Module 1 - MBA 703 (Sadhya)
Information system definition - ANSWER-An information system (IS) can be defined
technically as a set of interrelated components that collect, process, store, and
distribute information to support decision making and control in an organization
Information systems are combinations of hardware, software, and telecommunications
networks that people build and use to collect, create, and distribute useful data, typically
in organizational settings
Information systems are interrelated components working together to collect, process,
store, and disseminate information to support decision making, coordination, control,
analysis, and visualization in an organization
2 important components of in IS? - ANSWER-1. the components that make up an
information system and
2. the role those components play in an organization
5 major components of IS - ANSWER-1. Hardware
2. Software
3. Data
4. People
5. Processes
Which 3 of the 5 major components of IS are considered technology? - ANSWER-1.
hardware
2. Software
3. data
Technology definition - ANSWER-the application of scientific knowledge for practical
purposes
Hardware definition - ANSWER-the tangible, physical portion of an information system
Examples: Computers, keyboards, disk drives, and flash drives
, Software definition - ANSWER-The set of instructions that tell the hardware what to do,
intangible (cannot be touched)
Two main categories of software - ANSWER-1. Operating system software = makes the
hardware for usable (ex: Microsoft Windows and Google's Android)
2. Application software = which does something useful for ex: Microsoft excel or Angry
birds (apps)
data definition (for this class) - ANSWER-a collection of facts, intangible
Pieces of unrelated data are not very useful. But aggregated, indexed, and organized
together into a database, data can become a powerful tool for businesses.
What is a potential 6th component of IS? - ANSWER-Networking communication
An information system can exist without the ability to communicate. However, in today's
hyper-connected world, it is an extremely rare computer that does not connect to
another device or to an e-network
Process definition - ANSWER-a series of steps undertaken to achieve a desired
outcome or goal
The ultimate goal is to improve processes both internally and externally, enhancing
interfaces with suppliers and customers
What is the role of IS in a business? - ANSWER-Components collect, store, organize,
and distribute data throughout the organization.
IS takes data and turn it into information, and then transform that information into
organizational knowledge
What are the key stages in computer development in business - ANSWER-1.
Mainframe Era - large, single organization, computing, Manufacturing Resources
Planning (MRP)
2. PC Revolution - minicomputer
3. Client-server (LAN, email, ERP)
4. Internet, World Wide Web, E-Commerce (digital communication and increase security
threats)
5. Web 2.0 (interactive website development, blogging, social media, disintermediation)
6. Post-PC world
