Abstract
Any information system consists of the four main components which ensure its constant operation and allow users to retrieve a certain output. These elements complement and support one another; they make operation system most helpful and effective. Not only people but whole organizations rely on information systems; use them for work, study, social networking and other purposes. Information system is defined “as a discipline formed from business and computer science elements and develops a separate area of study” (Morley and Parker, 2010).
Let’s take a closer look at each of the four main elements of an information system.
The technology sub-system includes hardware, software and data. Hardware refers to computer and other equipment like mouse, keyboard, screen, printer, hard disk, memory and so on, used in order to input and save information, operate the computer system, produce and display output. It is extremely important to use modern and advanced technology in order to make the process fast and easy. Software refers to instructions that enable hardware to function properly, input, process, save and output data and can be divided into two categories: system software and application software. The first one contains operating system which control and relate to hardware while the second one consist of programs designed to increase productivity and help users to work with information effectively. Data refers to input including names, numbers or any other entities interpreted in meaningful information. Information system uses data to produce organized facts which will be ready to retrieve and use. Taking into consideration the above mentioned we can assume that high tech subsystem would enable an information system to function successfully.
The process sub-system is a set of rules that ensure information system to function as a real business process. It keeps information system including operations performed within it secure and helps users to search and retrieve information effectively. Procedures that form the sub-system combine different policies into set of commands which govern the process. These procedures must be thorough and consistent otherwise information system might not function properly. The smallest discrepancy in a sequence or missed detail can lead to difficulties in use or security issues.
People in information system are both creators and users. First design, install and maintain information system, second use and benefit from it. Very often there two groups do not cooperate directly. However, users deal with information analyzed by specialists, design and process invented by them and so on. Very often importance of the element is being underestimated while it is crucial because it determines whether information system will fail or function successfully.
Structure of information system consists of three different support levels. The basic one is called operational support. It refers to designing, starting, monitoring and supporting the system. The next one is called support of knowledge works and refers to process which enables internal communication. The third layer is called management support and refers to managing and monitoring the process as well as evaluating resources and performance.
Information system usually starts with the development phrase which consists of study and research, analysis, testing and, finally, installation. While working at the initial phrase, specialists make sure that each of the four elements of information system was considered and guarantees smooth operating and least inconveniences. Moreover, further phrases of information system such as operation and evaluation periods depend on the fact whether none of the following components: technology and process sub-systems, people and structure were underestimated.
References
Management Information System (MIS) (2011/2012). Retrieved from http://www.uotechnology.edu.iq/ce/Lectures/SarmadFuad-MIS/MIS_Lecture_3.pdf
Dudovskiy, J. (2012). Information System and Its Components. Retrieved from http://research-methodology.net/information-system-and-its-components/
