Hierarchy

Hierarchy in computers is necessary in order for us to have easier access to what we want and also for the programs to find files. It could be said that there are 2 primary types of hierarchy in the general computing world; Mac and PC organisation. This is primarily to do with how the data is arranged on first glance of the operating system. Initially windows has shortcuts on the desktop with folders existing in a file system accessed by explorer, however it appears to be a trend in Mac OS that data and shortcuts and everything is stored whereby there appears to be a greater sense of order on the PC system. In viewing a set of files in either Finder (mac) or explorer (PC) the sense of order is more obvious but represented in 2 different manners. Finder tends to display a greater horizontal hierarchy where decisions are displayed across the window. On the other hand explorer shows folders in a vertical hierarchy which expand downwards and gives a better sense of where a file sits in the system; how deep into the rabbit hole it lies!

Our group’s hierarchy is similar to a planer or parallel approach with one defined organisational head. We seem to work on our own disciplines and make key decisions whilst also communicating with other group members on what they need done in order to progress their work. There is also a figurehead of the group who helps to co-ordinate what needs to be done and how these jobs are divided up. Unfortunately there are sometimes cases when the leader has to chase up unfinished work. On top of the leader, there is our tutor who makes sure that the leader and everyone else is doing their part and ensuring effective communication is taking place. Generally it feels that our group is function reasonably well as we are making adequate progress, albeit a little bogged in some places due to a limited understanding of what is required or how to complete the task.