed to be the best compromise between all-inclusive functionality and light weight. Mainstream notebooks weigh between 4.5 and 6 pounds with the weight-saver and battery modules. Mainstream notebooks often have a single bay for the inclusion of a peripheral, such as a CD-ROM.
• Ultraportable: This is a computer system that meets all the criteria for a notebook PC but is lighter and may not have an internal floppy disk drive. It typically weighs 4 pounds or less with the battery and weight-saver modules. The keyboard and screen are often compromised to meet weight targets and the unit must be augmented with a standard keyboard and mouse for long-term use.

notification services

Notification services are applications used to notify teams such as medical staff, technical assistants and financial brokers – as well as customers or other regular recipients – of events, alerts or calls. Notification can be sent via a user's preferred channel of communication, such as voice mail, e-mail, SMS, IM or phone. Notification services can also be used by team co-workers to escalate unresolved issues to management.

NPV (net present value)

An accounting tool that captures the net value of an investment at the current instant in time by taking the sum of the discounted cash flow less the current investment.

NSM (network and systems management)

The intersection of networking, network management and systems management. The vision of NSM (also known as "networked systems management")is to enable the management of a distributed set of systems in a fashion similar to that in which many centralized data centers are managed.

NSP (network service provider)

Any provider of network services, interexchange carriers (IXCs) and Internet service providers (ISPs).

NTC (National Telecommunications Commission, Republic of the Philippines)

Communications regulator for information and communication technology in the Philippines, an agency of the Department of Transportation.

O

OASIS (Organization for the Advancement of Structured Information Standards)

An international nonprofit consortium that promotes open, collaborative development of e-business specifications based on public standards such as XML and SGML.

object-based middleware

Runtime software that enables objects (components) to work cooperatively with a container program or another object, even if the software is distributed across multiple computers.

object-based technologies

Technologies in which objects have encapsulation.

object class

A grouping of objects that can be described in terms of the attributes its members have in common. Generic e-mail, for example, could be an object class, because all e-mail systems have certain things in common.

object data model

A data model based on object-oriented programming, associating methods (procedures) with objects that can benefit from class hierarchies. Thus, "objects" are levels of abstraction that include attributes and behavior. An object-oriented data model is one that extends the individual program space into the world of persistent object management and shareability.

object encapsulation

Hiding complexity. Data and procedures may be encapsulated to produce a single object.

object inheritance

Inheritance defines a relationship among classes in which a subclass shares, overrides or supplements operations or data values from one or more superclasses. A subclass is a specialization of one or more superclasses.

object instance

A specific occurrence of an object. For example, a specific mail message document is an instance.

object late binding

Runtime interpretation of messages. Using late binding, objects are integrated at runtime, as opposed to compiling an integrated object. This greatly enhances flexibility.

object management

Middleware that manages the naming, location and invocation of objects in a system.

object message passing

In object-oriented systems, one object never operates on another. Instead, one object may pass a message to another object requesting invocation of a method – e.g., "print yourself," "display yourself" or "file yourself."

object method

Methods define what can be done with an object. Methods for an electronic-mail document may be display, send, file or print.

object-oriented system

In an object-oriented system, all data is represented as discrete objects with which the user and other objects may interact. Each object contains data as well as information about the executable file needed to interpret that data. An object-oriented system allows the user to focus completely on tasks rather than tools. Examples of object-oriented programming languages include C++ and Smalltalk.

OBSAI (Open Base Station Architecture Initiative)

Industry initiative to produce a number of common, open interfaces within the base station. OBSAI is working to define three internal base station interfaces across GSM/EDGE, cdma2000 and WCDMA. Unlike CPRI, OBSAI is open for membership to all industry players, but the interfaces are not available to non-OBSAI members.

ODM (own design manufacturer)

A company that designs, develops and manufactures mobile devices under contract. These devices are sold to end users under the brand of the mobile-device vendor, wireless service provider or contract partner. Examples of ODMs include Taiwan-based BenQ, GVC and HTC.

ODP (on-device portal)

Small downloadable mobile applications provided by media companies, handset vendors and some operators that make it easier for users to obtain new services such as music, videos, games and applications "off-deck" – that is, from independent websites. The traditional operator approach to media distribution has been to allow access only to an operator-controlled "walled garden" of content. This has not been popular with consumers, and many operators now allow open access to the Internet, seeking revenue growth from increased data traffic. Examples of ODPs include the Apple iPhone's top-level menu and mobile clients such as Flickr and Facebook. See also off-deck portal.

ODS (operational data store)

A new articulation of the perennial concept of shared production data. Different from a data warehouse, the ODS is an alternative to having operational decision support system (DSS) applications access data directly from the database that supports transaction processing (TP).

While both require a significant amount of planning, the ODS tends to focus on the operational requirements of a particular business process (for example, customer service), and on the need to allow updates and propagate those updates back to the source operational system from which the data elements were obtained. The data warehouse, on the other hand, provides an architecture for decision makers to access data to perform strategic analysis, which often involves historical and cross-functional data and the need to support many applications.

OEM (original equipment manufacturer)

The term "OEM" is used to describe a technology provider that distributes output devices produced by another company under its own brand name. For example, Kyocera Mita is a manufacturer but also supplies products to be sold under the Olympia, Triumph-Adler and Utax OEM brands.

Ofcom (Office of Communications)

Regulator and competition authority for communications in the U.K., with responsibilities across TV, radio, telecommunications and wireless-communication services. See also Office of Communications.

OFDM (orthogonal frequency division multiplexing)

Spread spectrum modulation technology that uses different carrier frequencies spread across a frequency band to carry data traffic. OFDM is spectrally more efficient than traditional wide-area wireless technologies. Variations on OFDM are included in 802.20 and 802.16 technologies, as well as being under consideration for use in other future wireless technologies, including LTE and 4G. See also Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access (OFDMA).

OFDMA (orthogonal frequency division multiple access)

Based on OFDM, multiple access is achieved by assigning subsets of subcarriers to individual users. Adaptive subcarrier assignment (including different numbers of subcarriers to different users) means that OFDMA can support QoS and is potentially more spectrally efficient and less susceptible to fading and interference than OFDM. OFDMA is a required technology for mobile WiMAX and LTE. See also LTE, OFDM and WiMAX.

off-deck portal

Service or website not controlled by the network service provider (NSP) where consumers can access, rent or buy media content – typically using an on-device portal. NSPs traditionally have tried to maintain a "walled garden" approach to content, but this has not been popular with consumers. Many operators now allow open access to the Internet, seeking revenue growth from increased data traffic. Examples of off-deck portals include Apple's iTunes and YouTube. See also on-device portal.

offshore programming

The contracting by a company for software services to be carried out in a country other than its own – e.g., a user located in North America may choose to have applications maintenance work carried out in India.

off-the-shelf

Equipment already manufactured and available for delivery from stock.

OFTA (Office of the Telecommunications Authority)

Regulator and competition authority for the telecommunications industry in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China. See also Office of the Telecommunications Authority.

OHA (Open Handset Alliance)

Established by Google in November 2007 and includes handset and electronics manufacturers such as HTC, Intel, LG, Motorola, Nvidia, Qualcomm, Samsung Electronics and T-Mobile. OHA was formed to develop open standards for mobile devices and has released an open-source, mobile-phone platform called Android based on the Linux OS. See also Android.

OIS (office information system)

The architectural reference frame for the construction of an office solution that meets the needs that originate at all levels (individual, departmental and corporate), integrating them in a functional sense.

OLAP (online analytical processing)

A definition of multidimensional business intelligence (BI) servers, OLAP originated with a Code and Date white paper that defined 12 "OLAP product evaluation rules" as the basis for selecting multidimensional products. OLAP is, in truth, only a new name for a class of BI products, some of which have existed for decades. The 12 evaluation rules for providing OLAP to user-analysts are:

1. Multidimensional conceptual view
2. Transparency
3. Accessibility
4. Consistent reporting performance
5. Client/server architecture
6. Generic dimensionality
7. Dynamic sparse matrix handling
8. Multiuser support
9. Unrestricted cross-dimensional operations
10. Intuitive data manipulation
11. Flexible reporting
12. Unlimited dimensions and levels

OLCP (online complex processing)

An extension of online transaction processing (OLTP) to include concurrent ad hoc query and batch processing.

OLE (Object Linking and Embedding)

A Microsoft protocol that enables creation of compound documents with embedded links to applications, so that a user does not have to switch from one application to another to make revisions. With OLE:

• Users can create compound documents using multiple applications.
• Compound documents may contain text and spreadsheet objects, graphic and chart objects, sound objects, and video and animated objects.
• Objects that support OLE automation may be scripted by OLE controllers, such as Visual Basic, and used in end-user-developed applications.

OLED (organic light-emitting diode)

Display consisting of pixels of electroluminescent organic compounds "printed" in a matrix onto a flexible polymer layer, and which emits light of different colors. Unlike liquid crystal displays, OLED displays do not require a backlight and consume very little power, making them suitable for battery-powered devices. See also LEP.

OLTP (online transaction processing)

A mode of processing that is characterized by short transactions recording business events and that normally requires high availability and consistent, short response times. This category of applications requires that a request for service be answered within a predictable period that approaches "real time." Unlike traditional mainframe data processing, in which data is processed only at specific times, transaction processing puts terminals online, where they can update the database instantly to reflect changes as they occur. In other words, the data processing models the actual business in real time, and a transaction transforms this model from one business state to another. Tasks such as making reservations, scheduling and inventory control are especially complex; all the information must be current.

OLTP monitor

Midrange system software designed to enhance the efficiency of online transaction-processing applications by providing screen mapping, transaction queuing, service prioritization, communications buffering and security.

OLTP screen-formatting front end

A cooperative processing facility that offloads screen formatting from a midrange system-resident online transaction processing (OLTP) system to a PC. The application programmer should be able to define a single set of screen-formatting maps without regard to whether the formatting is performed at the midrange system or at the PC.

OMA (Open Mobile Alliance)

Industry open-standards forum set up to facilitate global user adoption of mobile data services by ensuring service interoperability across devices, geographies, service providers, operators and networks. See also Open Mobile Alliance.

OMS (opportunity management system)

A system tied closely to the sales process; it is the framework for any sales force automation (SFA) design. All other applications are subordinate to the OMS. Transactions flow from the OMS to other applications on the users' portable computers. Applications can be integrated among vendors.

OMS (order management system)

Provides the order-taking capability within the supply chain environment. The OMS typically provides the orders to a warehouse management system for execution – i.e., picking, packing and shipping.

OO (object-oriented or object orientation)

An umbrella concept used to describe a suite of technologies that enable software to be highly modular and reusable; applications, data, networks and computing systems are treated as objects that can be mixed and matched flexibly rather than as components of a system with built-in relationships. As a result, an application need not be tied to a specific system or data to a specific application. The four central object-oriented concepts are encapsulation, message passing, inheritance and late binding.

OOA&D (object-oriented analysis and design)

Object-oriented analysis and design (OOA&D) tools support object analysis and design technologies and commonly use Unified Modeling Language (UML) notation with a variety of methodologies to assist in the creation of highly modular and reusable software. Most also support the use of Domain Specific Language concepts as a complement to UML. Applications, data, networks and computing systems are treated as objects that can be mixed and matched flexibly rather than as components of a system with built-in relationships. As a result, an application does not need to be tied to a specific system or data to a specific application.

Please note that the UML standard from Object Management Group (OMG) has become the de facto standard for OOA&D tools.

OODBMS (object-oriented database management system)

A database management system (DBMS) that applies concepts of object-oriented programming, and applies them to the management of persistent objects on behalf of multiple users, with capabilities for security, integrity, recovery and contention management. An OODBMS is based on the principles of "objects," namely abstract data types, classes, inheritance mechanisms, polymorphism, dynamic binding and message passing.

OOP (object-oriented programming)

A style of programming characterized by the identification of classes of objects closely linked with the methods (functions) with which they are associated. It also includes ideas of inheritance of attributes and methods. It is a technique based on a mathematical discipline, called "abstract data types," for storing data with the procedures needed to process that data. OOP offers the potential to evolve programming to a higher level of abstraction.

OOT (object-oriented technology)

A software design model in which objects contain both data and the instructions that work on the data. It is increasingly deployed in distributed computing.

open architecture

A technology infrastructure with specifications that are public as opposed to proprietary. This includes officially approved standards as well as privately designed architectures, the specifications of which are made public by their designers. The IBM PC, for example, was based on an open architecture, and spawned an entire industry of IBM clones.

open source

Describes software that comes with permission to use, copy and distribute, either as is or with modifications, and that may be offered either free or with a charge. The source code must be made available.

open-source software

The open-source software model describes a set of characteristics and properties for developing, delivering and supporting software. Open source is licensed software in which the source code is made available to users so that they are enabled with the freedom to modify it for their own purposes and, with very limited restrictions, redistribute original and derived works as they see fit.

Open-source software comes with permission to use, modify, copy and distribute, either freely or for a small charge. The source code must be made available. Restrictions are often applied, through an "open-source license" such as the GNU General Public License (GPL) or the Berkeley Software Distribution (BSD) license, to profits or fees for any commercial product built on a base of open-source software.open system

A system whose interfaces – for example, application programming interfaces (APIs) or protocols – conform to formal, multilateral, generally available industry standards. "Formal" implies that the standard is selected and maintained using a structured, public process (i.e., de facto standards, such as those developed by the Open Software Foundation). "Multilateral" implies that, while nothing is ever completely vendor-neutral, the standard is not controlled by a single vendor. "Generally available" implies that the specifications are fully published (preferably with source code of a reference implementation), and that anyone can readily obtain license rights for free or at low cost.

operational resource management

A method for acquiring a better view into the cost of goods and services to yield enterprisewide financial control that streamlines the maintenance, repair and operations (MRO) procurement process (indirect goods) and supply chain control.

operations services

These services handle the transfer of all or part of the day-to-day system management responsibility for a customer's IT infrastructure (host/data center, client/desktop or connectivity/network) and, in some cases, the transfer of ownership of the technology or personnel assets to an outside vendor. Services may include systems operation or support, administration, security, performance monitoring, technical diagnostics/troubleshooting, configuration management, system repair management, and generation of management reports. Also included are services to manage and implement business continuation processes and the management of technology assets.

operational technologies

Gartner's definition of operational technologies include:

• Systems that deal with the actual running of plant and equipment
• Devices to ensure physical system integrity and to meet technical constraints
• Event-driven and frequently real-time software applications or devices with embedded software

optical disc

A disk read or written by light, generally laser light; such a disk may store video, audio or digital data.

optical transport

The transport function relates to the high-capacity system that aggregates traffic and links network nodes over relatively long distances. It provides the paths (or "pipes") along which the switching and routing functions steer information. It does so using technologies such as Synchronous Digital Hierarchy (SDH)/Synchronous Optical Network (SONET), digital cross-connects (DXCs)/digital cross-connect systems (DCSs), long-haul dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM), metro wavelength division multiplexing (WDM), and optical exchange equipment (OXE), including reconfigurable optical add/drop multiplexers (ROADMs), as well as carrier Ethernet transport equipment. Along with multiplexing technology, cross-connect technology is covered here rather than in the switching category because it is used to patch links that are rerouted as needed and, therefore, considered as "provisioning" technology.

optimization routines

Routines used to determine the optimal solution for a particular problem. These routines are included in supply chain execution and supply chain planning applications to reduce costs or time in the supply chain, and usually are tactically focused for use in current operations.

option analysis

A statistical technique based on the idea that changes over time will affect the cost and benefit of a future IT investment. If it has no option to change the decision, the IT organization must abide by the original decision. However, by creating an option for a decision in the future, the IT organization can choose to pursue IT investments that are then deemed profitable.

ORB (object request broker)

ORBs are an enriched middleware platform – compared with their predecessors, RPC middleware – including program activation, which most RPCs did not offer. Full-featured CORBA ORBs are transactional platforms, with a special affinity for the object-oriented programming model, including the activation and communications services that are particularly geared to the object-oriented software model. ORB vendors added transaction management, security and other features to their ORBs to enable demanding production applications. OMG CORBA emerged as the widely shared standard programming model for ORBs.

order management

Order management is a business process, not a specific market. Much of the functionality attributed to order management is embedded within and touches components within the CRM, ERP and SCM markets as it guides products and services through order entry, processing and tracking.

ORM (object role modeling)

A proprietary method that uses English to convey data design elements. The object is to enable developers to easily present the elements to end users who are unfamiliar with modeling notation.

ORM (operational resource management)

A method of managing of an organization's operating resources.

OR mapping tools (object-relational mapping tools)

Tools that attempt to automate the mapping from object-oriented (OO) programming structures to relational storage structures. They are similar in intent to application integration middleware, which is designed to enable the interoperation of heterogeneous systems. However, they are different in the following important ways:

• The mapping layer is not runtime software that can be adjusted after deployment. OR mapping is done at development time, producing a compiled translation between objects and relational database management systems (RDBMSs).

OR mapping tools map between data models, application integration middleware maps, message protocols and occasionally message contents. In this way, OR mapping tools seek to integrate at a deeper level than most other forms of middleware.

OS (operating system)

An OS is software that, after being loaded into the computer by an initial boot program, manages a computer's resources, controlling the flow of information into and from a main processor. OSs perform complex tasks, such as memory management, control of displays and other input/output peripheral devices, networking and file management, and other resource allocation functions between software and system components. The OS provides the foundation on which applications, middleware and other infrastructure components function. OS usually provides user interfaces, such as command-line shell and GUI, for interaction between user and computer.

OS revenue is tracked for analyzing the changing popularity of different platforms provided by software vendors. We track the following key subsegments in OS:

• Unix
• Linux
• Windows
• Others

With the recent emergence of application servers, Java EE and .NET have almost become operating environments or deployment environments. At this time, however, we classify Java EE products as infrastructure applications that run on particular underlying OS deployment environments, such as Windows, Solaris, AIX, HP-UX, Linux and others. Client OSs run on stand-alone devices, such as desktops and laptops, and are designed to be used by a single individual on a single device. Server OSs run on more powerful hardware, often with multiple CPUs or multicore CPUs, and are designed to be accessed by many users in a shared fashion simultaneously.

With the advent of virtualization technologies, many OSs are deployed and reside in the form of a virtual machine (VM). Many users consider VMware, Xen and Hyper-V to be OSs because they perform hardware control functions that an OS will normally do. Gartner classifies virtualization software as a segment separate from the other OS subsegments.

Osaifu Keitai (literally "wallet mobile phone")

Mobile phones available in Japan that contain an embedded FeliCa NFC card. This enables the mobile phone to be used for many forms of e-commerce, including train tickets, mobile payments, vending machines, membership services and identification for building entry. NTT DoCoMo first introduced these devices in 2005, followed by other major Japanese operators, such as KDDI and SoftBank Mobile, in the same year. See also FeliCa.

OSI (Open Systems Interconnection)

A model developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) for communications. It is similar in structure to Systems Network Architecture (SNA), but more open. A standard, modular approach to network design that divides the required set of complex functions into manageable, self-contained, functional layers. These layers, starting from the innermost, are:

1. Physical layer – concerned with the mechanical and electrical means by which devices are physically connected and data is transmitted.
2. Link layer – concerned with how to move data reliably across the physical data link.
3. Network layer – provides the means to establish, maintain and terminate connections between systems. Concerned with switching and routing information.
4. Transport layer – concerned with end-to-end data integrity and quality of service.
5. Session layer – standardizes the task of setting up a session and terminating it. Coordinates the interaction between end application processes.
6. Presentation layer – relates to the character set and data code that is used, and to the way data is displayed on a screen or printer.
7. Application layer – concerned with the higher-level functions that support application or system activities.

OSI management

The facilities to control, coordinate and monitor the resources that enable communications in an Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) environment.

OSS (operations support system)

Facilitates the operations of a communication carrier's transport network. OSS can be thought of as network-facing systems and includes the following solution areas (see also BSS):

• Inventory management tracks and manages all network assets (tangible and intangible). In this ongoing process, all installed and "on hand" network assets are tracked for efficient inventory, procurement, repair and reuse.
• Network management includes configuration management, traffic management, fault management, security management, element management and performance management.
• Planning and engineering include all the steps (for example, budgeting, procurement and line and service testing) from network planning to network construction.
• Provisioning and activation include all systems and steps related to the process of implementing orders for new and existing customers.
• Workforce management encompasses all activities surrounding work assignment, coordination and tracking.

OTA (over the air)

Ability to download applications, services and configurations over a mobile or cellular network.

OTM (object transaction monitor)

An application program – similar to the mainframe Customer Information Control System (CICS) in function, but not in spirit – that represents a consistent model of an application for a modular and potentially highly distributed environment.

outsourcing

Outsourcing can potentially include a portfolio of product support and professional services that are bundled to provide the client with the IT infrastructure, enterprise applications and business process services to help ensure the successful mission of the organization. Minimally, outsourcing contracts will always include some management services. The ITO forecast includes all the IT management service segments, and the BPO forecast includes the entire process management segment.

Outsourcing is divided into the following domains, which represent type of outsourcing for ITO and the business process outsourced for BPO:

• ITO
• Data center outsourcing
• Desktop outsourcing
• Network outsourcing
• Enterprise application outsourcing
• BPO
• Supply management
• Operations
• Enterprises services
• Customer management

overlay

Installation of a networking component that is noninvasive to the wired infrastructure. Overlays generally employ tunneling techniques that connect end-point functionality to a central controller offering a variety of data, management and control plane functions.

OXE (optical exchange equipment)

In much of the literature addressing optical networking, terms such as optical cross-connect, optical switch and photonic switch have been used ambiguously. Many companies – including startups – confused the nomenclature during the "optical bubble" of 2000 when trying to improve their position and make their brands more recognizable in the optical networking arena. To avoid confusion and inaccuracy, Gartner uses OXE as a common term for any type of node equipment that handles traffic in the optical domain without relying on client-layer functionality.

The most common type of OXE in use today is the ROADM.

Standardization efforts relating to OXE, which have mainly focused on control plane features and associated signaling protocols, have been undertaken by various standardization bodies. They include:

• GMPLS from the IETF.
• ASTN/ASON from the ITU-T.
• User-Network Interface (UNI)/Network-to-Network Interface (NNI) from the Optical Internetworking Forum (OIF).

P

P2P (peer-to-peer)

Style of networking in which computers communicate directly with one another rather than routing traffic through managed central servers and networks.

packet-switched network

Data communications network in which data is divided into small segments known as packets. These are divided so that each packet forms part of a complete message that can be routed through a network of switches to its destination independently of all other packets forming the same message.

packet switching

A technique in which a message is broken into smaller units called packets, which may be individually addressed and routed through the network, possibly using several different routes. The receiving-end node ascertains that all packets are received and in the proper sequence before forwarding the complete message to the addressee.

PACS (personal access communication services)

American National Standards Institute common air interface standard for low-mobility digital cellular or fixed-wireless access to users operating in the 1,900MHz band. See also mobile WLL.

PAD (packet assembler/disassembler)

An interface device that buffers data sent to and from character mode devices, and assembles and disassembles the packets needed for X.25 operation.

PAL (Phase Alternate Line)

A color television broadcasting system developed in West Germany and the United Kingdom that uses 650 picture lines and a 50-hertz (Hz) field frequency. See NTSC (National Television System Committee) and SECAM (Sequential Couleur a Memoire).

PAM (pulse amplitude modulation)

The encoding of information in a signal based on the fluctuation of carrier waves. The amplitude of the pulse carrier is varied in accordance with successive samples of the modulating signal.

PAN (personal-area network)

Personal wireless devices, such as mobile phones, headsets and notebook PCs, connected together wirelessly via a networking protocol such as Bluetooth.

paper size

This describes the maximum paper size/dimension a device can print on. It includes the following:

• A3/A2 paper size – This category includes printers with the capability of printing paper between A3 (U.S. B) size and A2 (U.S. C) size.
• A3F paper size – This category includes printers with the capability of printing 297 mm/11.7-inch width continuous or fanfold form.
• A4 paper size – This category includes printers with the capability of printing A4 (U.S. A) paper.
• A4F paper size – This category includes printers with the capability of printing 210 mm/8.5-inch width continuous or fanfold form.
• A5 paper size – This category includes printers with the capability of printing A5 (U.S. A) paper.
• A6 paper size – This category includes printers with the capability of printing A6 (U.S. size 4 x 6) paper.

parallel processing

The solution of a single problem across more than one processor. Little parallel processing is done today outside of research laboratories, because it is difficult to decompose tasks into independent parts, and the compiler technology does not yet exist that will extensively parallelize applications code.

partitioning code

Applications can be broken into three logical parts – presentation, logic and data. These are areas in which the program can be separated to facilitate execution of each logical piece on a different machine. Each segment is known as a partition. For example, the thin-client Web model requires that interface presentation be handled by the browser, application logic by the Web server and other application servers, and data by a database server. Developers are responsible for determining where the separation occurs.

partner customer support software

This segment includes service-focused partner relationship management applications designed to improve an enterprise's ability to market, sell and service end customers through channel partners. Key components include entitlement management, order management, service-level management and material reverse logistics.

partner relationship management

These applications enable content distribution, trade promotion and partner lead management.

partner relationship management – partner sales

Sales-focused partner relationship management applications are designed to improve an enterprise's ability to market, sell and service end customers through channel partners. This category includes many of the traditional elements contained in a direct sales solution (opportunity management), but the solutions are configured for supporting a partner-driven environment. These applications consolidate data and transactions; set business rules and track activity; are typically used to manage channel partners, distributors, alliance or strategic partnerships; and often include a portal to enable bidirectional information flow and communications between partners.

PAS (personal access system)

Trademark of UTStarcom referring to its PHS-based WLL solution operating in the 1,900MHz band. See also mobile WLL.

Pattern-Based Strategy^TM

Gartner defines Pattern-Based Strategy^TM as the discipline that enables business leaders to seek, amplify, examine and exploit new business patterns. A business pattern is a set of recurring and/or related elements (business activities, events, weak or strong signals) that indicates a business opportunity or threat. A weak or strong signal is a piece of information, an activity, and/or an event that indicates an impending change that might have an impact on your business pattern.

The term "business pattern framework" refers to an organization's focus on and its investment in a balanced diversity of business activities (in the defined, creative, collective and exceptions categories) that enable it to lead and respond to weak and strong signals of change (opportunity or threat). The aim of business pattern recognition is to understand how elements (activities, events, objects and information) may form new patterns that represent an opportunity for innovation or a threat of disruption to business operations or strategy.

PBX (private branch exchange)

A telephone switching system on a customer's premises that allows telephones to interface with one or more public switched telephone network, or a private voice network when the user dials an access code.

PCM (patient care management)

A system that enrolls or assigns patients to interventions across the continuum of health and illness. It includes wellness exams and routine screenings, utilization reviews, event focus, short-term case management, and the management of long-term chronic conditions.

PCM (pulse code modulation)

A digital technique that involves sampling an analog signal at regular intervals and coding the measured amplitude into a series of binary values, which are transmitted by modulation of a pulsed, or intermittent, carrier. It is the standard technique in telecommunications transmission.

PCMCIA (Personal Computer Memory Card Industry Association)

PCO (physician contracting organization)

A legal entity representing multiple physicians, practices and clinics that contracts with other entities to provide healthcare services.

PCS (personal communications services)

Broad range of voice and data telecommunications services that enable people to communicate via two-way radio phones based exclusively on digital technologies such as CDMA and GSM. Characteristics of PCS include personal numbers assigned to individuals rather than devices, near-wireline-call-transmission quality, low-power and lightweight mobile devices, enhanced call completion, call billing and call management services. PCS networks operate at 1,800MHz in the U.K. and at 1900MHz in North America.

PCU (packet control unit)

Part of a GPRS BSS product, the PCU provides an interface between the SGSN and the radio network using frame relay technology.

PDA (personal digital assistant)

Data-centric handheld computer weighing less than 1 pound that is designed primarily for use with both hands. These devices use an open-market OS supported by third-party applications that can be added into the device by end users. They offer instant on/off capability and synchronization of files with a PC. A PDA may offer WAN support for voice, but these are data-first, voice-second devices. Examples include the RIM BlackBerry 8700c, HP iPAQ 65xx, Palm LifeDrive, Nokia 9300 and E61, and the Dell Axim X51v.

PDC (personal digital cellular)

Japanese, second-generation (2G/2.5G) digital cellular standard operating in the 800MHz and 1,500MHz frequency bands.

PDE (partial document encryption)

Encryption and delivery of only those pages requested or those that the requester is allowed to see. A certificate server only releases the required certificate when an authorized user makes a request. Using PDE, each page of the document is encrypted and associated with a unique security certificate, allowing for selective retrieval.

PDM (product data management)

PDM technologies and products have historically been positioned as the primary application backbone for managing and controlling the flow of design intent across the three major design stages: concept design, detail design and production. But in practice, PDM has served as a complementary application tower to computer-aided design (CAD) and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems by providing the main repository for production-approved engineering data (i.e., vaulting) and managing the changes to production – approved data (e.g., engineering change orders and configuration management). PDM is a key enabler for constructing a concurrent art-to-product environment (CAPE) for enterprisewide design and production. A well-constructed PDM enables all participants involved with the capture, communication and maintenance of design intent to freely share and disseminate all heterogeneous data related to the product. PDM evolved from the need to better manage paper, electronic documents, engineering change orders, and bills of materials during the product development process.

peak traffic (in Erlangs)

Calculated amount of channel use at peak time in Erlangs. See also Erlang.

penetration rate (mobile)

Number of (mobile) connections to a service divided by the population.

perfection

The complete elimination of muda so that all activities along a value stream create value.

PHO (physician hospital organization)

A legal entity representing joint contractual service arrangements between hospitals or integrated delivery systems and physicians.

performance management

Gartner defines "performance management" as the combination of methodologies and metrics that enables users to define, monitor and optimize outcomes necessary to achieve organizational goals and objectives.

photonic crystal displays

Reflective displays made of photonic crystalline materials that can be constructed and designed to manipulate the propagation of light (photons).

PHR (personal health record)

A concept for capturing, managing and sharing a consumer's healthcare profile. PHRs contain the following components: a consumer profile, a healthcare providers' section, a healthcare encounter section, a family history section, an emergency profile and public-key infrastructure (PKI) security.

PHS (personal HandyPhone system)

Japanese standard operating in the 1,900MHz band for low-mobility digital cellular or mobile WLL services. It typically supports handover between cells for users traveling at pedestrian or slow vehicular speeds, or it can be used to provide fixed wireless access to users. See also mobile WLL and PAS.

PIM (personal information manager)

Software that organizes and manages random information for fast retrieval on a daily basis. It provides a combination of features, including telephone list with automatic dialing, calendar and scheduler.

PIMS (production information management system)

Also known as a "process information management system," a PIMS is a client/server application for the acquisition, display, archiving and reporting of information from a wide variety of control, plant and business systems. A critical component in a manufacturing enterprise's application architecture for creating a common repository of plant information that can be effectively leveraged in enterprise and supply chain management applications.

picocell

Short-range cellular base station typically providing 100-meter to 250-meter range, used to boost in-building cellular coverage or for high-traffic locations.

pico projector

Very small projector modules that can be integrated into mobile devices such as handsets or laptops, or used to create highly portable projector accessories for mobile workers. Pico projectors can be implemented using several technologies, including liquid crystal on silicon (LCoS) imaging chips with LED illumination, MEMS DLP technology or laser diffraction.

platform-independent

Software that can run on a variety of hardware platforms or software architectures. Platform-independent software can be used in many different environments, requiring less planning and translation across an enterprise. For example, the Java programming language was designed to run on multiple types of hardware and multiple operating systems. If Java platform-independence becomes a reality, organizations with multiple types of computers will be able to write a specialized application once and have it be used by virtually everyone, rather than having to write, distribute and maintain multiple versions of the same program.

PLC (programmable logic controller)

The fundamental building block of factory and process automation. A specialty purpose computer, including input/output processing and serial communications, used for executing control programs, especially control logic and complex interlock sequences. PLCs can be embedded in machines or process equipment by OEMs, used stand-alone in local control environments or networked in system configurations.

PLM (product lifecycle management)

See Our product lifecycle management definition.

PMO (project management office)

See Our project management office definition.

Podcast

Audio (or audio and video) content specifically designed for synchronizing and playback on mobile audio players, such as Apple's iPod and MP3 playback-enabled mobile phones. Much of this content is highly topical, derived from radio or TV broadcasts, and it is often free. Podcasts are an example of "sticky" content: listeners are encouraged to subscribe to a podcast "channel" that typically is updated with new content daily or weekly. See also mobisode.

point to point

Describes a circuit that connects two points directly, where there are generally no intermediate processing nodes, although there could be switching facilities. See multipoint.

poke-yoke

A mistake-proofing device or procedure to prevent a defect during order intake or manufacturing.

POP (point of presence)

1. Since divestiture, the physical access location within a local access and transportation area (LATA) of a long-distance and/or interLATA common carrier.
2. The point to which the local telephone company terminates subscribers' circuits for long-distance, dial-up, or leased-line communications.
3. An Internet provider's node that allows subscribers to dial in using modems and voice lines.

portable wireless

Term used by the WiMAX Forum for semimobile wireless. The terms "nomadic," "portable" and "mobile" often vary in definition when used by vendors. See also fixed wireless and mobile wireless.

portal

A high-traffic Web site with a wide range of content, services and vendor links. It acts as a value-added middleman by selecting the content sources and assembling them in a simple-to-navigate and customize interface for presentation to the end user. Portals typically offer such services as Web searching, news, reference tools, access to online shopping venues, and communications capabilities including e-mail and chat rooms.

portal-enabling middleware

The toolset for a portal including the platform middleware and the integration and context management tools.

portals and user interaction tools

Organizations use both portal and other user interface products to provide access to, and interaction with, relevant information, applications, business processes and human resources for select targeted audiences. Especially where these are provided by portals, these can be delivered in a highly personalized manner. Horizontal portal products can be used to create portals facing a variety of external and internal audience types. A modern portal product is programmable and thus performs platform middleware functions. Increasingly, it also includes integration middleware functions, such as transformation and intelligent routing (that is, it can include some form of basic integration suite). Modern horizontal portal products often include at least limited support for Web content management and collaboration features and often come with an embedded search engine.

portfolio management

A shift from the practice of using a single integrated application for the support of business requirements to using a collection of applications, technologies and services to create a system that addresses the unique requirements of an organization and leverages best-of-breed opportunities.

porting

Modifying code that runs on one hardware platform or operating system so that it will properly execute on another hardware platform or operating system.

POS (point of sale)

POS systems use personal computers or specialized terminals in combination with cash registers, optical scanners or magnetic-stripe readers to capture and record data at the time of transaction. POS systems are usually online to a central computer for credit checking and inventory updating. Alternatively, they may be independent systems that store daily transactions until they can be transmitted to the central system for processing.

POS (point of service)

A type of health maintenance organization (HMO) plan that offers limited coverage for care received outside the HMO's network.

postpaid connection

A contract that includes airtime and is paid for at scheduled intervals (generally monthly).

PPM (project and portfolio management)

PPM applications address business processes with functions across multiple domains, which include:

• Planning and scheduling
• Tracking time and progress
• Program management
• Resource profiling and allocation
• Portfolio analysis and prioritization

The PPM market deals with a hierarchy of functions, roles and standards that range from the planning and execution of projects through their interaction with the enterprise's strategic goals.

PPM applications address such foundational project management areas as those described in the Project Management Institute's Project Management Body of Knowledge:

• Time management, resource management and cost management
• Scope management, procurement management and communications management
• Risk management and quality management

PPM applications also support an integrated view across the portfolio of project work as well as nonproject work. This integrated view is a key input to portfolio prioritization.

PPM applications can deal further with collections of projects assembled into large-scale programs, with functions to support the integrated planning of multiple, dependent projects, with a view of cross-project dependencies, program-level budgets, costs, schedules and resource plans. Flexible reporting of program data to various organizational levels is also supported.

A PPM application is often used by a business-unit level project/program management office (PMO) and/or an enterprise-level PMO to define, capture, maintain, analyze and report on data about initiatives' current state, costs and progress, as well as variances from plans and expectations. Organizational resource information can be grouped into taxonomies of roles, functions and skill sets, thus allowing for better tracking of resource assignment and utilization.

At a strategic level, portfolio management features support decision making that aligns initiative investments with business goals. Functions provide BI on project or service delivery and dashboard views of initiative alignment, status, resource capacity, service levels and more. Integration with other enterprise applications can leverage data from various segments of the business to help users manage their pipelines, report and forecast initiatives' progress, analyze portfolio alternatives, and prioritize.

predictive behavior analysis

The use of techniques such as data mining, data visualization, algorithm clustering, and neural networking to find patterns or trends in data. These patterns or trends are used to forecast future behavior based on current or past behavior. Uses of predictive behavior analysis include identifying customers likely to drop out or default; identifying products customers are likely to buy next; developing customer segments or groups; and product development.

prerelational DBMS

DBMS architectures were defined before relational theory became widely used. The prerelational DBMS generally is based on a hierarchical structure or a navigational (also known as network) structure.

print markets and management hardware

This segment includes copiers and printers.

• Copiers – Copiers perform image capture and transfer. This category includes analog (optical technology) and digital (digital scanning and printing technology) copiers.
• Printers – A printer is the peripheral output device of a computer system for producing computer-generated images on paper using various marking technologies. To be classified in this segment, the device needs to be capable of using plain or coated papers with a minimum size of International Organization for Standardization A4, U.S. size A (letter) or continuous forms with an 8-inch print width or greater, but it excludes products that support paper widths above A2 or U.S. size C (17 inches by 22 inches). The definition also excludes other classes of application-specific printers, such as point-of-sale printers, video printers and dedicated photo printers.

private key

The confidential half of the asymmetric key pair used in public-key cryptography. Unlike the "secret key" used in symmetric-key cryptography – a single key known by both the sender and the receiver – a private key is known only by the recipient. See public-key cryptography and secret-key cryptography.

PRM (partner relationship management)

The customer relationship management (CRM) element that extends sales, marketing, customer service and other enterprise business functions to partners to foster more-collaborative channel partner relationships.

problem management

The core function of a customer service and support (CSS) application used by call centers. It coordinates a multitier, multiowner service and support environment, enables pattern analysis, provides management reports, and facilitates requesting additional service and support resources by providing hard numbers on the service workload and its changing nature. Because PM tools can also track service-level agreements (SLAs), they are valuable for monitoring compliance.

process control

The regulation of variables that influence or control the conduct of a process so that a specified quality and quantity of product are obtained.

process management

Specific to the communications environment, the practice of telecom expense management (TEM) encompasses the business processes conducted by IT and finance departments to acquire the provision (and support) of corporate telecommunications assets. Put another way, TEM is the build-out of services, or the acquisition of third-party services, to manage the supply chain for telecommunications. Gartner has identified the component services of TEM as: sourcing, ordering and provisioning, inventory management, invoice and contract management, use management, dispute management, and business intelligence.

process manufacturing

Manufacturing that adds value by performing chemical reactions or physical actions to transform materials, or by extracting, mixing, separating or forming materials in batch or continuous production modes.

processing, batch

A method of computer operation in which a number of similar input items are accumulated and sorted for processing.

processing, line

The processing of transactions as they occur, with no preliminary editing or sorting before they enter the system.

process management

A management concept that describes the goal of increasing intraenterprise coordination of separate business functions. Business process re-engineering is a form of process management that focuses on replacing traditional functions (e.g., sales, marketing and service) with functionally integrated processes (e.g., customer relationship management). The growth in the demand for enterprise software reflects the need for increased integration and sharing of business information throughout an enterprise.

procurement

Procurement applications are used to help companies understand and improve the terms and conditions of trade and to comprehend enterprise spending. These applications assist in supplier selection, the analysis of supplier performance, and the establishment of the terms of trade to balance cost, quality and risk. Typical modules and applications include:

• E-procurement
• Strategic sourcing
• Procurement business process hubs
• Contract management
• Tactical sourcing (request for quotation)
• Spending analysis
• Buy-side catalog management
• Supply base management

product support services

Product support services refer to labor-based services for hardware or software, which can be performed by the manufacturer of the product or parties other than the vendor that created the product. These services can be provided by several types of vendors, typically including hardware OEMs, such as Dell, HP, EMC or IBM; and software publishers, such as Microsoft, Oracle or SAP. Formal channel partners of hardware and software vendors also provide support services.

Product support services are also delivered by additional independent service providers and third-party support providers. An independent service provider delivers a broad range of services for hardware and/or software products (such as consulting or support), and may have an alliance with the product manufacturer but not as a primary means to its service business. A third-party support provider primarily delivers break/fix technical support for hardware and/or software products and is not typically aligned with the product manufacturer but may have a relationship in certain specific exceptional cases.

production devices

Production devices encompass printers, stand-alone copiers and MFPs featuring a printing speed of more than 70 ppm in both monochrome and color. Production printers perform three specific types of printing:

• Transaction printing includes statements, bills, notices and other transactional documents that are printed in large volumes. With the growth of color print, transaction printing is merging into direct marketing with promotional and marketing pieces with the inclusion of personalized color items as well. "Transpromo" refers to transactional documents that have a promotional message or third-party advertising on them.
• Direct marketing, such as direct-mail packages.
• Publishing that includes short-run printing, print on demand (POD) booklets, catalogs, manuals and brochures, which are printed on an as-needed basis. POD is also being used to print books that are published in limited volumes.

project management

Project management is the application of knowledge, skills, tools and techniques to project activities to meet the project requirements...

• Read the full project management definition

project management office (PMO)

A project management office (PMO) is usually created to solve a specific problem: generally, the IT organization's inability to deliver IT projects on time, on budget and in scope. Project managers may "live" in the PMO, or in different IT units, such as in application development or in the business...

• Read the full project management office definition

proprietary software

Software that is owned by an organization or an individual, as opposed to "public-domain software," which is freely distributed. The explosion in the use of the Internet has expanded the reach of public-domain software since it is now much easier to transmit these programs. While many commercial software developers have developed software that has become the de facto standard (e.g., Microsoft's Windows programs), proprietary software that is based on proprietary protocols, or standards, can create obstacles for applications development and usage.

protocol

A set of procedures in telecommunications connections that the terminals or nodes use to send signals back and forth. Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) is the standard protocol for the Internet and related networks such as intranets and extranets. Local-area networks (LANs) often rely on a different protocol. Networks and systems cannot communicate unless they use the same protocol or make use of a gateway.

protocol conversion

The process of translating the protocol native to an end-user device (e.g., a terminal) into a different protocol (e.g., ASCII to BSC), allowing that end-user device to communicate with another device (e.g., a computer) with which it would otherwise be incompatible. Protocol conversion can be performed by a dedicated device (a protocol converter); by a software package loaded onto an existing system, such as a general-purpose computer, front-end processor, or private branch exchange (PBX) system; or by a value-added network, such as Telenet.

protocol stack

A defined protocol with options applicable for specific functions that can be implemented as a product. Also called a functional standard or functional profile.

protocol-transparent

Refers to a device's capability to perform its function independent of the communications protocol.

proxy agent

A network management agent that comes between an unmanaged device and a management system, allowing management by proxy, i.e., on behalf of the device.

proxy servers

Devices that process and filter all Internet Protocol (IP) packets that are directed to them and decide which protocols and services can be served out of their caches. Proxy servers tend to offer the greatest range of protocol and caching support since they cache Hypertext Transport Protocol (HTTP), Secure Hypertext Transport Protocol (HTTPS), File Transfer Protocol (FTP) and, in some cases, streaming content such as RealAudio and PointCast. Each workstation addresses the proxy server directly by setting specific parameters in each browser on each workstation.

PSA (professional services administration)

The integration of planning, resource management, project management and project accounting for service organizations.

PSK (phase-shift keying)

Phase modulation that uses discrete, present changes of phase.

PTR (peak transaction rate)

Total number of wireless transactions by all mobile devices during a specified period of time per access point.

PTT PoC (push-to-talk over cellular)

OMA-defined specification for the delivery of PTT walkie-talkie services over a packet radio network, typically GPRS.

public key

The public half of the asymmetric key pair used in public-key cryptography (see separate entry).

public-key cryptography

An encryption technique developed to overcome the limitations of secret-key cryptography (see separate entry). Public key (also called "asymmetric key") cryptography uses two mathematically related keys: A public key to encrypt messages, and a private key to decrypt them. In a public-key system, you communicate privately by encrypting your message using the public key of your intended recipient. Although everyone else knows the recipient's public key, it is useless for decrypting a message encrypted with it. Only the corresponding private key, known only to the recipient, can decrypt the message.

publish and subscribe

A communication pattern in which information sources "publish" (i.e., send) information to a somewhat intelligent middleware infrastructure, and information consumers "subscribe" by specifying what kind of information they want to receive from the infrastructure. The middleware must be able to physically transport messages from one or more publishers to one or more subscribers. It also must be smart enough to find the proper destinations by matching each message to subscription criteria. This model naturally supports one-to-many or many-to-many communication – in contrast to either message passing or message queuing, both of which mostly (but not entirely) aim at one-to-one communication.

publish/subscribe architecture

Processes that acquire or receive messages from source applications and publish these messages on a systemwide bulletin board or, in alternative terminology, put them on a software bus where all other processes can "see" them. Application processes generally indicate which messages they are interested in by supplying one or more rules to the integration broker (IB). Also described as a software bus architecture.

pull

All activities being undertaken within the lean enterprise according to and at the rate of the actual demand requirements of the end consumer.

pull printing

Also called "follow-me printing," pull printing allows for a print job to be sent to a pull-printing server, which delivers the print job to the printer. This frees up the user's computer for other tasks and reduces network traffic. Word-processing documents and even Web pages (referred to as Web pull printing) can be pull-printed without having the file opened on the user's computer. The user sends the document's location to the pull-printing server for processing.

pulse carrier

A series of identical pulses intended for modulation.

push technology

Software that automates the delivery of information to users. In contrast, the Web is a "pull" environment that requires a user to seek information.

In a "push" environment, information is sent to a person proactively, through a Web browser, e-mail, or even voice mail or a pager. In business, push technology can be used for the conveyance of time-sensitive information, like changes in commodity pricing or the introduction of promotional programs to a sales force. Enterprises can employ push technology to communicate externally with their clients or internally with their employees over a network.

PWM (pulse width modulation)

A method of encoding information based on variations of the duration of carrier pulses. Also called pulse duration modulation (PDM).

PX (private exchange)

An internal telephone exchange serving a single organization and having no connection with a public exchange. Also private automatic exchange (PAX). Other types of private exchange include:

1. Private automatic branch exchange (PABX): A private automatic telephone exchange that provides for the transmission of calls internally and to and from the public telephone network. Also private branch exchange (PBX).
2. Private automatic telex exchange (PATX): Provides telex service within and without an enterprise (largely obsolete).
3. Private manual branch exchange (PMBX): Private, manually operated telephone exchange that provides private telephone service to an organization and allows calls to be transmitted to or from the public telephone network.
4. Private digital exchange (PDX): Private exchange employing digital transmission techniques.