Page 25 - Information Management 3rd Edition

CHAPTER 2
Information systems
Learning outcomes
At thePend of thisrchaptere, you shoul-d be abple to: ub
• explain the systems concept;
• list the objectives of a system;
• identify the characteristics of an efficient information system;
• modify an existing system;
• implement information systems;
• identify different types of information systems in a business; and
• ex
plain the in
tegratio
n of system
s with
in a busines
s.
2.2 Introduction
Like all the other managers in a business, the information manager also has to
copy
manage the available resources effectively. In most businesses, information systems
that are implemented make it possible for the information manager to manage
information and reach the information objectives productively. Information has
to be collected from outside as well as from inside of the business. Internally,
information has to be collected from all the different business functions, departments and management levels. Because the whole business is involved, all employees and management at all levels can contribute towards the effectiveness and efficiency of the information system. Although this book does not focus on the information technology involved, the information systems used in businesses today all make use of it. Large businesses cannot manage without it and even smaller businesses seem to have a competitive edge over those that do not use the latest technology.
The primary focus of this chapter is on the implementation or modification of information systems. The objectives of such a system, as well as the characteristics of an efficient information system, will also be covered. There are different types of information systems in a business and these systems have to be integrated and managed in such a manner that they function in a coordinated and productive manner. Because there are different interests, objectives, specialities and levels in a business, there are different kinds of systems. All the information needed in a business cannot be gathered from one system only.
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