What is Management Information Systems (MIS)?

Up until this very day there is no universally accepted definition for the term Management Information Systems (MIS). It “has become almost synonymous with computer based data processing” (Davis, G & Olson, M, 1984, p5-6). MIS is usually used within large organisations and is generally understood as an integrated, user-machine system that converts data from internal and external sources into information that provides a full range of functions. These functions are associated with the design, development, enhancement and support of the information systems communications, hardware and software applications. It will communicate this information to managers at all levels, in all functions, to enable them to make timely and effective decisions for planning, directing and controlling the activities for which they are responsible. An organisation may have dozens of different information systems, some of which are useful for day-to-day operational decisions, and some of which are used in making tactical and strategic decisions. MIS is responsible for managing and administrating information as well as developing and managing all networking and computer resources. According to Jon Sutherland

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Therefore the quality of an MIS depends on the design and what is required, which is awareness and understanding of the key principles and functions. In a recent survey, by Heathcote (1998), statistics show that “Both within the UK & USA existing MIS, often using expensive, advanced equipment, have had relatively little success in providing management with the information it needs”. (1994) “it is a valuable aspect of every business, as it looks at what types of computer systems are needed and adapts them for their requirements”.

To be successful an MIS must be designed and operated with some due regard to the organisational and behavioural principles as well as the technical factors.

Tasks, Benefits And Key Features

An MIS is used for a variety of purposes and tasks. MIS revolves around the fact that information and knowledge are one of the most valuable business assets. There are numerous factors and knowledge requirements which influence the structure and scope of an organisations MIS, they are Planning Requirements, External Environmental Influences, Decision Making Requirements, Primary Functions & Size (of a organisation), Control Structures, Legal Requirements, Use of Information Technology, Management Style and Organisational Structure.

Failures/Problems With MIS

Management Information Systems are generally extremely complex and implementation tends to involve dozens of people from both within and outside the organisation. The types of problems that can occur are as follows:

– Lack of management involved with the design;

– Lack of management knowledge of ICT systems and there capabilities;

– Undue concentration on low-level data processing;

– Inadequate analysis;

– Inappropriate emphasis of the computer system;

– Lack of team work;

– Lack of management support;

– Cost of maintenance;

– Lack of professional standards. It is also costly to set up and maintain although in the long run it is feasible. Other tasks include maintaining a log of assets on all computer systems, performing routine maintenance on both hardware and software, keeping all operating systems and programs updated with the latest software, regular data back up procedures, network administrative functions such as user accounts, maintaining security of systems etc…

There are many benefits and characteristics for an organisation because the MIS is useful at every level within the organisation. This is so that the design, implementation and operation of the MIS is the result of informed decisions and judgements rather than haphazard development without real regard to organisational requirements. The key features are:

– Producing information of a sophisticated nature;

– Providing information at a crucial period of decision making;

– Aiding in the decision making process;

– Processing information stored within databases. This means that there needs to be a close collaboration between the programmers and the managers who need to access the information. Here are some of them:

– It is flexible, allowing many ways of analysing data and evaluating information;

– It is capable of supporting a range of skills and knowledge;

– If a task is interrupted, for whatever reason, it can be resumed at a later time;

– It is able to capture and report specific information rather than unnecessary information overload.

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Approximate Word count = 876
Approximate Pages = 4 (250 words per page double spaced)

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