Information Systems and Organizational Departments
The technology and information systems of today have penetrated every aspect of business and personal life. In one’s personal life individuals use personal computers, cell phones, and other electronic devices to store and carry personal information. In the business world, information systems have become essential to the smooth, ceaseless operations associated with business. Regardless of the department, one works in accounting, marketing or human resources, understanding and using information systems properly is essential to one’s personal and business success.
The information systems used in accounting are a complex combination of modern technology and traditional accounting restraints used to provide the necessary financial information to manage an organization. Benefits of computerized information systems in accounting include speed, and accuracy. However, the system also possesses disadvantages including less documentation, and complicating the process of determining where errors occur (Grudinsku & Burch, 1989, p. 325). The primary components of accounting information systems include input devices, processing, and output devices. Common input devices include computers, scanning devices, and data entry. When working with accounting information the “double entry” model of the fifteenth century is still in use today. Typical output devises include printers, computer monitors, and electronic communication devices. Together these devices are used to manage and track debt collection, finances, and analyze profit, and loss within a business.
In the marketing department information, systems consist of people, equipment, scanners, surveys and procedures that a business uses to organize, and assess information needed to make accurate marketing decisions. In marketing information is the key to success. By monitoring the purchasing habits of consumers, a marketing team can determine if there is a direct correlation between slumping sales and consumer purchases. Once the issue is determined, the marketing team can make the necessary adjustments to improve the companies’ profit margin (Armstrong & Kotler, 2007, p. 210).
As with any area working as a Personnel manager requires knowledge of certain information systems. The Information system used in human resources or (HRIS) are used for payroll, managing employee information, reporting employee information, documenting employee handbooks, benefits administration, integrating all company financial software, managing resume’s, scheduling and keeping track of all applicant information. Without the human resources, information system large companies would not be able to accurately and efficiently track and monitor all aspects of an employees work history. A few situations in which this information can be crucial occur when an individual is retiring, applying for health insurance, or filing a workmen’s compensation claim.
In the business world, information systems have become essential to the smooth, ceaseless operations associated with business. Regardless of an individual’s chosen occupation, knowledge of information systems is critical to one’s business success. References
Armstrong, & Kotler, (2007). Marketing an Introduction (8th ed.). Upper Saddle River, New Jersey: Pearson Education.
Grudinsku, G., & Burch, J. (1989). Information Systems Theory and Practice (5th ed.). USA: John Wiley and Sons Inc.