ABSTRACT
This chapter considers information systems that specifically support knowledge cycles within organisations and how these can be used to inform management decision making. It explores methods for the sharing of knowledge and the construction of social networks. The purpose of an information system (IS) is to manage the information asset and to support the decision-making process that drives organisations. The basic functions of the IS are to collect, store, process and disseminate information. The main purpose of the transactional processing system (TPS) is to capture data generated by operational processes. Transactional processing systems are, therefore, the backbone of an organisation's IS. They are responsible for the input and processing of fundamental data relating to the organisation's operation. The chapter shows how people can use databases and networks to create an information infrastructure that is robust and adds real value to the organisation. People concern themselves with the functionality of technologies.
