Management Information Systems Overview

Study Notes

MIS is a computer-based system that transforms data into useful information for company departments.
MIS tools help managers with decision-making, operations management, and evaluation of company departments.

Management involves efficiently using people and resources to accomplish company goals.
Key management steps include planning, organizing, staffing, directing, and controlling.

Information is processed data used in planning, controlling, and operations within an MIS.
Data is unorganized raw facts, observations, or messages, while information is its processed form.
Information, unlike data, is often presented in a structured format providing insights and conclusions.

An information system is a combination of people, hardware, software, networks, and data resources that collects, transforms, and spreads information within an organization.
Information technology integrates computers and communications equipment to form information systems.

Input includes hardware (e.g., computers), software (instructions), stored data (facts), personnel (operators), procedures, and communication networks.
Output is the final product of a system's input and processing activities.

Executive support systems (ESS) help senior managers make strategic decisions using data analysis and modeling.
Decision support systems (DSS) assist managers in making decisions in uncertain situations.
Knowledge management systems (KMS) promote information creation and sharing, particularly in knowledge-based companies.
Transaction processing systems (TPS) handle routine transactions efficiently (e.g., payroll, billing).
Office automation systems (OAS) improve employee productivity, often using software tools.

MIS helps companies handle threats, improve competitiveness, and drive organizational changes through strategic integration.
Managers use information from MIS to compare actual performance to targets, identify problem areas, and explore new opportunities.
Effective MIS improves decision-making which leads to enhanced performance and better outcomes.