Understanding the Four Information System Types Based on Their Sphere of Influence
Introduction
Information systems have become an integral part of every organization, and they are designed with the purpose of managing, processing, and storing data. The classification of information systems is based on their scope of influence, and they can be categorized into four types. This article aims to provide valuable insights into understanding the four information system types based on their sphere of influence.
The Four Information System Types
1. Personal Information Systems
Personal information systems are designed for individual use and are used for managing personal data. Examples of personal information systems include email accounts, calendar apps, and task management tools. These systems are not designed to be used by multiple users and have a limited scope of influence.
2. Workgroup Information Systems
Workgroup information systems are designed for small groups of people who work together regularly. These systems assist in sharing and managing data within a team or department. Examples of workgroup information systems include project management tools, internal communication tools, and document collaboration platforms. The scope of influence of these systems is restricted to the team or department using them.
3. Enterprise Information Systems
Enterprise information systems are designed for use across an entire organization. They are scalable and can handle large amounts of data, and they help to streamline business operations. Examples of enterprise information systems include customer relationship management software, enterprise resource management software, and supply chain management software. The scope of influence of these systems covers the entire organization.
4. Interorganizational Information Systems
Interorganizational information systems are designed for use between different organizations. These systems facilitate communication, data sharing, and collaboration between organizations, and they help to streamline interorganizational business processes. Examples of interorganizational information systems include electronic data interchange systems, vendor-managed inventory systems, and supply chain management systems. The scope of influence of these systems covers multiple organizations.
Examples and Case Studies
To illustrate the different information system types, let’s take the example of an e-commerce business. The business owner may use a personal information system like Trello to manage their tasks and email to communicate with suppliers. The team members responsible for managing inventory and shipping may use workgroup information systems like Google Sheets and Asana to manage inventory and shipping details. The business may use an enterprise information system like Shopify or Magento to manage their website’s e-commerce functionality. The business may also use interorganizational information systems like EDI or vendor-managed inventory systems to manage relationships with suppliers.
Another example is a healthcare organization. The medical staff may use personal information systems like calendars and email to manage appointments and communicate within departments. Workgroup information systems like medical records software and nurse communication tools may help in managing patient data and shift handovers. The organization may use an enterprise information system like hospital management software to manage the entire healthcare organization’s data. Interorganizational information systems may come in handy when exchanging data with another healthcare organization or medical supplier.
Conclusion
Information systems have been classified into four types, based on their scope of influence – personal, workgroup, enterprise, and interorganizational. Understanding these system types and their applications can help organizations make better, informed choices when implementing these systems. By utilizing the right type of system, organizations can improve their workflow, operations, and efficiency.
