Chapter 1: Review Questions

Chapter 1: Review Questions Solutions

1. What is information systems analysis and design?

Information systems analysis and design is the process of developing and maintaining an information system.

2. What is systems thinking? How is it useful for thinking about computer-based information systems?

Systems thinking involves identifying something as a system, visualizing the system and translating it into abstract terms, and thinking about the characteristics of the specific situation. Systems thinking is useful for thinking about computer-based information systems because information systems can be seen as subsystems in larger organizational systems, taking input from, and returning output to, their organizational environments.

3. What is decomposition? Coupling? Cohesion?

Decomposition is the process of breaking down a system into its component parts. Coupling is the extent to which subsystems are dependent on each other. Cohesion is the extent to which a system or a subsystem performs a single function.

4. In what way are organizations systems?

Organizations are systems because they are made up of interrelated components working together for a purpose. They take input from and return output to their environments. Organizations can be redesigned through a systems analysis and design process by which system components are replaced while preserving interconnections between components.

5. List the different classes of information systems described in this chapter. How do they differ from one another?

(1) Transaction processing systems, (2) Management information systems, and (3) Decision support systems (for individuals, groups, and executives). Transaction processing systems (TPS) automate data handling about business activities and transactions. TPS systems can generate reports based on data input from transactions and other activities. A management information system can take data from the TPS and convert them into a meaningful...