Management Information Systems
The data that supports an organization's decision-making process has to be stored and maintained in the management information system (MIS). The MIS is not just one system but a collection of systems designed to support various organizational functions. This article explores the different types of MIS systems and the level of decision-making each supports. Focus on the Transaction Process Systems diagram and note how the various information systems (pink boxes) inform decisions at different levels in the organization.
Summary of Learning Outcomes
- What types of systems make up a typical company's management information system?
A management information system consists of a transaction processing system, management support systems, and an office automation system. The transaction processing system collects and organizes operational data on the firm's activities. Management support systems help managers make better decisions. They include an information-reporting system that provides information based on the data collected by the TPS to the managers who need it; decision support systems that use models to assist in answering "what if" types of questions; and expert systems that give managers advice similar to what they would get from a human consultant. Executive information systems are customized to the needs of top management.