THE 7 COMPONENTS OF AN INFORMATION SYSTEM - TECHNOLOGY - 2024

The components of an information system are those that allow the input, processing, output and storage of data that are of general interest or of a particular public.

An information system is made up of a set of elements that work together to achieve a common objective (satisfy a need for information), and are aimed at the use and management of information.

Consequently, they are in charge of collecting, processing, storing and disseminating data (information).

Information systems are made up of hardware, software, data, people, and communication networks.

However, some authors point out some additional components such as processes and peripheral devices.

At present, many companies, organizations and / or institutions have decided to implement the use of information systems, since they facilitate their operation.

Main elements of an information system

To create an information system it is necessary to make all its components work 100 percent, in order to provide complete and reliable information while meeting the needs of users.

Hardware

Hardware is the component of the information system that represents a data input, storage and output technology. That is, they are all the physical devices used to process information.

The hardware in turn is made up of the CPU (Central Processing Unit) and the main memory.

The main memory is the one where the data and programs that will be processed by the CPU are stored. It is made up of RAM and ROM memory.

In the ROM memory are all the programs and data that have not been executed and in the RAM memory are the programs already executed.

The software

The software is made up of the set of programs that make up the operating system and all the programs that are related to data storage and processing.

Accordingly, it is said to be divided into system software and application software.

Peripheral devices

Peripheral devices are all those elements that can be wired or wirelessly connected to the CPU.

They are divided according to their function into storage devices, input devices and output devices.

Storage devices

Storage devices are those that serve to save information. They allow you to create a backup and thus, if necessary, the information on the PC could be erased without concern.

Storage devices also allow you to easily carry information without having to carry your computer. Among them are removable storage drives.

Input devices

Input devices are those that serve both to enter data and to make the computer perform its functions.

Among the input devices are the mouse, the keyboard, the scanner, among others.

Output devices

The output devices are those that are used so that the information is projected outwards. Among them are the printer, the video beam, the monitor, among others.

The data

The data is made up of the record of all the facts that are of interest to the user to whom the information system is directed.

With the data, what is called "information" is created, since it is simply the representation of the properly processed data set.

Communication networks

Communication networks allow teams (that is, computers) to join and share information between them.

This component works thanks to the coordinated work of three of the components of the information system, which are: hardware, software and human resources.

The processes

The processes are the set of steps or tasks carried out in order to achieve the objectives set.

These are specified in writing or through videos. An example of them are the user manuals.

People

They are those that interact daily with the information system. On the one hand there are the operators or specialists in this type of system and on the other hand there are the users.

People are a fundamental component of information systems. Thanks to them, all the components work together.

It also allows feedback, a fundamental aspect to be able to make the necessary improvements and adapt it to the needs of the public.

Influence of software, data and people in information systems

It has previously been said that information systems seek to satisfy the need for information that users have.

This makes them vary according to the target audience. Therefore, it is necessary that the software and the data are commensurate with the user's need.

In this sense, information systems can be classified according to the function they perform in operations support systems and administration support systems.

Each of these systems loads and processes a specific type of data that influences the operation of a company.

Up next, each of the preview are described.

Operations support system

The main function of this system is to facilitate the activity of an organization or institution, since it allows the database to be updated, facilitates commercial transactions and internal and external communications of the company.

Administration support system

This type of system provides information that can influence the decision-making of the managers or administrators of a company.

In this type of system, the data varies according to the needs of each company.

References

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