IT Jargon Decoded
Finally, a glossary that doesn’t need a glossary
A
Technology that enables machines to simulate human intelligence, such as learning, reasoning, and decision-making.
AI (Artificial Intelligence)
A tool that helps your team work faster and smarter by doing tasks like writing, analyzing, or organizing information for you.
A hardware device that allows wireless devices to connect to a network.
Access Point (Wi-Fi)
The thing that actually gives you Wi-Fi in different parts of your building. Not enough of these = dead zones and complaints.
The use of technology to perform tasks with minimal human intervention.
Automation
What It Means
Definition
Letting technology handle repetitive work so your staff can focus on residents instead of busywork.
A type of artificial intelligence that can act independently to make decisions, plan actions, and complete tasks toward a goal with minimal human input.
Agentic AI
A set of rules or step-by-step instructions that a computer follows to solve a problem or complete a task.
Algorithm
AI that doesn’t just help… it does the work for you. Think of it like a digital employee that can take a task, figure out the steps, and execute it without constant direction.
The logic behind how a system makes decisions. It’s basically the “recipe” that tells technology what to do and how to do it.
B
The maximum rate at which data can be transmitted over an internet connection.
Bandwidth
How much internet your building can handle at once before everything slows down.
A copy of data stored separately to be used in case of data loss or system failure.
Backup (Data Backup)
You call IT when something breaks… they fix it… and then you wait for the next thing to break.
Software applications that support core business operations such as HR, finance, and clinical systems.
Business Systems
All the tools your team uses every day to run the community, whether they work well together or not.
What It Means
Definition
C
A network of remote servers used to store, manage, and process data over the internet.
Cloud
Your data lives somewhere online instead of on a physical server in your building.
The practice of protecting systems, networks, and data from digital attacks or unauthorized access.
Cybersecurity
Keeping hackers out and preventing one wrong click from turning into a major problem.
What It Means
Definition
Adherence to laws, regulations, and standards that govern data security and privacy.
Compliance (HIPAA, etc.)
The ability of devices and systems to connect and communicate with each other over a network.
Connectivity
Following the rules so your organization stays secure, avoids fines, and protects sensitive information.
Everything works together and stays connected without constant issues or downtime.
D
The process of examining data to uncover patterns, trends, and insights.
Data Analytics
Turning all your data into useful information so you can make better decisions instead of guessing.
An incident where sensitive, protected, or confidential data is accessed or disclosed without authorization.
Data Breach
When the wrong people get access to your data… and it becomes a very big problem.
A set of policies and procedures for restoring systems and data after a major disruption or failure.
Disaster Recovery
Your plan for getting everything back up and running after something goes seriously wrong.
Making sure all your devices are secure, updated, and working properly without constant headaches.
Where all your important information lives so it can be stored, found, and used when needed.