The use of computers does not become ‘mainstream’; it is now a necessity. Computer information systems let organizations dealing with mass electronic and information collect, organize, and distribute their data. They apply to those organizations that have to deal with large quantities of electronic data. Knowledge of information systems is a decent asset in all industries because individuals skilled at developing solutions for data management are in demand. Information systems are a considerable concern for many companies that decide their competitive edge. The following article explores this field and what you can do with a degree in computer information systems.
What is a Computer Information System?
Computer information systems is a broad term. It manages communications between hardware and software on data storage and management devices. Examples include databases, cloud storage, and servers. The architecture of CIS is based on the data collected and the way an organization wants to use it. Professionals in computer information systems, also known as systems managers and database administrators, determine the most productive configuration and perform hardware and software integrations accordingly.
Professionals will need to know how to improve a company’s current business processes by implementing a computer information system that can meet organizational needs. For example, if an organization is anxious about its employee productivity, IT professionals might take an existing computer information system and tailor it to track and measure relevant metrics. This system would provide data that could be used to design workplace policies that optimize labor hours.
Types of Computer Information System
There are several categories in computer information systems. Let’s take a look at the most used systems in the organization.
| Information Systems | Functions |
| Transaction Information System | Day-to-day transaction, Performs simple tasks and records them. |
| Office Automation (Enterprise Collaboration) Systems | Generates, stores, and distributes information across an organization, enhancing communication and collaboration. |
| Management Information System | Collect Huge data, and process them into usable form |
| Decision Support System | Advanced CIS helps organizational leaders, make decisions when potential outcomes are uncertain |
| Executive Information System | Compile a vast array of data regarding the internal and external affairs of the organization. |
| Expert Systems | Match the decision-making ability of humans by using reasoning to learn the facts based on rules set by individuals. |
| Finance and Accounting Systems | Tracks Financial Data, can be used to perform audits and generate accounting reports. |
Components of Computer Information Systems
Hardware comprises all the physical devices involved in the computing processes of an information system. With the appropriate software and programs that allow users to direct their computers to manipulate hardware, data, and program files, such systems are usable for communicating with other devices. A subcategory of computer information systems refers to the handling of communications between hardware devices and their software called information technology.
Most of the organizations store their information in databases using IT. The process of using, running, and maintaining these systems is guided through an organization’s predefined procedures for using its information system. This usually comes from a written or verbal comment from some IT professional or senior leader in an attempt to safeguard the data.
Essential Skills for Computer Information Systems
Skills such as problem-solving, collaboration, self-motivation, analytical abilities, and logical thinking are crucial for academic success and professional growth. From a technical point of view, some of the skill sets are:
1. Business Processes and Management Expertise
The CIS occupations entail various overlapping areas of business and technology. Knowledge of basic concepts, such as resources and delegation of tasks, techniques in management of the projects, and communication between various departments, is essential for CIS operations.
2. Technical Knowledge
Having Foundational knowledge of the industry’s best practices, an understanding of computer hardware, and some experience with at least one programming language will be helpful for them.
3. Mathematics
CIS professionals should have a foundational knowledge of algebra, statistics, calculus, geometry, and algorithms. A firm grasp of these mathematical subjects will allow for a much deeper understanding of what is happening on a mathematical level with analysis programs and coding functions.
Benefits and Challenges
Information systems have opened many exciting doors in the public and private sectors. In so doing, these systems allow organizations to communicate more effectively than ever before. These, in turn, stimulate creative innovation and make collaboration more manageable than it was previously conceivable.
These systems form the basis for cloud computing, which enables users to maintain data and use software not installed on their computers but on a remote server elsewhere. This allows the business to streamline operations immediately without being burdened by extreme overhead expenses. Computers also allow businesses the unparalleled use of technology in making personalized adjustments in response to real-time market factors.
The drawbacks to CIS are their susceptibility to cyber security breaches by hackers, malware, and viruses. Depending on the size of these systems, it may also be costly to maintain them on the macro level. The cost is again somewhat irrelevant, however, as the benefits of using a computer information system may well outweigh the costs of not doing so.
Conclusion
Computer information systems have been necessary for the management of large sets of data for their effective collection, organization, and distribution. The major categories include Transaction Information Systems, Management Information Systems, and Decision Support Systems that help a variety of business functions.
CIS involves key elements like hardware, software, and communication technologies; besides these, a professional should be accomplished in technical knowledge, business processes, and mathematics. The benefits include enhanced communication, smooth operations, and decision-making. However, it poses a challenge regarding cyber security risks and the maintenance cost of the same. Nevertheless, CIS studies come with ample career opportunities in a data-driven world.
