Information Systems Proposal

Information Systems Proposal

This paper will propose several types of information systems that would work well for a small business that is being considered by a partner that has limited experience with information systems or technology. Types of information systems will be examined and their benefits and drawbacks. Additionally, the different types and the applications available to small business will be determined. The main types of business information that will be discussed in this paper are the Transaction Processing Systems (TPS), Management Information Systems (MIS), Decisions Support (DSS), and Expert Systems.

Business information management has changed substantially and has evolved to allow small business owners to control daily operational task with personal computer equipment with a variety of software, designed for persons with limited knowledge of business information systems. Business information systems have evolved to enable businesses to use business information software that can be purchase off the shelf, eliminating, and expensive custom designed software. These systems lower IT cost and overhead while increasing profits.

Several business information systems are available to choose from and can be designed to meet a business's specific needs. Transaction processing systems are a basic need for a small business to conduct daily operations. The point of sale (POS) is one such system that can be designed make transactions efficient by collecting and storing sales transactions, generating purchase orders, and providing tracking numbers for individual sales. Data can transfer and used with accounting and inventory control software programs. These systems will follow the transaction from stat point through the completed process and has the capability to capture records and data.

Management Information Systems (MIS) capture the data and generate reports such as performance of an employee or the popularity of a product or service. Management Information Systems store customer information that can be used for marketing, promotions, and can be a means of providing feedback on trends, allowing the business to give the customer a service its deems important.

Decision Support Systems (DSS) analyze information and delivers options from that decisions can be made. These systems gather information from several areas and can capture data stored by the Transaction Processing Systems and Management. This information can include cost of goods, consumer trends within the marketplace. Decision Support Systems will create reports that can help management make better informed decisions.

Expert Systems are similar to Decisions Support Systems in that they gather and analyses information that can be formed into reports. These reports give management the ability to make better informed decisions and make information available those gather data and those needing specific information