Page 11 - Information Management 3rd Edition

Chapter 1 – The role of information management within a business
In some businesses, consultants are used to design, implement and maintain information systems. Part-time employees can also be used to do this. These decisions depend on the needs of the specific business. Usually, consultants give recommendations, but leave the final decision to the management of the business. Consultants provide the expertise and, because they are outsiders, their recommendations are usually objective. Many consultants are hired on a temporary basis (one day per week) to maintain the system. One disadvantage in this case is that they are not available all the time, especially when immediate assistance is needed.
1.4 The role of the information manager in a business
From the introduction, it is clear that the information manager is responsible for managing the activities in a business that relate to information. The information manager is responsible for combining people, technology, material, money and sources of information in such a way that the objectives of the information function, as well as the business, are achieved. Therefore, the information manager can be defined as the person who is responsible for managing the information function; that is for planning, organising, leading and controlling all information
Pre-pub
activities and the human resources related to these activities in a business. The
information manager will also have to take the initiative to create an information system that can be used by the business as a whole.
1.4.1 Objectives of the information manager
The primary objective of information management is to present relevant
copy
information at the right time, in the right format and at an acceptable cost to specific
decision-makers in a business. To achieve this objective, data must be captured
according to a specific medium. Source documents and data must be stored in the
most effective manner, the most appropriate aids for the administration of the information must be identified and used, and finally, information must be made available to the decision-maker through the most appropriate medium, such as paper, computer screen, telephone or fax.
Depending on the business and the specific job specification, the information manager is responsible for the following secondary objectives in the business:
• To maximise productivity by managing the subordinates and relevant activities in the section such as developing and maintaining information systems.
• To provide managers with the correct information needed for effective decision making.
• To provide a working environment where employees can function optimally. This would include equipment, computers, furniture and stationery and even considering aspects such as office layout.
• To develop satisfactory lines of communication among employees assigned within the information office management functional area, and between these employees and employees in other areas within the business.
• To ensure the business is equipped with the latest affordable and relevant technology.
5
Juta_Information Management 3E.indb 5
2021/05/28
14:24