ABSTRACT
An information system collects, processes, stores, analyses and disseminates information for a specific purpose. At its simplest level, an information system processes a set of inputs (like data and instructions) and produces a variety of outputs (like reports and calculations) within a given environment. This chapter sets out to explore the generic types of information systems that are used for storing and processing information. To begin with, it describes the important role played by databases, as arguably the single most significant component in most information systems. This is followed by a breakdown of the generic types of information systems that can be identified in virtually all organizations. System classifications are derived from their various attributes, such as organizational purpose and value, and the nature of the business processes they support.
