SYSTEM

SYSTEM

Derived from Greek word 'Systema'. Means an organised relationship among

functional units or components.

A group of interdependent items that interact regularly to perform a task.

A computer system refers to the hardware and software components that run a computer or computers.

Definition

A system is an orderly grouping of interdependent components linked together according to a plan to achieve a specific objective.

System has 3 basic implications- A predetermined objective- Interelationship and interdependence

among the components.- Objectives of the organisation have a higher

priority than that of components.

SYSTEM

ProcessingInput Output

Characteristics of a system

Organised : Well structured arrangement of components

Interaction:Manner in which each component interact with each other

Interdependence:Dependence of one subsystem on one or more subsystems

Integration: Functional integrity of the subcomponents and the system as a whole

Central Objective:Goal of the organization

Elements of a system Inputs and Outputs

Constraint

Processors

Control

Feedback

Environment Boundaries and Interface

Types of System

A dynamic system is a system that is constantly changing, like the human body system.

A static system is a system in which there is no change, like the solar system.

Dynamic systems tend to become static or attain a state of equilibrium.

e.g. if a car is assumed to be a dynamic system, then it requires fuel to continue moving forward or else it would come to a stop and become static.

Open Systems

Interaction across boundaries

Recieves and delivers input and output to the outside world.

Adapts the changing demands of the user.

Characteristics of open systems

Input from outside

Entropy

Process output to outside world

Equifinality

CLOSED SYSTEM

Isolated from environmental influences

Completely closed system is rare

Logical and Physical system description

Logical system descriptionDescription of a system that focuses on the system

function and purpose without regard to how the system will physically implemented

Physical system descriptionDescription of a system that focuses on the how

the system will be materially constructed

INFORMATION SYSTEMS

Information system is an organised combination of people, hardware,software, communication, networks and data resources that collects, transforms and disseminates information in an organisation.

COMPONENTS OF INFORMATION SYSTEMS

DATA

PEOPLE

HARDWARE

SOFTWARE

NETWORKS

TYPES OF INFORMATION SYSTEM

FORMAL INFORMATION SYSTEM

INFORMAL INFORMATION SYSTEM

COMPUTER BASED INFORMATION SYSTEM

FORMAL INFORMATION SYSTEM

Based on an organisation chart

There will be a pattern of authority, communication and work flow.

Information is in the form of reports, instructions, memos.

INFORMAL INFORMATION SYSTEM

Designed to achieve company goal

Employee based system

COMPUTER BASED SYSTEM

Depends on computer system for business handling and problem solving

Structured problem -Definite format, definite solution

ROLE OF INFORMATION SYSTEM

Support of business operations

Support of managerial decision making

Support of Strategic competitive advantage

INFORMATION SYSTEM ACTIVITIES

Input of data resourcesData entry activitiesRecording and editing of data

Processing of data into informationCalculating, comparing, sorting, classifying, summarizing

Output of information productsIn the form of messages,reports,forms, graphs etc

Storage of data resourcesBasic system component of information systems.Stored data in the form of records, files databases .

Control of System performanceMonitoring and evaluating the feedback.