INF1002 Information Systems Overview

Introducing INF1002

• The INF1002 course includes theory and practical components.
• The theoretical component focuses on fundamental information systems concepts.
• The practical component covers Microsoft Excel and Python programming.
• The course is assessed through practical tests, multiple-choice questions (MCQs), assignments, group projects, and a final MCQ exam.
• To proceed with information systems as a major, a final mark of 65% is required.

INF1002 Assessment Schedule

• Group projects should consist of 3 to 4 members.
• Submissions are subject to penalties for lateness.
• Online assessments are released on Wednesdays at 3 PM latest and expire on Sundays at 11:59 PM.
• For group submissions, only one member needs to submit the assignment.

Defining Information Systems

• An information system is a collection of interconnected components that collect, process, store, and disseminate information for decision-making.
• Information is processed and organized data that holds meaning and relevance for users or decision-makers within an organization.
• A system is a collection of interconnected elements that work together to achieve a goal. Systems have inputs, processing mechanisms, outputs, and feedback.

Learning Outcomes

• Define Information Systems
• Explain characteristics and functions of Information Systems
• List and describe the components of Information Systems
• Understand the role of Information Systems in business and other organisations
• Explain the roles of information and communication technologies in society

Key Concepts of Defining Information Systems

• Data refers to raw symbols that lack meaning on their own.
• Information is data that is processed and converted into meaningful facts by combining related data.
• Knowledge is information applied to a specific decision or action.
• Business Intelligence (BI) is information collected from various sources (suppliers, customers, competitors) used for strategic decision-making.

Understanding Information Systems in Businesses

• Information systems play a crucial role in various aspects of business operations, such as:
  • Determining market profitability and feasibility.
  • Creating the makeup of store and app user interface.

Characteristics and Functions of Information Systems

• Accessibility: Easily find and use information.
• Accuracy: Information must be free from errors.
• Completeness: Information must be complete, lacking missing details.
• Economic: The cost invested in gathering and producing information must be worthwhile.
• Flexibility: Usable by various users for different functions.
• Relevancy: Information should be appropriate and relevant to the use or user.
• Reliability: Information should come from a reliable source and be trustworthy.
• Security: Information must be protected from unauthorized access and manipulation.
• Simplicity: Information should be free from ambiguity.
• Timeliness: Information must be available at the right time.
• Verifiability: The correctness of information must be verifiable.

Functions of Information Systems

• Transaction Processing Systems (TPS) manage routine transactions.
• Enterprise Resource Planning Systems (ERPs) integrate various business processes, including:
  • Accounting systems
  • Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems
  • Registration systems
• Learning Management Systems (LMS) manage and facilitate online learning.

The Role of Information and Communication Technologies in Society

• Keeping in touch: Facilitates communication with individuals and groups.
• Sharing content: Enables the dissemination of information and ideas.
• Collaborating: Supports teamwork and joint projects.
• Reviewing products and services: Enables online shopping and comparisons.
• Participating in virtual worlds: Provides opportunities for online interactions and experiences.
• Finding economic opportunities: Connects individuals with businesses and employment opportunities.

This quiz covers the fundamentals of the INF1002 course, including key theoretical concepts of information systems and practical applications like Excel and Python programming. It assesses understanding of course structure, components of information systems, and assessment schedules.