Management information system (MIS) refers to the process of developing and using information systems to assist individuals and businesses in attaining their goals and objectives. Management information system thus comprises of computer hardware, software, people or users, data and procedures for processing such data.
Due to high technological advancements, management information systems have experienced drastic changes. This has led to various developments in the architecture and development of management information systems. Individuals as well as business organizations have come up with new technologies to assist system users in effectively meeting their goals and objectives. A good example of such technological innovations is collaborative computer systems.
Information within the Context of the Workplace. Within the context of the workplace, information refers to facts or data that have been validated or authenticated as true and accurate. Such facts must be obtained within reasonable time and prove to be useful to the recipient, for example, data about the level of demand of a particular good within the marketplace must be made available to the marketer at the right time so as to help him or her during decision making processes such as when planning for planning for proper marketing strategies. Kroenke simplifies the definition by referring to information as data that has been put into a meaningful manner. Kroenke argues that valuable information must have the ability to influence decision making process as well as bringing about change within the organization (17). Furthermore, valuable information is characterized by accuracy, timeliness, relevancy, sufficiency and cost worthiness.
Difference between Information Technology and Information Systems. The main difference between information technology and information systems is that information technology (IT) refers to hardware such as hard disks and servers, software like Microsoft and documentations and program codes whereas information systems (IS) refer to an organized process of dealing with information. Information systems usually rely on information technology for proper functioning. Moreover, information technology forms part of information systems. Information systems are often designed to generate, store, manipulate or distribute information.
Kroenke defines information systems as a collection of components that work together to generate information. He further asserts that information technology refers to various products, techniques and methods and principles or standards that are used collectively in generation of information (46).
According to Bocij, Greasley and Hickie, information technology is a subset of information systems (34). Information technology thus deals with hardware, software and operating systems whereas information system encompasses people, processes, machines and technology. Kroenke asserts that information technology is a combination of scientific methods, machines and processes (85).
Use of Information Systems for Collaboration. It is important to use information systems for collaboration because it facilitates easy sharing of resources such as documents between employees within the organization through the computer systems. Through sharing of resources, the organization is thus able to improve its overall productivity.
In my opinion, information systems often allow team members within an organization on various computing applications that would enable them achieve their goals and objectives. The use of information systems within the workplace also encourages working from any place other than the office. It eliminates the geographical barrier within the workplace since a person can work from anywhere. The use of information systems during collaborations also enhances networking within the organizations. Collaborative information systems also simplify work. It makes work easier. It also facilitates efficiency and effectiveness hence high productivity. It also helps in producing high quality work. Similarly, a collaborative information system increases marketability of the organization. It also helps in creating online meetings and conferences. Through collaborative information systems, an organization can easily create online discussion forums.
Using Collaboration Systems to improve Team Communication. Collaboration systems can be used to improve team communication by allowing easy sharing of resources such as documents through computer networks. This entails sharing of vital information that may be required by the team members. Collaboration systems also provide users with problem solving techniques. Collaboration systems thus allow people to work together towards attainment of the set goals and objectives. In my view, collaborative systems also facilitate proficiency and effectiveness in carrying out organizational operations.
Content Management Using Collaboration Systems. Management of content using collaboration entails use of collaborative management tools (CMT) that support sharing of resources amongst the system users. Furthermore, the collaborative software should encourage interactions between the users so as to facilitate sharing of the resources. Through proper authentication, the collaborative systems can be used to select users who may add content into the systems. The collaborative system should also allow for constant flow of information between the users. Collaboration systems also assist in increasing the level of control of content within the systems.
Conclusion
I would argue that it is important for business professionals as well as organizations to develop and deploy appropriate technologies that may assist them in effective execution of their business operations. It is important to note that collaboration systems allow for development of ideas and plans with others. Thus, it is very essential in team-working and attainment of business goals and objectives.
