Components Of Information System

An information system is a software, hardware, and telecommunications network that collects relevant data, typically within an organization. Many companies utilize information systems to complete and manage their operations and engage with their customers.

What is an Information System?

An Information system is a combination of hardware and software and telecommunication networks that people build to collect, create, and distribute useful data, typically in an organization. It defines the flow of information within the system. The objective of an information system is to provide appropriate information to the user, gather the data, process the data, and communicate information to the user of the system. 

Components of Information System

1. Computer Hardware

Physical equipment used for input, output and processing. The hardware structure depends upon the type and size of the organization. It consists of an input and an output device, operating system, processor, and media devices. This also includes computer peripheral devices. 

2. Computer Software

The application program used to control and coordinate the hardware components. It is used for analysing and processing of the data. These programs include a set of instruction used for processing information.  Software is further classified into three types: 

• System Software
• Application Software
• Procedures

3. Databases

Data are the raw facts and figures that are unorganized that are later processed to generate information. Softwares are used for organizing and serving data to the user, managing physical storage of media and virtual resources. As the hardware can't work without software the same as software needs data for processing. Data are managed using Database management system. Database software is used for efficient access for required data, and to manage knowledge bases. 

4. Network

• Networks resources refer to the telecommunication networks like the intranet, extranet and the internet.
• These resources facilitate the flow of information in the organization.
• Networks consists of both the physical devices such as networks cards, routers, hubs and cables and software such as operating systems, web servers, data servers and application servers.
• Telecommunications networks consist of computers, communications processors, and other devices interconnected by communications media and controlled by software.
• Networks include communication media, and Network Support.

5. Human Resources

It is associated with the manpower required to run and manage the system. People are the end user of the information system, end-user use information produced for their own purpose, the main purpose of the information system is to benefit the end user. The end user can be accountants, engineers, salespersons, customers, clerks, or managers etc. People are also responsible to develop and operate information systems. They include systems analysts, computer operators, programmers, and other clerical IS personnel, and managerial techniques.

Types of Information Systems

• Operations Support Systems: This type of information system is primarily designed to assist a certain business process.
• Management Information Systems: Management information systems (MIS) are computerized systems that gather, store, process and display data that help in making decisions for management.
• Decision Support Systems: Decision support systems enable an organization to make decisions with regard to its operations. It can be employed in both fully automated and human-operated systems. However, for optimal efficiency, a combination of human and computer-operated devices is advised.
• Executive Information Systems: The final type of management support system is the executive support system (EIS). They assist in making senior-level choices for an organization.

How does an Information System Work?

• Input: The system takes data and information from a variety of sources, including sensors, keyboards, scanners, and databases.
• Processing: The system converts raw data into useful information using a variety of techniques such as sorting, classifying, calculating, analyzing, and synthesizing.
• Storage: The system stores the processed data in a structured and safe manner, such as in a database, file system, or cloud storage.
• Output: The system displays information to users such as reports, graphs, charts, or dashboards.
• Feedback: The system requests feedback from users and other stakeholders to assess its effectiveness and enhance its design and functioning.

Facts of Information Systems

• Necessary for Business Growth
• Better Data Storage and Success.
• Improved Decision Making