Information Systems for Management

Description

A significant trend in modern management is the growing importance of information systems. Information systems now play critical roles in organisations, both operationally and often strategically, becoming an essential ingredient of competitiveness. The success of companies such as Tesco, Dell, Johnson & Johnson, Amazon, American Airlines and Nordea Bank could not have been achieved without the strategic use of information technology. Globalization, lean-manufacturing, mass customization, business process re-engineering, e-commerce, and mobile workforces represent just a few of the trends in business practice either catalyzed or enabled by developments in information and communications technologies.  Consequently, every manager needs a basic “literacy” in information systems.  This course is intended to equip the general manager with sufficient knowledge to be an active and informed participant in organizational decisions regarding practices and technologies for information management. It aims to clarify and focus intellectual and practical skills and furnish analytical tools and perspectives, providing a sound basis for strategic information systems decisions.

Learning objectives

Subject specific skills:

·        Understand and explain the role of IS in a range of contextual settings

·        Recognise the strategic importance of IS to the success of the organisation

·        Appreciate the changing nature of information systems and the importance of a variety of information technologies to IS provision

·        Understand the impact of the Internet and e-business on organisations and management

·        Understand the role of information systems in enhancing business processes and decision-making across the enterprise

·        Understand the fundamentals of building and managing information systems in organisations

·        Apply knowledge relating to specialist information systems functions in both domestic and international contexts

·        Utilise analytical tools, and understand different information systems perspectives which will provide a sound basis for strategic IS decisions

Learning outcomes

·        Critical thinking and creativity: managing creative processes in self and others; organising thoughts, analysis, synthesis, critical appraisal. This includes the capability to identify assumptions, evaluate statements in terms of evidence, detect false logic or reasoning, identify implicit values, define terms adequately and generalise appropriately

·        Problem solving and decision making: establishing criteria, using appropriate decision techniques including identifying, formulating and solving business problems; the ability to create, identify and evaluate options; the ability to implement and review decisions

·        Information and knowledge: scanning and organising data, abstracting meaning from information and sharing knowledge

·        Effective use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT); capacity to learn and evaluate new technologies

·        Two-way communication: listening, negotiating and persuading or influencing others; oral and written communication, using a range of media, including the preparation of business reports

·        Effective performance within a team environment and the ability to recognise and utilise individuals’ contributions; in-group processes; team selection, delegation, development and management

·        Ability to conduct research into issues involving information systems or management in organisations

  • Learning through reflection on practice and experience

Please note: This information is subject to review and change without notice.