WHAT ARE INFORMATION SYSTEMS?
An information system (IS) is a computerized system that processes data (facts) and produces information. This process is defined as an information processing cycle (IPC). The information processing cycle consists of four operations: input, process, output, and storage. Raw data retrieved from the environment and delivered to the computer is called input. After the computer receives data from the input device, it will manipulate, refine, and process the data to produce useful information for users. This step is called processing. After data has been refined and manipulated into useful information, it is displayed to the end users as output. Finally, the information needs to be stored for future uses. All four processes make up the information processing cycle. Input consists of raw facts, while information is a collection of facts organized or processed ... read full excerpt from The Vest Pocket Guide to Information Technology, 2nd Edition ebook
