Computer Systems Notes

Introduction to Computer Systems

• Instructor: Charito B. Taguba

Module Objectives

• At the end of this module, you should be able to:

  • Explain the importance of systems.

  • Enumerate different types of system components.

  • Enumerate different types of stakeholders.

  • Define an information system and describe its components.

Understanding Systems

• Definition of a System:

  • Derived from the Greek word "Systema" meaning organized relationships among functioning units or components.

  • Key Formula: System = Order + Structure

• Nature of Systems:

  • A set of detailed methods, procedures, and routines intended to carry out a specific activity or solve a problem.

  • A group of interrelated procedures used for a business function with identifiable boundaries working together for a purpose.

System Components

• The system integrates all its components to achieve a central objective rather than individual benefits.

• Key Attributes:

  • Organization: Orderly grouping of components.

  • Interaction: Components collaborate to achieve specific objectives.

  • Interdependence: Each component relies on each other.

  • Integration: Seamless connection between system components.

Elements of the System

• Core Elements:

  • Outputs and Inputs

  • Processor(s)

  • Control

  • Feedback

  • Environment

  • Boundaries & Interface

Components of a Computer System

• Software:

  • Various types of programs, including:

  • Word Processing Software

  • Spreadsheet Software

  • Database Software

  • Web Development Software

  • Operating Systems

  • Utility Software

  • Programming Languages

• Hardware: Physical components of a computer system.

• Data: Raw facts and materials.

• Database: Collection of related data.

• Procedures: Rules, policies, and steps in a computer system.

• People: Stakeholders involved with the system.

Types of Stakeholders

• Applications Programmer: Codes application software.

• Computer Operator: Operates large computers.

• Database Administrator: Manages large databases.

• Software Engineer: Builds software products using engineering principles.

• Network Administrator: Plans and implements networks.

• Programmer/Analyst: Handles applications programming and systems analysis.

• Web Developer: Designs web pages and sites.

• Webmaster: Manages an organization's internet presence.

Types of Information

1. Strategic Information:

   • Used for long-range planning and directions.

   • Examples:

     • Yearly/monthly production quotas.

     • Policies on machine replacement.

     • Identifying the best product mix.

2. Tactical Information:

   • Used for short-range decisions to enhance profitability.

   • Examples:

     • Finding areas of high cost.

     • Identifying production bottlenecks.

     • Performance measures of machines.

3. Operational Information:

   • Needed for day-to-day operations.

   • Examples:

     • Monitoring production information.

     • Preventive maintenance schedules.

     • Coordination of tool and personnel availability.

4. Statutory Information:

   • Required by law to be sent to government authorities.

Characteristics of Information

1. Timeliness: Information must be delivered when needed to be actionable.

2. Appropriateness: Must be relevant to the user's activities to reduce decision-making uncertainty.

3. Accuracy: Value of the information is important; do not always require 100% accuracy.

4. Conciseness: Should contain minimum details to prevent information overload.

5. Understandability: Formatting enhances clarity, with preferences for tabular versus graphical representations.

Need for Information Systems

• Rationale for Systems:

  • Increasing size of organizations leads to larger data volumes.

  • Need for timely processing to facilitate quick actions.

  • Enhances competitiveness through better information utilization.

  • Rising complexity necessitates innovative processing.

  • Same data can be processed in multiple ways for different outcomes.