In information systems, when we integrate hardware, software, people, procedures, and data, what complete solution do we create for an organization's decision-making and operations?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: information system

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
An organization does not achieve business outcomes with technology alone. Sustainable results come from a coherent blend of technology, processes, data, and human roles. This blended solution has a well-established name in Management Information Systems (MIS) and enterprise computing.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Elements: hardware, software, people, procedures, and data.
  • Objective: support operations, management, and decision-making.
  • The question asks for the holistic solution formed by combining all elements.


Concept / Approach:
When these elements are aligned to collect, process, store, and disseminate information, the result is an information system. Hardware executes, software instructs, data informs, procedures standardize, and people govern and use the system. Together they enable transaction processing, analytics, control, and strategic insight. The term is broader than a single application or tool; it describes the socio-technical system as a whole.



Step-by-Step Solution:

Recognize the listed elements as the canonical five components taught in MIS. Determine the collective outcome of integrating all five: an information system. Eliminate distractors that name a subset (people) or UI artifacts (icons) or modes (on-line). Select the term that encompasses the full socio-technical solution.


Verification / Alternative check:
Standard MIS frameworks define an information system as people + processes + technology + data, orchestrated to produce actionable information and support decisions. Examples include ERP, CRM, and BI ecosystems.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • On-line platform: Describes access mode, not the complete system.
  • Icons: A user-interface element, not a system.
  • People: A critical component but not the integrated solution.
  • None of the above: Incorrect because “information system” is the accepted term.


Common Pitfalls:
Equating software alone with the system; forgetting procedures and governance; underestimating the role of data quality and user training.



Final Answer:
information system

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