Information Systems and Technology
An Information System (IS) is defined as "a set of interrelated components that collect, manipulate, store, and disseminate data and information and provide a feedback mechanism to meet an objective" (Stair & Reynolds, 2006). This feedback mechanism is used by organizations, which enables organizations to achieve specific goals such as increasing profit margins and/or improving customer service. Information systems consist of four components which are input, processing, output, and feedback. In this paper, the accuracy of and the method of data input for certain situations, the convenience and quality and the method of output for certain situations, the different types of storage devices and how these devices are optimal for different situations, and the role of chosen devices in determining the speed of a computer is explained.
Method of Data Input The accuracy of data input into an information system is very important. Data is raw facts entered into an information system, which, when these facts are brought together to add value, becomes information. For example, an employer 's name, hours worked, and job title entered into a system becomes valuable information to a manager when it is pay day for the employer. If the data is not accurately entered into the system, the data becomes useless. There are different methods used for data input in different situations. A good method to use when requiring data input for printed questionnaires is by using a scanning device called an optical data reader which in turn uses optical mark recognition forms, which are also called mark sense forms. Using these forms for printed questionnaires enables accurate census taking by just scanning the forms. In this process, there is no room for human error and the results are accurate. In a situation such as taking a telephone survey, methods using voice recognition devices are used. This type of input device recognizes human speech, records, and converts the human voice into
Method of Data Input The accuracy of data input into an information system is very important. Data is raw facts entered into an information system, which, when these facts are brought together to add value, becomes information. For example, an employer 's name, hours worked, and job title entered into a system becomes valuable information to a manager when it is pay day for the employer. If the data is not accurately entered into the system, the data becomes useless. There are different methods used for data input in different situations. A good method to use when requiring data input for printed questionnaires is by using a scanning device called an optical data reader which in turn uses optical mark recognition forms, which are also called mark sense forms. Using these forms for printed questionnaires enables accurate census taking by just scanning the forms. In this process, there is no room for human error and the results are accurate. In a situation such as taking a telephone survey, methods using voice recognition devices are used. This type of input device recognizes human speech, records, and converts the human voice into
References: Stair & Reynolds, (2006). Fundamentals of information systems. An introduction to information systems in organizations. Ch. 1, pp.4. Retrieved from University of Phoenix [Electronic Reserved Readings] on April 8, 2007. Stair & Reynolds, (2006). Fundamentals of information systems. Technology. Ch. 2. Retrieved from University of Phoenix [Electronic Reserved Readings] on April 9, 2007.