6. Information Technology Operations

This chapter provides an overview of the role of technology in alternative investment manager operations. The role and items typically covered in information security policies will be discussed. We then discuss the role of information technology consultants. In this discussion, we outline the software development life cycle including the process for change management and sandbox testing. The role of data rooms in archiving and distributing management company and fund information will be discussed. We then outline cybersecurity trends with regards to fund operations including the role of penetration testing, software patches and vendor cybersecurity analysis. We conclude the chapter with a discussion of business continuity and disaster recovery planning and the role of big data and artificial intelligence in alternative investment operations.