Data and Info - wk1

Question 1

Define data?

Answer 1

Data is the raw numbers/input without context

Question 2

Define information?

Answer 2

Information is a collection of data or facts

Question 3

Define a system?

Answer 3

A system is something that accepts input, to make an output through a transformation process. An information system accepts data and after processing it produces information.

Question 4

What does a computer information system need?

Answer 4

Hardware and software
Databases
Telecommunications
Procedures and people

Question 5

Why do people use information systems?

Answer 5

Satisfy curiosity or form an opinion
Accomplish a task
Make decisions
For a business competitive advantage (faster, better, cheaper)

Question 6

What are some disadvantages of an information system, especially for businesses?

Answer 6

Can cost more than it is worth
Subject to human error
Security issues
Malfunctions

Question 7

What are the main types of systems?

Answer 7

Transaction processing system (TPS)
Management information system (MIS)
Executive information system (EIS)
Decision system (DS)
Decision support system (DSS)

Question 8

What is the TPS used for?

Answer 8

The TPS is used for day to day transactions between a customer and organisation. E.G. Checkouts: Products sold & No of units — TPS — Stock levels and invoices.

Question 9

What is the MIS used for?

Answer 9

The MIS is used to timely and accurate information for managing. E.G. Stock inventory system: TPS data & internal sources — MIS — Reports of how products have moved.

Question 10

What is the DSS used for?

Answer 10

The DSS is used to help make decisions but don’t actually make them, they do this by giving outcomes to scenarios. E.G. Demand forecasting system: Internal & external sources — DSS — Effect of fluctuating interest rates on business profitability.

Question 11

What is the EIS used for?

Answer 11

The EIS is used for high level support for unstructured data, often graphical. E.G News retrieval system: Internal & external sources — EIS — Likely impact if oil price rise on sale of sports equipment.

Question 12

In a business hierarchy, what is each type of system used for?

Answer 12

TPS - non management and operational management
MIS- middle management
DSS or EIS - senior management

Question 13

What is the difference between structured and unstructured decisions?

Answer 13

Unstructured: can’t predict – can’t rank – harder to make
Structured: can predict the outcome.