BIT 1203: The Organization and Information System

Study Notes

A system is a set of related components that work together based on a set of instructions to produce a specific result or towards a goal.
These components can include hardware, software, people, procedures, data, and networks.

An information system is a broad term that refers to a combination of people, processes, data, and technology that work together to manage and process information within an organization or across various entities.
It encompasses hardware, software, data, procedures, and the people who interact with and manage these components.

Computer Hardware: Physical equipment used for input, output, and processing.
Computer Software: Programs/ applications used to control and coordinate hardware components.
- Classified into three types: System Software, Application Software, and Procedures.
Databases: Data are the raw facts and figures that are unorganized and later processed to generate information.
- Softwares are used for organizing and serving data to the user, managing physical storage of media and virtual resources.
Network: Networks resources refer to the telecommunication networks like intranet, extranet, and the internet.
- Facilitate the flow of information in the organization and include communication media, and Network Support.
Human Resources: People are the end-users of the information system and are responsible for developing and operating information systems.

Definition: The process of creating, designing, implementing, and maintaining software or information systems to fulfill specific organizational or business needs.
Importance: Aims to create efficient and streamlined processes, improve quality, and reduce costs.

Transaction Processing System (TPS): Computerized information systems that process large amounts of data for routine business transactions.
- Components: Inputs, Outputs, Storage, and Processing System.
- Features: Speed, Controlled Access, Reliability, and Durability.
Management Information System (MIS): Used for processing data and comprises various components that work together to collect, process, store, and disseminate information to support managerial decision-making and organizational operations.
Decision Support System (DSS): A computerized information system designed to assist managers and decision-makers in making effective decisions.
- Provides an interactive environment for decision-making and comprises Data Management, Database Management System (DBMS), Communication and Collaboration Tools, and User Interface.
Executive Information System (EIS): Designed to support top-level management in making strategic decisions.

Top-Level Management: Responsible for setting the overall direction, goals, and strategies of the organization.
Middle-Level Management: Interprets plans and policies created by top-level management and implements them as per their departments.
Low-Level Management: Assigns jobs and tasks to various workers and guides and instructs workers for day-to-day activities.

Definition: A systems analyst investigates, analyzes, designs, develops, installs, evaluates, and maintains a company’s information systems.
Duties and Responsibilities: Helps translate business requirements into IT projects, plans projects, develops schedules, and estimates costs.
Requirements: Technical knowledge, oral and written communication skills, an understanding of business operations, and critical thinking skills.

Technical Knowledge: State-of-the-art knowledge is extremely important in a rapidly changing business and technical environment.
Communication Skills: Needs strong oral and written communication skills, and the ability to interact with people at all levels, from operational staff to senior executives.### Business Skills for a Systems Analyst
A systems analyst must work closely with various stakeholders, including managers, supervisors, and operational employees.
To be effective, a systems analyst needs to understand business operations and processes.
Effective communication is crucial for a systems analyst to translate business needs into requirements that can be understood by programmers and systems developers.
A successful systems analyst is business-oriented, curious, and comfortable with financial tools.
A key trait of a successful systems analyst is the ability to see the big picture.