Information systems are the driving force behind smart, data-driven business decisions. By processing and analyzing large data sets, organizations can uncover hidden problems and improve efficiency. Without them, businesses would find themselves trapped in cycles of inefficiency and poor results.
The Emporia State University online Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT) and Master of Business Administration (MBA) Dual Degree program prepares students to harness the power of information systems. Through courses like Information Systems for Managerial Decisions and Systems Analysis and Design, students build the skills necessary for success in a networked business environment.
What Are Business Management Information Systems?
Business management information systems (MIS) encompass the tools and technologies organizations use to collect, manage, and analyze data. Businesses use them to make informed decisions to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and boost profitability. Whether analyzing sales data or automating internal processes, MIS ensure every decision is driven by accurate data rather than guesswork.
The uses of information systems in business are virtually limitless. From human resources to financial management to marketing to competitive analysis, they provide critical insights that enhance every aspect of a company’s operations. Imagine being able to identify inefficiencies in your supply chain or predict market trends with data-backed confidence. Information systems allow businesses to do just that, streamlining processes and providing a competitive edge.
There are several types of MIS. Expert systems use artificial intelligence to simulate human decision-making, solving problems that normally require input from a subject matter expert. Office automation systems streamline routine tasks, enabling teams to focus on more strategic priorities. Process control systems ensure that products meet quality standards by adjusting processes in real time based on sensor data.
These systems have five essential components: hardware, software, data, telecommunications, and people. Hardware includes physical devices like computers, smartphones, and servers that make data collection and management possible. Software powers these devices, with system software managing the core functions and application software handling specific tasks. Data is the fuel that drives decision-making, while telecommunications allow for seamless data sharing between devices. Finally, human expertise remains crucial for interpreting and applying the insights generated by these systems.
How Do These Systems Improve Business Decisions?
MIS greatly enhance business decision-making by providing accurate, real-time information and performing critical analysis. They organize raw data from company operations into useful formats. By structuring company data into insightful reports, MIS enables decision-makers to base their choices on real-time data from sales, expenses, and the workforce, which offers clear guidance for strategic actions.
Using MIS allows businesses to gain a deeper understanding of their operations by transforming raw data into actionable insights. For example, a manager needing to evaluate profit trends can quickly generate accurate reports. Some MIS tools enable decision-makers to run “what-if” scenarios, testing the potential outcomes of different decisions by adjusting variables like staff levels or marketing budgets. These scenarios provide valuable foresight into how various factors might affect performance.
The ability to project future outcomes is another key function of MIS. These systems often include trend analysis tools or provide the data needed to carry out such analyses manually. By comparing current operational data with projected results, businesses can adapt their strategies and goals to better align with expected outcomes. This ongoing analysis also allows for continuous evaluation of the decisions’ effectiveness.
Identify and Address Issues With Systems Analysis
Systems analysis plays a crucial role in ensuring that an organization’s technology works efficiently and meets user expectations. By dissecting a system into components, analysts can identify flaws in design, inefficiencies in operation, and potential user experience issues.
This methodical review not only highlights critical errors — such as bugs in the code or performance bottlenecks — but also offers solutions that align with the system’s goals. Through targeted improvements, businesses can improve overall usability and ensure their technological infrastructure supports long-term growth and success.
Gain Key Information Technology Skills for Driving Better Business Decisions
Earning an MSIT and MBA dual degree from Emporia State provides the ideal combination of technology expertise and business acumen to drive better business decisions. This program equips professionals with the knowledge to manage and apply cutting-edge technologies while integrating business strategies that impact organizational success. With a solid foundation in both fields, graduates offer employers enhanced decision-making skills and the ability to streamline processes for maximum efficiency.
Students gain access to a rich curriculum that spans technical and managerial training, offering practical experience in real-world business cases. From mastering project management software to honing skills in programming languages, this dual degree positions graduates for leadership roles that demand both IT and business expertise, opening doors to higher-paying, senior-level opportunities across industries.
Learn more about Emporia State University’s online Master of Science in Information Technology and Master of Business Administration Dual Degree program.
