Key Ingredients of an Information Management System
System ArchitectureThe starting point of designing an information system is an analysis of the existing hardware. Contrary to what some consultants will have you believe, you do not need to scrap your current system to implement a Management Information System. The basic element of the system architecture is the local area network (LAN). The LAN provides the foundation upon which the information system will be constructed. Centralized, standardized information storage and retrieval systems are built upon the LAN. The LAN makes the information system not only possible, but an efficient information management tool.
Information Procurement
There are two types of information procurement: information that finds you and information that you must actively search for. Time is precious, therefore information that finds you is preferable. The drawback is diminished control over what is considered information. Information extraneous to your needs is distracting and requires energy to ignore. Filtering is imperative.
System Administration
The administration of an Information Management System can it s seem like a daunting task. It doesn't need to be. If the system architecture is designed properly and thorough training is provided for employees, administration will be a minimal and uncomplicated task. With an Information Management System, the tasks generally associated with administration of information: backing up data, purging old data, formatting, storing, distributing and indexing information are significantly automated.
Analysis
Thorough analysis can only occur when relevant, timely data is available to the professional. The interpretation and judgement of data is the function of the Information Professional!! This is the reason we started this adventure in the first place, to free the information professional of the overload and allow their time to be spent analyzing, interpreting, and making decisions.
Distribution
Once completed, decisions, interpretations, and analysis must be distributed throughout the corporation. Traditionally this would entail the printing and distribution of paper, holding of meetings and giving presentations. Within the context of the Information Management System, information distribution can all occur electronically. No paper, copying, or distribution by human resources. Electronic distribution increases the speed, efficiency, availability and accuracy of information dissemination. Information is of no value if it is not available.
Source: Milestones Inc.
 |
Return to Information Overload Contact: Hari Srinivas - hsrinivas@gdrc.org |