MIS 2201 - Information Technology in Business

Section 002 • Fall 2025

University of Minnesota Duluth

Instructor Information

Course instructor details and contact information
  • Class Time: Tuesday/Thursday, 3:30 PM - 4:45 PM
  • Location: LSBE 118
  • Semester: Fall 2025
  • Credits: 3
Office Hours
  • Tuesday 5:00 - 6:00 PM
  • Thursday 1:00 - 2:00 PM
  • Wednesday 4:30 - 5:30 PM (Over ZOOM, first come first served basis) - https://umn.zoom.us/j/98612435785
  • Or by appointment

Remember: Office hours are for everyone - not just struggling students. Come to get ahead, ask questions, or just chat about course material. No appointment needed during scheduled times.

How to Contact Me

Communication methods in order of preference

As your instructor, I prioritize effective and timely communication. Please use the following methods in order of preference:

1. In-Person Communication (Most Reliable & Encouraged)

Talk to me directly before or after class, or during my office hours. This is the most effective way to discuss course material, get clarification, or address any concerns.

2. Email (For Official Class Matters)

  • Must be sent from your official UMD email account
  • Include class name and issue description in subject line (e.g., "MIS 2201 Sec 002 - Question about Assignment 2")
  • Response within 48 hours during business hours (M-F, 9 AM-5 PM)
  • Important: I will not reply to emails regarding assignment extensions if sent after the due date
  • DON'T email the instructor asking for assistance until you've read all the instructions and attempted the assignment

3. Google Chat (Very Short Questions Only)

Use only for brief, urgent questions such as "Will class be canceled due to weather?" or "Is class moved to Zoom today?" This is not appropriate for assignment help or detailed discussions.

My Commitment: I commit to responding within 48 hours during business days. For urgent matters, please use Google Chat. If there is a strong indication that the student has made no effort to be courteous or to comply with these rules of etiquette, the instructor may respond saying "READ THE INSTRUCTIONS" or MAY NOT RESPOND

Course Description

Overview and learning objectives

This course offers a comprehensive exploration of Information Technology's transformative role in modern business environments. You'll develop both theoretical understanding and practical skills essential for today's digital workplace.

IT Innovation & Strategy

Explore how technology drives business innovation, competitive advantage, and organizational transformation.

Business Impact Analysis

Critically examine IT's effects on business operations, society, and decision-making processes.

Hands-On Technical Skills

Gain practical experience with Microsoft Office Suite, databases, web development, and business analytics tools.

Digital Adaptability

Develop the agility to quickly learn and adapt to emerging technologies in our rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Three-Part Course Structure

The semester is divided into three distinct thematic parts. Each part builds on the last, includes parallel hands-on SIMnet training, and ends with a major assessment.

Part 1: Foundational Concepts & Business Productivity

This initial phase establishes the fundamentals of Management Information Systems and essential business software skills. It provides the conceptual and practical groundwork for the rest of the course. This part ends with Midterm 1.

Core Topics:
  • Introduction to MIS
  • Computer Hardware & Software
  • Introduction to AI Tools (for project setup)
  • The Web, Internet, and Basic HTML
  • Digital Communications
Parallel SIMnet Training:
  • OS (Windows & Mac) and File Management
  • Microsoft Word
  • Microsoft PowerPoint

Part 2: Application Development & Project Initiation

This part transitions from theory to practice, focusing on the practical aspects of creating web applications. This section marks the beginning of the main semester project. This part ends with Midterm 2.

Core Topics:
  • Introduction to HTML/CSS
  • Application Development Principles
  • Web Development
  • Advanced & Emerging AI Technologies
  • Social Media for Business
Major Project Component:

Students will begin and complete Phase 1 of the Semester Project, focusing on planning and building a basic website structure.

Part 3: Data Analysis, Management & Security

The final part of the course shifts to data-centric technologies that drive modern business decisions. It also covers the critical aspects of securing digital assets. This part ends with the final project submission and the final exam period.

Core Topics:
  • Advanced Spreadsheets
  • Database Management
  • Business Analytics
  • Safe Computing & Digital Security
Parallel SIMnet Training:
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Access

Course Organization & Support

Canvas Organization: Course materials are organized in weekly modules with consistent naming conventions. Each week includes: Learning Objectives, Required Readings, Lecture Materials, Assignments, and Additional Resources.

Exam Preparation: Exam study guides will be provided on Canvas at least one week ahead of each exam. Detailed assignment instructions and grading expectations will be clearly outlined for all coursework.

Technology Setup: Complete all software installations by Week 1. Test Canvas access, Microsoft Office, and Respondus Lockdown Browser before first assignment. Support available during office hours.

SIMnet Integration: SIMnet provides hands-on practice with Microsoft Office applications that directly supports our course learning objectives. These assignments run parallel to course content - you'll practice OS and productivity software (Windows, Word, PowerPoint) during Part 1 of the course, then advance to data analysis tools (Excel, Access) during Part 3. This practical experience reinforces the business applications concepts covered in lectures.

Real-World Applications: All concepts are connected to real-world business scenarios. We'll explore current technologies (AI, cloud computing) and their impact on modern business operations.

Extra Credit Opportunities: 8-10 extra credit assignments available throughout the semester. These can help boost your grade and provide additional learning opportunities. Details posted on Canvas.

Course Improvement: I welcome feedback throughout the semester. Mid-semester surveys help identify early issues. Your input directly influences course improvements and future semesters.

Weekly Expectations: Read assigned materials before class, participate in discussions, complete assignments on time, attend office hours when needed, and provide constructive feedback.

Learning Outcomes

What you will be able to do upon completion

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

Course Learner Outcomes (What am I learning?) Mapping to Program Learning Goals
Discuss how IT has transformed different aspects of business and life in general, the importance of digital literacy and its disruptive nature and the various IT-related professions that the business graduate can leverage. 1,3,4,5
Define Moore's Law, grasp its implications for computing hardware, maintain a working personal computer and use basic operating system functions to search for files and information on the computer. 4,5
Distinguish between different categories of software, different types of applications in the marketplace, recognize the relationship of databases to other software and how software is developed and utilized, and recognize how software have evolved through the years. 5
Describe basic roles of telecommunication components and how they work to realize the goals of the Internet and utilize basic Internet resources to search for information and interact online. 1,5
Recognize the dangers of security breaches, the many threats to information security, the various safeguards available and the responsibility of individuals and organizations in practicing safe computing and ensuring security and privacy. 4,5
Demonstrate comfort level with using a word processor, presentation software and managing business data in a simple database, working with browsers, HTML editors and communication tools. 1,2,5
Solve quantitative problems using a spreadsheet at the intermediate level by employing formulas, functions and other spreadsheet tools. 2,5
Describe the value of data-driven, fact-based decision making for organizations and the role of analytic tools for business. 1,2,5
Recognize the importance of system development processes in order to design and build an effective IS and factors that contribute to the failure and success of systems development. 1,3,5
Design and build a simple website or application using HTML, CSS and Javascript in order to lay a foundation for coding literacy and an appreciation of coding principles and how they are used to automate routine tasks and enhance productivity. 1,2
Discuss and debate ethical issues relating to the use of information systems surrounding data privacy, intrusive advertising, personal profiling and their impact on society. 1,3,4,5

BBA Program Level Learning Goals

  • Goal 1: Communicate ideas effectively in written and oral form.
  • Goal 2: Acquire quantitative analysis skills that can be used in managerial decision-making.
  • Goal 3: Be able to work effectively in a team.
  • Goal 4: Demonstrate appreciation of ethical and global issues in managerial decision-making.
  • Goal 5: Demonstrate competency in the core areas of business.

Required Materials

Textbook and essential course materials

Textbook

Connect Master Online Access for Management Information Systems

Your student account will be charged directly because you are enrolled in this course through the Integrated Access Card (IAC) program.

Enhanced Website Project Support

The website project is broken into manageable phases throughout the semester. Comprehensive video tutorials and written instructions are provided. Alternative project options available for different skill levels to ensure all students can succeed while being appropriately challenged.

Technology Requirements

Essential technology and equipment for course success

This is a technology course. A major part of this course is managing and getting very familiar with your laptop and using them in class. Your learning experience will be greatly enhanced if you can follow the instructor using your laptop as he/she demonstrates examples.

Windows or Mac?

Both the Windows 11 or Mac OS machines will work for this course. Other devices such as Chromebooks and tablets are not designed for the assignments in this course. Following the LSBE laptop requirement policy, a minimum set of specifications for the laptop is described on this policy document.

WIFI Connection on Campus

While on campus DO NOT USE THE UMD-GUEST WIRELESS CONNECTION. USE THE EDUROAM connection. Guest wireless connections do not allow file uploads and downloads and is generally much slower than the standard EDUROAM (secured) connection.

Microsoft and Apple Technologies

The business world is still dominated by Microsoft technologies. However, Apple technologies are slowly catching up and with the availability of cloud-based platforms such as Google, students are encouraged to be familiar with technology concepts that are applicable on both platforms. If you are using Microsoft Windows laptop, the new Windows 11 Pro environment is the preferred platform for this course.

LSBE Loaner Laptops

If for any reason your laptop is not operational or is being repaired, LSBE allows students to check out laptops for a limited period. These loaners are available from the LSBE Technology Program at LSBE 111U.

Use of online cloud storage (OneDrive and iCloud)

Both Windows and Mac operating systems strongly push their respective cloud storage offerings that requires users to pay monthly subscriptions. To avoid confusion, save all your work on the local laptop drive instead of the cloud when choosing the folder to save the file.

Canvas

Canvas is the primary channel for learning and communication between students and the instructor for all class materials and assignments. ALWAYS REFER TO CANVAS FIRST FOR OFFICIAL INSTRUCTIONS AND DEADLINES FOR ASSIGNMENTS AND QUIZZES.

Course Homepage: http://canvas.umn.edu

Alternatively (long way) access the site through UMN Portal http://myu.umn.edu

Laptop Requirements

Windows 11 or Mac OS machines will work for this course. Chromebooks and tablets are not designed for the assignments in this course.

View LSBE Requirements

Campus WiFi

While on campus, use the EDUROAM connection, not UMD-GUEST wireless connection for better performance and security.

Microsoft Office 365

Required installation on your laptop. Available free to UMD students through the university license.

Respondus Lockdown Browser

Required for secure online exams and quizzes. Must be installed before exam dates.

Grading Policy

Assessment breakdown and grading scale

Grade Components and Weights (1000 points total)

Component Points Weight
Exams 400 40%
  Midterm Exam 1 150 15%
  Midterm Exam 2 150 15%
  Final Exam 100 10%
Project 150 15%
  Phase 1 100 10%
  Phase 2 50 5%
Quizzes 200 20%
  In-Class Quizzes (9 best of 10 x 15 pts) 135 13.5%
  Project Screenshot Quizzes (4 x 10 pts) 40 4%
  Online At-Home Quizzes (2 x 12.5 pts) 25 2.5%
Connect Reading Assignments 50 5%
  Module 1, 6, 8, 13, 19, 20, 21 Reading Assignments (7 x 3 pts) 21 2.1%
  Module 7, 10, 16, 22, 28 Reading Assignments (5 x 3 pts) 15 1.5%
  Module 2, 3, 4, 5, 12 Reading Assignments (5 x 2.8 pts) 14 1.4%
SIMnet Homework 200 20%
  SIMnet: Windows 11 & File Management 30 3%
  SIMnet: Word 35 3.5%
  SIMnet: PowerPoint 35 3.5%
  SIMnet: Excel (Part 1) 35 3.5%
  SIMnet: Excel (Part 2) 35 3.5%
  SIMnet: Access 30 3%
Total 1000 100%

Grading Scale

A
93-100%
Excellent
A-
90-92.9%
Very Good
B+
87-89.9%
Good Plus
B
83-86.9%
Good
B-
80-82.9%
Good Minus
C+
77-79.9%
Satisfactory Plus
C
73-76.9%
Satisfactory
C-
70-72.9%
Below Average
D+
67-69.9%
Poor Plus
D
60-66.9%
Poor
F
Below 60%
Failing

Note: Final grades are calculated based on your total points earned (out of 1000) and converted to the percentage scale above. No rounding is applied to final grades.

SIMnet Assignment Details

Comprehensive information about SIMnet homework structure and requirements

SIMnet Module Structure

Each SIMnet module consists of reading chapters followed by a module exam. You must complete the reading chapters before attempting the module exam.

Reading Chapters
  • Complete all assigned reading chapters for each module
  • Unlimited attempts - practice as much as you want
  • Must be completed before taking the module exam
  • Use these to prepare and practice for the exam
Module Exams
  • Only 2 attempts per module exam
  • 30-minute time limit per attempt
  • Different questions on second attempt
  • Complete reading chapters first

SIMnet Extra Credit Projects

There are 4 extra credit projects available that apply only to SIMnet assignments. These projects can help boost your SIMnet homework grades.

How to Earn Extra Credit:
  1. Complete the project before the due date - no last-minute submissions
  2. Schedule a meeting during office hours to discuss your project
  3. Have a short discussion about your project work and learning
  4. Extra credit will be applied based on our discussion and your demonstrated understanding

Important: Please don't wait until the last minute to complete extra credit projects. You must finish them before the due date and meet with me during office hours for the discussion.

SIMnet Success Tips

  • Start Early: Don't wait until the due date to begin your SIMnet assignments
  • Use Reading Chapters: Take advantage of unlimited attempts on reading chapters to practice
  • Prepare for Exams: Complete all reading chapters before attempting the module exam
  • Plan Your Attempts: Remember you only have 2 attempts at each module exam
  • Extra Credit Opportunity: Consider the extra credit projects to boost your SIMnet grades
  • Get Help When Needed: Don't hesitate to ask questions during class or seek assistance when needed

Course Schedule

Weekly topics and important dates
Week Day Date Topic Readings Assignments Due
1 Tuesday Aug 26 Introduction & Course Overview Module 1: Investigating MIS
Thursday Aug 28 Technology Setup & The Importance of MIS Module 1: Investigating MIS In-Class Quiz 1
2 Tuesday Sep 2 Computer Hardware & Software Fundamentals Module 19: Computer Hardware
Thursday Sep 4 Fundamentals of Computing Hardware & Operating Systems Module 19: Computer Hardware; Module 20: Computer Software and Buying a Computer In-Class Quiz 2
3 Tuesday Sep 9 Business Computer Applications & Word Processing Module 13: Business Computer Applications
Thursday Sep 11 Business Computer Applications & Word Processing Module 13: Business Computer Applications In-Class Quiz 3
4 Tuesday Sep 16 The Web, Internet, and Basic HTML Module 6: Computer Networks & Internet SIMNET Windows 11 & File Management
Thursday Sep 18 Digital Communications Module 6: Computer Networks & Internet In-Class Quiz 4
5 Tuesday Sep 23 Introduction to Artificial Intelligence Module 21: Artificial Intelligence Project Progress Quiz 1; SIMNET Word
Thursday Sep 25 Social Media & Digital Communications Module 8: Social Media In-Class Quiz 5
6 Tuesday Sep 30 Review Exam 1 Modules 1, 6, 8, 13, 19, 20, 21 Online Quiz 1 Due Midnight; SIMNET PowerPoint
Thursday Oct 2 Midterm Exam 1 Midterm Exam 1; Modules 1, 6, 8, 13, 19, 20, 21 reading assignments
7 Tuesday Oct 7 Project Management & Semester Project Module 16: Project Management Project Progress Quiz 2
Thursday Oct 9 HTML/CSS Application Development Module 7: Business Management Systems (partial); Module 10: Ecommerce In-Class Quiz 6
8 Tuesday Oct 14 Building Websites Using Templates Module 10: Ecommerce Project Progress Quiz 3
Thursday Oct 16 Work on Semester Project In-Class Quiz 7
9 Tuesday Oct 21 Work on Semester Project Project Progress Quiz 4
Thursday Oct 23 No Class (Fall Break)
10 Tuesday Oct 28 Advanced AI Topics & Emerging Technologies Module 28: Emerging Technologies Project Phase 1 Due
Thursday Oct 30 Blockchains and Cryptocurrencies Module 22: Blockchain and Cryptocurrency In-Class Quiz 8
11 Tuesday Nov 4 Exam 2 Review Modules 7, 10, 16, 22, 28 Online Quiz 2 Due Midnight
Thursday Nov 6 Midterm Exam 2 Midterm Exam 2; Modules 7, 10, 16, 22, 28 reading assignments
12 Tuesday Nov 11 Introduction to Spreadsheets & Excel Fundamentals Module 4: Spreadsheets Project Phase 2 Due
Thursday Nov 13 Intermediate Spreadsheets & Data Analysis Module 4: Spreadsheets In-Class Quiz 9
13 Tuesday Nov 18 Database Management Module 2: Databases SIMNET Excel part 1
Thursday Nov 20 Data Analytics & Business Intelligence Module 3: Data Analytics In-Class Quiz 10
14 Tuesday Nov 25 Safe Computing & Digital Security Module 5: Cybersecurity SIMNET Excel part 2
Thursday Nov 27 No Class (Thanksgiving)
15 Tuesday Dec 2 Safe Computing & Digital and Information Security Module 12: Methods of Securing Information SIMNET Access
Thursday Dec 4 Final Exam Review Modules 2, 3, 4, 5, 12 Modules 2, 3, 4, 5, 12 reading assignments
Finals TBD Dec 8-12 Final Exam (Date/Time TBD) Final Exam

Assignments and Due Dates

Complete chronological list of all graded assignments
Assignment Due Date & Time Points
In-Class Quiz 1 Aug 28 - During Class 15
In-Class Quiz 2 Sep 4 - During Class 15
SIMnet: Windows 11 & File Management Sep 16 - 1:00 PM 30
In-Class Quiz 3 Sep 11 - During Class 15
SIMnet: Word Sep 23 - 1:00 PM 35
In-Class Quiz 4 Sep 18 - During Class 15
Project Progress Quiz 1 Sep 23 - 11:59 PM 10
SIMnet: PowerPoint Sep 30 - 1:00 PM 35
In-Class Quiz 5 Sep 25 - During Class 15
Online Quiz 1 Sep 30 - 11:59 PM 12.5
Modules 1, 6, 8, 13, 19, 20, 21 Reading Oct 2 - 1:00 PM 21
Midterm Exam 1 Oct 2 - During Class 150
Project Progress Quiz 2 Oct 7 - 11:59 PM 10
In-Class Quiz 6 Oct 9 - During Class 15
Project Progress Quiz 3 Oct 14 - 11:59 PM 10
In-Class Quiz 7 Oct 16 - During Class 15
Project Progress Quiz 4 Oct 21 - 11:59 PM 10
Project Phase 1 Oct 28 - 11:59 PM 100
In-Class Quiz 8 Oct 30 - During Class 15
Online Quiz 2 Nov 4 - 11:59 PM 12.5
Modules 7, 10, 16, 22, 28 Reading Nov 6 - 1:00 PM 15
Midterm Exam 2 Nov 6 - During Class 150
Project Phase 2 Nov 11 - 11:59 PM 50
In-Class Quiz 9 Nov 13 - During Class 15
SIMnet: Excel (Part 1) Nov 18 - 1:00 PM 35
In-Class Quiz 10 Nov 20 - During Class 15
SIMnet: Excel (Part 2) Nov 25 - 1:00 PM 35
SIMnet: Access Dec 2 - 1:00 PM 30
Modules 2, 3, 4, 5, 12 Reading Dec 4 - 1:00 PM 14
Final Exam Dec 8-12 - During Class 100

Policies

Course and university policies

Student Responsibilities

  • Read assigned chapters and review slides before class
  • Participate actively in class discussions and forums
  • Complete all assignments on time
  • Keep up with course announcements on Canvas
  • Address grade concerns professionally via email or office hours, not during class time

Late Work Policy

SIMnet Assignments: Assignments are due on the specified due date.

All Other Assignments: No late work accepted - assignments receive zero points after the due date unless an exception is granted in advance for documented emergencies or accommodations.

Academic Integrity

I believe in learning from mistakes. First violations result in educational intervention. Repeated violations follow university policy. When in doubt, ask me about proper citation and collaboration.

Students caught copying other students' assignments or engaging in repeated academic dishonesty will be subject to university disciplinary procedures.

Excused Absences and Makeup Work

There will be no make-up assignments or exams unless extreme circumstances happen (e.g., death in the family) or student notifies excused absence in timely manner. Since all assignments are made available from the beginning of the semester, chances for getting a make-up for assignments are slim. All make-up exams must be scheduled and completed within one week after return to class or a grade of "F" will be assigned.

The University of Minnesota Duluth recognizes that students may need to miss class due to extenuating circumstances. The following is a summary of the official UMD Excused Absences and Makeup Work Policy.

Critical Requirements for Students

  • Advance Notification Required: You MUST notify me in advance when possible, or as soon as reasonably possible for urgent circumstances
  • Student Responsibility: You are responsible for initiating the request for makeup work - I will not automatically offer it
  • Verification Policy: I will request appropriate verification for all absences when reasonable and permitted by university policy
  • Timely Communication: Late notification may result in denial of makeup opportunities
Excused Circumstances Include:
Health & Medical
  • Illness (physical or mental) or acute injury
  • Disability accommodations
  • Caring for dependent or immediate family member
Legal & Civic
  • Jury duty, court appearances, subpoenas
  • Military service and ROTC requirements
  • Visa/immigration appointments
Academic & Personal
  • NCAA intercollegiate athletic events
  • Bereavement and related travel
How to Request Makeup Work:
  1. Notify me immediately via email (preferred) or in person
  2. Include details: Your name, course section, specific dates affected, and reason for absence
  3. Provide verification when requested and appropriate
  4. Work with me to arrange equitable makeup opportunities

Complete Policy: For full details, appeals process, and additional information, please review the complete policy at https://evcaa.d.umn.edu/excused-absences

Students with Disabilities

It is the policy and practice of the University of Minnesota Duluth to create inclusive learning environments for all students, including students with disabilities. If there are aspects of this course that result in barriers to your inclusion or ability to meet course requirements, please notify the instructor as soon as possible. Contact the Office of Disability Resources at 218-726-6130 for accommodations.

Care for Mental Health

In these difficult times, it is important for us to care for our mental health. So if you feel any anxiety or pressure of any sort, feel free to reach out and tell me or reach out to Counseling services available at UMD Health Services or call 218-726-7913 to schedule a virtual visit. In case of an emergency, please contact The Birch Tree Center's Crisis line at 218-623-1800 or go to the emergency room/urgent care at either St. Luke's Hospital or St. Mary's Hospital. If an ambulance is needed, call 911. If the emergency is non-life-threatening and you do not have a means of transportation, call Campus Police at 218-726-7000). If you have needs that Counseling Services does not treat, they have a case manager who helps connect students to referrals as well as navigating issues with insurance. You can learn more about the broad range of confidential mental health services available on campus at UMD Health Services.

Equity and Diversity

The University provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs and facilities, without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.

Academic Resources for Students

For additional descriptions about each of these items, please visit the syllabus statements webpage.

Disability Resources

Students with Disabilities

UMD Disability Resources, 258 Kirby Students Center, umddr@d.umn.edu, (218) 726-6130

Academic Support

Tutoring Center

Class Tutoring Schedules

Library Services

Research Help

Students can chat with a librarian 24/7, schedule an appointment with a subject librarian, email libaskus@d.umn.edu, or drop-in during the day.

Writing Support

Writers' Workshop: Drop-ins are welcome. To ensure a time slot, schedule an in-person or online appointment.

Health and Safety Resources for Students

For additional descriptions about each of these items, please visit the syllabus statements webpage.

Mental Health and Stress Management

Counseling services at UMD Health Services is free to all enrolled UMD Students, 615 Niagara Court, umdhs@d.umn.edu, (218) 726-8155

Let's Talk Drop-In Consultations

Crisis and Mental Health Emergency
Basic Needs Security

Champ's Cupboard and Champ's Closet located in the Office of Student Life, 245 Kirby Plaza, open Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., vcsl@d.umn.edu or (218) 726-8501.

Sexual Harassment, Sexual Assault, Stalking and Relationship Violence
Equity, Diversity, Equal Opportunity, and Affirmative Action
Additional Resources

UMD Land Acknowledgement

A Land Acknowledgment is a formal recognition of the unique and enduring relationship that exists between American Indians and their territories. The UMD Land Acknowledgement is an opportunity for the entire University community to increase their awareness of the history of the land on which UMD resides.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy

Generative AI systems, such as ChatGPT, may be used for any assignment with appropriate credit. Examples of attribution formats are available from the RMIT University Library. You are responsible for checking outputs for accuracy and/or appropriateness.