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Management Information Systems (MIS) are information systems, typically computer-based, that are used within an organization. WordNet describes an information system as "a system consisting of the network of all communication channels used within an organization". A management information system may also be defined as "a system that collects and processes data (information) and provides it to managers at all levels who use it for decision making, planning, program implementation, and control." An information system is comprised of all the components that collect, manipulate, and disseminate data or information. It usually includes hardware, software, people, communications systems such as telephone lines, and the data itself. The activities involved include inputting data, processing of data into information, storage of data and information, and the production of outputs such as management reports.
As an area of study it is commonly referred to as information technology management. The study of information systems is usually a commerce and business administration discipline, and frequently involves software engineering, but also distinguishes itself by concentrating on the integration of computer systems with the aims of the organization. The area of study should not be confused with Computer Science which is more theoretical and mathematical in nature or with Computer Engineering which is more engineering.
In business, information systems support business processes and operations, decision-making, and competitive strategies.
Contents
1 The functional support role
2 The decision support role
3 The strategic support role
4 The performance monitoring role
5 MIS as an elastic anomoly
6 Historical development
7 Some currently well-known programs in information systems
8 Associations and groups
9 Sources of information on MIS
10 See also