Information Systems
An information system can be defined as set of coordinated network of components, which act together towards producing, distributing and or processing information. An important characteristic of computer-based information systems information is precision, which may not apply to other types.
A degree in information systems often includes courses in:
- Information Theory
- Foundations of Management
- Social Science
- Information Technology
- Careers in information systems can include a variety of fields, such as actuarial sciences, analytics and programming, communications, computer security and auditing.
Information Technology
Information technology can be broadly defined as integration of computer with telecommunication equipment for storing, retrieving, manipulating and storage of data. According to Information Technology Association of America, information technology is defined as "the study, design, development, application, implementation, support or management of computer-based information systems."
A career in information technology often requires a degree in computer or information science and can offer several career paths, such as cybersecurity, network or database administration, infrastructure management, business intelligence or enterprise resource planning, computer programming and software development.
Degree programs in information technology typically include courses in:
- Mathematics
- Database Design
- Computer Science and Forensics
- Programming Languages
Information systems and information technology are growing fields that offer a variety of job options and long-term professional growth. Although these fields are related, individuals who are interested in a technology-related career should understand the differences in order to select educational programs that will prepare them for a career that best matches their skills, interests and goals.
Comparison of Information System and Information Technology
Information system and information technology are similar in many ways but at the same time they are different. Following are some aspects about information system as well as information technology.
- Origin: Information systems have been in existence since pre-mechanical era in form of books, drawings, etc. However, the origin of information technology is mostly associated with invention of computers.
- Development: Information systems have undergone great deal of evolution, i.e. from manual record keeping to the current cloud storage system. Similarly, information technology is seeing constant changes with evermore faster processor and constantly shrinking size of storage devices.
- Business Application: Businesses have been using information systems for example in form of manual books of accounts to modern TALLY. The mode of communication has also gone under big change, for example, from a letter to email. Information technology has helped drive efficiency across organization with improved productivity and precision manufacturing.