Systems Information Concepts

Study Notes

Systems Information Concepts

In this article we'll explore some of the key concepts related to designing information systems from the perspective of system designers and managers within organizations who need to understand how these concepts can impact their decision making processes. We will discuss common issues such as determining what data is relevant to which users, navigating organizational politics to get buy-in on new initiatives, managing personnel responsible for implementing changes, coordinating with external contractors during development stages, dealing with vendor relationships, and ensuring security measures when outsourcing work overseas.

Information Systems Design

Information System design refers to the process of creating technology based solutions for the collection, storage, processing, interpretation, dissemination and use of structured and unstructured data within an organization or enterprise. This includes both hardware and software components, along with network infrastructure. A well designed IS will align closely with business objectives while also addressing concerns around usability and maintainability. Some key considerations when it comes to system design include data architecture, database management, user experience, performance optimization, system scalability, recovery mechanisms, and overall system security.

One important aspect of IS design is identifying needs and goals prior to implementation. For example, if you're trying to improve customer satisfaction through better online ordering functionality, your focus would likely fall upon improving website speed and efficiency rather than adding more features that may confuse customers. Understanding end users requirements upfront helps ensure successful deployment downstream as system stewards can tailor specific feature sets according to actual usage patterns observed over time.

Organizational Politics & Buy-In

A critical component involved often overlooked by novice system designers involves understanding organizational politics and garnering support among colleagues before embarking on any major IT initiative. It's crucial here because resistance isn't just limited to upper management; it could stem from anywhere across various departments - finance team worried about budgetary constraints or HR concerned about training implications etc. Navigating complex internal hierarchies requires patience and empathy towards differing viewpoints without compromising core values held dear within own department.

Personnel Management

Managing staff directly tasked with administration tasks becomes easier once clear roles have been defined preemptively during planning phases. This goes beyond merely assigning duties though: thoughtful consideration must take place regarding interpersonal dynamics between employees too - especially those working together frequently throughout day/night shifts due varying schedules imposed by nature of job function.

Description

Explore key concepts in designing information systems from the perspective of system designers and managers. Learn about Information System design process, organizational politics, buy-in strategies, and personnel management tips.