Information concepts, Information: A quality product classification of the information

-

 1. Information System

An Information System (IS) is a structured system that collects, processes, stores, and disseminates data into meaningful and useful information for its users. It involves various components like hardware, software, data, procedures, and people. The main objectives of an IS are to support decision-making, coordination, control, analysis, and visualization of information within an organization.

2. Management Information System (MIS)

A Management Information System (MIS) is a specific type of Information System designed to provide management-level decision-makers with data and information to support decision-making processes. It collects data from various sources within an organization, processes it into meaningful information, and presents it in a format suitable for managerial decision-making. MIS helps in planning, controlling, and decision-making activities at the management level.

3. Information vs. Data

  • Data: Raw, unorganized facts and figures. Data by itself does not carry meaning or context.
  • Information: Data that has been processed, organized, structured, or presented in a given context to make it meaningful and useful. Information provides insights, context, and relevance for decision-making.

4. Information Hierarchy

  • Data: The basic raw material of information, consisting of unprocessed facts and figures.
  • Information: Data that has been organized and structured into a coherent form that provides meaning and relevance.
  • Knowledge: Information that has been understood and internalized, enabling informed decision-making.
  • Wisdom: The highest level, integrating knowledge and experience to make sound judgments and decisions.

5. Information Continuum

  • Data: Basic facts or pieces of information.
  • Information: Data that has been processed and interpreted to extract meaning.
  • Business Intelligence: Managed information that supports strategic and operational objectives of an organization.

6. Information/Data Collection Techniques

  • Surveys: Questionnaires or interviews to collect data directly from respondents.
  • Secondary Data Sources: Existing records, databases, archives, or literature reviews.
  • Objective Measures: Experimental tests or measurements conducted to gather data.
  • Interviews: Structured questioning of individuals to obtain specific information.

7. Classification by Characteristic

  • Strategic Information: Information used for long-term planning and decision-making, often related to major organizational goals and objectives.
  • Tactical Information: Information used for day-to-day operations and management to control resources and activities.
  • Operational Information: Information used for specific operational tasks and processes within the organization.

8. Classification by Application

  • Planning Information: Information used to establish standards, norms, and specifications within the organization.
  • Control Information: Information used to monitor and regulate activities, ensuring adherence to established standards and objectives.
  • Knowledge Information: Information that represents accumulated knowledge and experience within the organization.
  • Organizational Information: Information related to the organization's environment, culture, and objectives.
  • Functional/Operational Information: Information specific to operational tasks, such as schedules or task assignments.
  • Database Information: Large-scale information storage and retrieval for various organizational purposes, often managed through databases.

These concepts are fundamental in understanding how information is managed, utilized, and leveraged within organizations to support decision-making, improve efficiency, and achieve strategic goals. Each concept plays a crucial role in ensuring that data is transformed into valuable information that drives organizational success.