MIS: Business Planning

MIS: Business Planning

MIS Goals and Objectives

• Description: MIS goals and objectives are essential for aligning information systems with the strategic goals of the organization. These goals should consider the management philosophy, policy constraints, business risks, and both internal and external environments.
• Measurability: Objectives must be clearly defined and measurable to track progress and effectiveness. For example, objectives could include providing real-time information on stocks and markets or ensuring that query processing time does not exceed a specified limit, like three seconds.
• Strategic Focus: The primary focus of MIS goals is to support strategic business needs. This includes enhancing decision-making processes, facilitating operational efficiency, and adapting quickly to changes in the business environment.

Strategy for Plan Achievement

• Development Strategy: This involves decisions on how the MIS will operate, such as choosing between online, batch, or real-time processing. Each method has its advantages based on the speed and frequency of data processing required by the organization.
• System Development Strategy: Determines the approach to building the MIS system, balancing operational needs with analytical capabilities. For example, deciding whether to prioritize transactional processing (operational) or analytical processing (strategic decision support).
• Resource Selection: Involves deciding whether to develop the system in-house or use external vendors or off-the-shelf solutions. This decision is influenced by factors like customization needs, cost-effectiveness, and the availability of technical expertise.
• Manpower Requirements: Identifies the necessary skill sets and roles required for developing and maintaining the MIS. This includes analysts who understand business requirements and programmers capable of implementing technical solutions.

Architecture of MIS

• System Structure: Defines the architecture of the MIS, including subsystems for data entry, processing, analysis, modeling, storage, and output. It outlines how these components interact to support information flow and decision-making within the organization.

System Development Schedule

• Planning: Establishes a detailed timeline for the development and implementation of the MIS system. This schedule is critical for aligning development milestones with organizational needs and priorities.

Hardware and Software Plan

• Feasibility Assessment: Evaluates the technical and operational feasibility of hardware and software options. This includes assessing factors like performance requirements, scalability, compatibility with existing systems, and total cost of ownership.
• Procurement Strategy: Outlines how hardware and software will be acquired, considering phased implementation to manage costs and technical risks. This strategy ensures that technological decisions align with financial capabilities and strategic objectives.

Conclusion

MIS planning is integral to ensuring that information systems effectively support organizational goals and operations. It involves setting clear and measurable objectives, making strategic decisions about system development and resource allocation, defining system architecture, establishing development schedules, and planning the acquisition of hardware and software. A well-planned MIS enhances decision-making, improves operational efficiency, and enables organizations to respond quickly to changes in their business environment.