Approaches
·
Study of information systems is a
multidisciplinary field.
·
In general, the field can be divided into
technical and behavioral approaches.
·
Information systems are sociotechnical systems.
Though they are composed of machines, devices, and “hard” physical technology,
they require substantial social, organizational, and intellectual investments
to make them work properly.
·
Technical approach:
o
The technical approach to information systems
emphasizes mathematically based models to study information systems, as well as
the physical technology and formal capabilities of these systems. The
disciplines that contribute to the technical approach are computer science,
management science, and operations research.
o
Computer science is concerned with establishing
theories of computability, methods of computation, and methods of efficient
data storage and access. Management science emphasizes the development of
models for decision-making and management practices. Operations research
focuses on mathematical techniques for optimizing selected parameters of
organizations, such as transportation, inventory control, and transaction
costs.
·
Behavioral approach:
o
Issues such as strategic business integration,
design, implementation, utilization, and management cannot be explored usefully
with the models used in the technical approach. Other behavioral disciplines
contribute important concepts and methods.
o
For instance, sociologists study information
systems with an eye toward how groups and organizations shape the development
of systems and also how systems affect individuals, groups, and organizations.
Psychologists study information systems with an interest in how human decision
makers perceive and use formal information. Economists study information
systems with an interest in what impact systems have on control and cost
structures within the firm and within markets.
o
The behavioral approach does not ignore
technology. Indeed, information systems technology is often the stimulus for a
behavioral problem or issue. But the focus of this approach is generally not on
technical solutions. Instead, it concentrates on changes in attitudes,
management and organizational policy, and behavior.
·
Sociotechnical approach
o
In this view, optimal organizational performance
is achieved by jointly optimizing both the social and technical systems used in
production.
o
Adopting a sociotechnical systems perspective
helps to avoid a purely technological approach to information systems. For
instance, the fact that information technology is rapidly declining in cost and
growing in power does not necessarily or easily translate into productivity
enhancement or bottom-line profits. The fact that a firm has recently installed
an enterprise-wide financial reporting system does not necessarily mean that it
will be used or used effectively. Likewise, the fact that a firm has recently
introduced new business procedures and processes does not necessarily mean
employees will be more productive in the absence of investments in new
information systems to enable those processes.
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