An information system (IS) is an organized, sociotechnical system designed to collect, process, store, and distribute information to support decision- making, coordination, control, analysis, and visualization in an organization or society. It integrates several key components: hardware (physical devices), software (programs and instructions), data (raw facts), procedures (rules and policies), people (users and operators), and often communication networks like the internet
. Information systems are not just about technology; they also involve people and processes interacting with technology to achieve business or organizational goals. They help manage operations, interact with customers and suppliers, and support strategic decision-making. Examples include systems used by companies like Amazon or Google to manage transactions, supply chains, and customer relations
. The core functions of an information system typically include:
- Input : Collecting raw data from various sources.
- Processing : Converting raw data into meaningful information through sorting, analyzing, and organizing.
- Storage : Saving data and information in databases or other storage media.
- Output : Delivering processed information to users or other systems.
- Feedback : Using output to refine input and processing for continuous improvement
In summary, an information system is a comprehensive framework combining technology, people, and procedures to transform data into useful information that supports organizational activities and decision-making