chapter 1- key concepts

Digital Revolution

The shift from mechanical and analog

devices to digital devices and processes. : A paper ordering process becomes an

online ordering system.

Information Age

A period in which producing, distributing,

and controlling information drives much of

the economy. : A retailer uses customer and inventory

data to coordinate sales and

replenishment.

MIS

Managing information systems so that they

support business strategies and goals. : A company selects a system because it

improves a process that matters to its strategy.

information

technology

Hardware, software, and data technologies. : Computers, an operating system, and a database

information system

Hardware, software, data, procedures, and

people working together. : An ordering system includes the

application, order data, employee instructions, and trained users.

Hardware

Physical electronic devices used by the system. : A laptop, barcode scanner, or monitor.

software

Programs that provide instructions to computer hardware. : An operating system or inventory application

data

recorded facts or figures: a store sold 800 units last month

procedures

Instructions for people who use an

information system. : Employees verify a customer's identity

before changing a refund.

people

Users and specialists who operate, manage,

or support the system. : Employees enter orders and managers

interpret reports.

information

Data interpreted in a meaningful context that can reduce uncertainty or support a decision. : Sales were 20% below target, so the manager investigates the shortfall.

automation

Moving work from the human side of an information system to the computer side. : Software automatically matches routine invoices while

employees investigate exceptions.

business user involvement

Users help define requirements, evaluate systems, learn procedures, and use systems to achieve business goals. : Employees explain their

ordering needs and test a proposed system.

organizational change

Introducing new technology also requires training, changes in procedures, and attention to employee resistance.: A store trains cashiers and

revises refund procedures before launching new software.