Info System for Managers

Lesson 01 - Managers: Key to Information Technology Results

Key learning objectives: 1. What must managers do to advance their organization through the effective use of information systems and information technology? 2. Am I, as a manager, prepared to get involved with information systems and information technology to farther the organizational mission?

Information Systems and Information Technology

Is there a difference between information systems and information technology? Most managers, even the ones in information systems and information technology, would say no. Most individuals think the terms mean the same thing and are interchangeable. However, that is not completely correct and until you understand how the two areas interact within the organization, the organization will have problems successfully implementing effective information systems and information technology. What is Information Technology Information Technology (IT) is an organization defined set of infrastructure of technology. IT includes computer hardware, software, networks, and databases. IT is a component of Information Systems. IT is the physical aspects of Information Systems. IT, by itself, will not provide the capability to meet the organization’s objectives. IT is necessary but not sufficient in achieving the organization’s mission. What is information Systems Information Systems (IS) consists of the IT infrastructure, business processes and procedures, data, information, and people of the organization. Information Systems enable the organization to meet fundamental objectives, which in turn allows of achieving the mission of the organization. A good analogy of how the two areas fit together is the electrical power system. An infrastructure of technology provides a means to delivery electricity to users. However, the users decide how each will utilize the electricity to achieve their individual or organizational objectives. IT supplied the delivery system for data and information,...