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What is an Information System?

(IS) Is a set of interrelated elements that collect (input), manipulate (process), store, and disseminate (output) data and information and provide a reaction (feedback mechanism) to meet an objective. It can be manual or computerized. Feedback mechanism help organizations to achieve their goals and is important to the successful operation of a system. It is information from the system that is used to make changes to output or processing activities.

Computer Based Information Systems (CBIS): Is a single set of hardware, software, databases, telecommunications, people, and procedures that are configured to collect, manipulate, store, and process data into information.

Input: Gather and capture raw data.

Hardware consists of computer equipment used to perform input, processing, and output activities. Input devices can be keyboard, mice, scanner and others. Processing devices can be computer chips that contain the central processing unit and main memory and the processor speed. Output devices can be printers and computer screens. Software consists of the computer programs that govern the operation of the computer. These programs allow a computer to process important information for the business in any area. A computer can have a software to control basic computer operations such as Microsoft Windows XP and another one to run specific tasks, like word processing or tabulating numbers

Processing: is convert data to useful output. The processing can involve making calculations, taking alternatives, storing data and information useful for future use.

Output produce useful information, usually in form of reports or documents by computer or handwritten that contain general info about the final product of the business that in some cases can become input for another one.

Procedures include the strategies, policies, methods, and rules for using the CBIS, including the operation, maintenance, and security of the computer.

A database is an organized collection of facts and information, typically consisting of two or more related data files. Most managers and executives consider a database to be one of the most valuable parts of a computer-based information system. With database the business can have a control of the name, phone number, the personal information of every employ etc. Telecommunications is the electronic transmission of signals for communications, which enables organizations to carry out their processes and tasks through effective computer networks. Networks connect computers and equipment in a building, around the country, or around the world to enable electronic communication. The Internet is the world s largest computer network, actually consisting of thousands or interconnected networks, all freely exchanging information.

Barriers when using an Information Systems include Hardware, Software and People. Hardware barriers because there s a limit on the computer devices that the company can use. Software include programs that could do certain activities or run with certain software etc. and People barriers because personal may resist to the system change because they prefer the older one.

People are the most important element of a computer-based IS because they make the difference between failure or success. IS personnel include all the people who manage, run, program, and maintain the system.