Discussion Points 1. Do some Internet research on Chevron’s use of seismic imaging technology. Briefly explain how it works and how it has helped Chevron discover new oil and gas reservoirs.  C6-7 2. Do some Internet research on security vulnerabilities associated with SCADA and digital industrial control systems. Summarize the major security concerns associated with these systems and steps than can be taken to enhance their security. 3. Discuss the pros and cons of moving enterprise-wide applications that have traditionally been supported on premises to the cloud. 4. Do some Internet research on identify management and single sign on systems. Briefly explain how these work and why they are important in business intranets and extranets. 5. Why is it increasing most important for a CIO or IT executive who oversees geographically distributed enterprise networks to be business literate? Sources [CHEV12] Chevron.com “Seismic Imaging.” Retrieved online: at http://www.chevron.com/deliveringenegy/oil/seismicimaging. [GALL12] Gallant, J. ”Chevron’s CIO Talks Transformation and Why IT Leaders Should Smile.” April 12, 2012. Retrieved online at: http://www.cio.com/article/print/704095. [SCRI11] Scribd.com. “Chevron Corporation CRUSH Report.” August 17, 2011. Retrieved online at http://www.scribd.com/doc/62481977/ChevronCRUSH-Report-09A1. [STAT12] Statistic Brain. “Chevron Company Statistics.” February 12, 2102. Retrieved online at: http://www.statisticbrain.com/chevron-companystatistics/.

1. Chevron’s use of seismic imaging technology has been crucial in their exploration and discovery of new oil and gas reservoirs. Seismic imaging works by using sound waves to create images of underground rock formations. This process begins with the use of a seismic source, typically a seismic vibrator truck or dynamite, to create vibrations that are sent into the ground. These vibrations then travel through the layers of rocks and are reflected back to the surface. Specialized equipment called geophones are used to record these reflections, which are then processed and analyzed to create detailed images of the subsurface.

Seismic imaging has greatly helped Chevron in identifying potential oil and gas reservoirs by providing valuable information about the structure and properties of the underground formations. By analyzing the seismic images, geologists can determine the presence and characteristics of hydrocarbon-bearing formations, helping Chevron decide where to drill and allocate resources. The technology allows for a better understanding of the subsurface geology, improving the accuracy of exploration and reducing the risk of costly dry wells.

2. SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) and digital industrial control systems are vulnerable to various security threats. These systems are used to monitor and control critical infrastructure such as power plants, water treatment facilities, and manufacturing processes. The major security concerns associated with SCADA and digital industrial control systems include:

a) Cyberattacks: These systems can be targeted by hackers who can gain unauthorized access to the network and manipulate or disrupt the control processes. This can lead to disruptive or destructive consequences, such as sabotage or equipment failure.

b) Vulnerabilities in legacy systems: Many SCADA systems were designed before cybersecurity was a major concern, making them susceptible to known vulnerabilities. These vulnerabilities can be exploited by attackers to gain control over the system.

c) Lack of encryption: SCADA systems often lack proper encryption protocols, making it easier for attackers to intercept and modify data transmitted between different components of the system.

Steps that can be taken to enhance the security of SCADA and digital industrial control systems include:

a) Implementing robust authentication mechanisms: Strong passwords, two-factor authentication, and access control policies can help prevent unauthorized access to the system.

b) Regularly updating and patching systems: Keeping the systems up to date with the latest security patches can address known vulnerabilities and protect against new threats.

c) Network segmentation and isolation: Separating the SCADA network from the corporate network and isolating critical components can limit the impact of a potential breach and prevent lateral movement by attackers.

3. Moving enterprise-wide applications from on-premises to the cloud has its pros and cons. Some of the advantages include:

a) Cost savings: Moving to the cloud eliminates the need for upfront infrastructure investments and reduces maintenance costs. The cloud provider is responsible for managing and maintaining the infrastructure, allowing organizations to focus on their core business.

b) Scalability and flexibility: Cloud services offer the ability to scale resources on-demand, allowing organizations to easily adapt to changing requirements without investing in additional infrastructure.

c) Accessibility: Cloud-based applications can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection, enabling remote work and collaboration.

However, there are also potential disadvantages to consider:

a) Security concerns: Storing sensitive data in the cloud raises concerns about data privacy and security. Organizations must ensure that adequate security measures are in place to protect their data.

b) Dependency on the service provider: Organizations relying on cloud services are dependent on the availability and reliability of the provider. Service disruptions or outages can have significant impacts on business operations.

c) Limited control: Moving to the cloud means relinquishing control over the infrastructure and placing trust in the provider. Organizations may have limited visibility and control over their data and systems.

Overall, the decision to move enterprise-wide applications to the cloud requires careful consideration of the specific needs and risks of the organization. A thorough analysis of the potential benefits and drawbacks should be conducted before making the transition.

4. Identity management and single sign-on systems play a crucial role in business intranets and extranets by simplifying user authentication and access control. Identity management systems are used to manage and control user identities, access rights, and permissions across various systems and applications. Single sign-on (SSO) allows users to authenticate once and gain access to multiple applications and systems without the need for repeated logins.

Identity management systems work by centralizing user identity information, such as login credentials and user profiles, in a central directory or database. When a user tries to access a system or application, the identity management system authenticates the user based on the stored credentials. Once authenticated, the user is granted access to the requested resources based on their predefined access rights and permissions.

These systems are important in intranets and extranets as they enhance security and simplify user access. By centralizing user identities and access control, organizations can ensure that only authorized users have access to sensitive information and resources. SSO further improves user experience and productivity by reducing the need for multiple logins and passwords.

5. It is increasingly important for a CIO or IT executive overseeing geographically distributed enterprise networks to be business literate because of the growing intersection between technology and business strategy. As enterprise networks become more complex and integrated, IT leaders need to understand the business goals, objectives, and processes to align technology initiatives with the organization’s overall strategy.

Being business literate allows CIOs and IT executives to effectively communicate with other business leaders and stakeholders, making sure that technology investments align with the needs and priorities of the organization. It enables them to identify opportunities for technology-driven innovation, improve operational efficiency, and drive digital transformation initiatives.

Furthermore, a business-literate IT executive is better equipped to assess the risks and rewards of technology initiatives, making informed decisions that contribute to the organization’s success. They can evaluate the financial implications of technology investments, analyze market trends, and make strategic recommendations to support the organization’s growth and competitive advantage.

In summary, a CIO or IT executive overseeing geographically distributed enterprise networks needs to possess a strong understanding of both technology and business in order to effectively lead and drive digital initiatives that align with the organization’s strategic objectives.