MIS Essentials: A Comprehensive Guide to Business Systems

This module examines how modern information and communication technologies (ICTs) are transforming our world and analyzes what Management Information Systems (MISs) are and how they fit within the overall ICTs environment. Students will discuss how companies obtain their MISs, by either purchasing ready-made packages or by bespoke development, and explore the alternative offered by open systems.

This module discusses how the trend towards globalization and continuous connectivity drives the need for distributed MISs supported by Telecommunication Networks. Students will explore the various types of networks and distributed MISs architectures, understanding how modern businesses operate across multiple locations and platforms.

This module explores data as the raw material upon which information is built, discussing the role played by data and data structure in MISs. Students will analyze Database Management Systems used to manage data and explore the fast-evolving landscape of Big Data, understanding how organizations collect, store, and process vast amounts of information.

This module introduces students to Integrated Information Systems as the "top predators" at the apex of the MIS world. Students will learn about Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems and their relationship with Integrated Business Processes, understanding how major systems like SAP, Oracle, and Microsoft Dynamics integrate business operations.

This module addresses the major challenges of implementing an ERP system, which generally requires either modifying current business practices through Business Process Reengineering or customizing the ERP system. Students will discuss the implications and challenges of these implementation approaches.

This final module turns attention from day-to-day business operations to the role played by MISs in information-driven decision-making. Students will explore Decision Support Systems (DSSs) and the analytics used in Big Data environments, concluding with insights about the future of MIS in organizational decision-making.