Organizational systems view: within a firm, a computer belongs to which system category under the MIS framework?

Introduction / Context: MIS literature distinguishes between the physical system (tangible resources like hardware, people, and facilities) and the conceptual system (policies, procedures, data definitions, information flows). This question asks where a computer fits in that taxonomy.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• A “computer” is a tangible asset: CPU, memory, storage, and peripherals.
• Conceptual elements are intangible: rules, models, and processes.
• We classify by the dominant characteristic.

Concept / Approach: A computer is a physical resource that enables information processing. While it executes conceptual rules via software, its classification as an object is physical. Therefore, under MIS system categories, it belongs to the physical system of the firm.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check: Asset registers and ITIL configuration management treat computers as physical configuration items; this aligns with the physical classification.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Common Pitfalls: Confusing the use of a computer to implement conceptual rules with the classification of the device itself.

Final Answer: physical system