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Foundations of Information Systems

Summary

Foundations of Information SystemsSummary

1.1 Introduction to Information Systems

  • An information system refers to a set of interconnected components that integrate the collection, processing, storage, and distribution of data, information, and digital products in order to support decision-making, coordination, control, analysis, and visualization in an organization.
  • Information systems can be categorized into different types based on their scope and functionality, including executive information systems used by an organization’s executive staff, decision support systems used by senior managers, management information systems used by middle managers, and transaction processing systems used by frontline workers. In addition, everyone in an organization typically uses enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems for functions such as project management, accounting and financial management including payroll, and tracking customer service.
  • An information system typically consists of five key components—people, data, procedures, hardware, and software.
  • The basic purpose of information systems—processing and sharing information—has been part of our communication practices since the beginning of civilization, evolving from simple cave drawings to the complex technology we have today.
  • The printing press, telegraph, and telephone laid the technological foundation for the communication tools used in today’s complex information systems.
  • While societies developed a variety of methods for communication, they also created tools for calculations, establishing the foundation for modern computers. The abacus from at least 1100 BCE, analog and digital calculators invented in the 1600s, and the Jacquard loom invented in the early 1800s, provided the foundation for the computers used in today’s complex information systems.
  • Once the components of information systems are in place, the elements of environment, input, processing, output, control, and feedback are necessary for the information system to function.
  • Information system operations refer to how the system is used and includes data capture, processing, storage, retrieval, and dissemination.
  • Organizations have come to rely on the field of information systems as a critical resource. A well-developed and maintained information system offers many benefits, including improved efficiency, more robust decision-making, enhanced communication processes, increased productivity, and competitive advantages.

1.2 Frameworks of Knowledge and Industry Standards

  • To promote best practices and help organizations achieve information systems goals and objectives, the field of IS is guided by frameworks and industry standards.
  • Frameworks help IS professionals apply critical thinking, promote proactive communication, guide IS professionals as they organize their ideas, provide a foundation for strategic planning, and provide IS professionals with resources such as continuing education, best practices, and guidelines for information systems operations.
  • Industry standards help IS professionals ensure that the system they develop has the appropriate infrastructure and technological components required to function efficiently.
  • Common frameworks applicable to IS include Agile, COBIT, ITIL, McKinsey 7-S, SFIA, Waterfall, and Zachman.
  • Industry standards that are applicable to IS include ASIS, FISMA, IS2020, ISO/IEC 27001, and TOGAF.
  • IS professionals perform many roles in organizations, including data information systems management; database management; systems analysis, design, and development; security risk management; enterprise security, data privacy, and risk management; cloud computing; data analytics and modeling; and project management.

1.3 Connections between Information Systems and Information Technology

  • To help organizations meet IS needs, the U.S. Department of Labor has developed the Information Technology Competency Model, a framework that defines the knowledge, skills, and abilities that are essential for IS and IT professionals.
  • Key competencies include personal effectiveness, academics, and workplace behaviors such as teamwork and decision-making.
  • DOL also identified technical competencies, which refer to skills and abilities needed in a specific industry. For IS professionals, these include the principles of information technology, databases and applications, technological networks, telecom, wireless and mobility, software development and management, user and customer support, digital media and visualization, compliance, risk management, security, and information assurance.
  • While IS and IT are connected and the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they are not the same. IS focuses on an organization’s goals and developing an information system to meet organizational needs. IT is concerned with technological operations and designing and building an organization’s technological infrastructure, including the computer hardware, software, and networks required to support the information system.
  • To become an IS professional, students should learn about various topics important in business and technology, including business analysis, cybersecurity, enterprise systems, information system design, information technology, networking, and programming.
  • In addition to a degree, IS professionals may want to pursue certification. The certifications held by IS professionals include Associate Computing Professional (ACP), Business Data Management Professional (BDMP), Certified Business Intelligence Professional (CBIP), Certified Data Professional (CDP), and Information Systems Analyst (ISA).

1.4 The Global Importance of Information Systems

  • IS has and continues to be an important component in globalization as IS provides the resources organizations need to achieve success and innovation in the global marketplace.
  • As technology advances throughout the world, IS must continue to evolve. The technologies that impact IS include artificial intelligence, machine learning, 5G, the Internet of Things, edge computing, and blockchain.
  • As technology advances, IS also faces more risks that create additional challenges to cybersecurity.
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