Information systems components

The Information System

The information system is an interconnected set of modules that work together to collect, store, and transmit data (Galliers, 2014). This machine is made up of five components: hardware (the physical component), software (data coding programs), a database, a network link, and users (people). In accordance with the technical aspect, this paper examines the four main components as well as their significance in the design and installation of the information system.

The Software Component

The software is composed of a series of instructions coded as programs that control the hardware to perform different tasks (Peppard & Ward, 2016). The software decodes the received information then encrypts a response. An excellent example of software is Google Docs. This is a word processing program created to help decode the received documents and also create new ones. Another example is the accounting software developed to track the salaries of all staff within an organization in addition to scheduling the time and amount to be paid. The system software incorporates all associated programs which control the functioning of the computer and the entire system. Therefore, designers of the informational system take note of the software because it is the core foundation of the whole software infrastructure which links and manages all other components like the hardware and network connections.

The Hardware Component

Secondly, the hardware is the tangible component that makes up the computer. For example, the mouse, keypad, monitor. This part is necessary for receiving, processing, and sending data (Peppard & Ward, 2016). Therefore, designers consider this important part because it is the only physical operative component of the informational system.

The Network Connection

Thirdly, the network connection is the means by which the coded data is transmitted from the sender to the recipient and relaying back any response (Galliers, 2014). Further still, the telecommunication system is the particular element that enables users and the devices to communicate effectively. The telephone network is a definite example of a network system (telecommunication) which facilitates efficient voice communication between people over a given distance. On a larger scale, telecommunication systems are used to link inter-organizational communicational channels and the necessary equipment. For example, connecting an organization to a given bank to effect occasional payments to employees.

The Database Component

A database, on the other hand, is a collection of data arranged in a systematic manner that facilitates efficient retrieval at any time (Galliers, 2014). This collection of information can be in various formats including numerals, graphics, audios, printed or a combination, for example, videos. Further still, there are two types of databases which can be in physical (paper/print) or electronic forms. The database can be simply arranged like the alphabetical order of names in the library. Alternatively, it can be a sophisticated database that provides data through a combination of different formats. Examples of databases include the phone book containing contacts, an address book containing addresses of various places or a census bureau data. Developers of the informational system take great consideration when designing a database because it is the central component of data management. Also, it facilitates efficient performance of multiple tasks with ease. A database may use only a single software to store and organize data in bulk.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the information system is designed to collect, organize, store, and communicate information through a comprehensive combination of components (Galliers, 2014). These components include the hardware, software, database, and the network connection. System designers consider every element while designing the system because each has a significant role in the overall operation. For example, the database is the collection and systematic arrangement of data for easy retrieval and use.

References

Galliers, R. D., & Leidner, D. E. (Eds.). (2014). Strategic information management: challenges

and strategies in managing information systems. Routledge.

Peppard, J., & Ward, J. (2016). The strategic management of information systems: Building a

digital strategy. John Wiley & Sons.