$1.$ What is an information system? How does it work?

o$$ Define an information system and describe the activities it performs. An information system $($IS$)$ is a set of components that collect, store, and process data to provide information, knowledge, and digital products. The activities it performs include input, processing, output, feedback, and control.

o$$ List and describe the organizational, management, and technology dimensions of information systems.

$$ Organizational Dimension:$$Involves the structure, business processes, politics, culture, and environment of an organization.

$$ Management Dimension:$$Involves leadership, strategy, and management behavior.

$$ Technology Dimension:$$Involves hardware, software, data management technology, and networking$/$telecommunications technology.

o$$ Distinguish between information technology and an information system. Information technology $($IT$)$ refers to the hardware, software, and telecommunications equipment used to manage and communicate information. An information system, on the other hand, includes IT but also encompasses the people and processes involved in managing and using the technology.

o$$ Explain how the Internet and the World Wide Web are related to the other technology components of information systems. The Internet and the World Wide Web are integral parts of the networking and telecommunications technology component, enabling global connectivity and access to information.

o$$ Define complementary assets and describe their relationship to information technology. Complementary assets are additional resources or capabilities that enhance the value of a primary investment, such as IT$.$ They include organizational assets $($e$.$g$.,$ efficient business processes$),$ managerial assets $($e$.$g$.,$ strong leadership$),$ and social assets $($e$.$g$.,$ supportive culture$).$

o$$ Describe the complementary social, managerial, and organizational assets required to optimize returns from information technology investments.

$$ Social Assets:$$Include a supportive culture and strong relationships with external partners.

$$ Managerial Assets:$$Include strong leadership, strategic planning, and management innovation.

$$ Organizational Assets:$$Include efficient business processes, supportive organizational structure, and a focus on continuous improvement.

$2.$ What academic disciplines are used to study information systems and how does each contribute to an understanding of information systems?

o$$ List and describe each discipline that contributes to a technical approach to information systems.

$$ Computer Science:$$Provides the technical foundation for building and understanding software and hardware.

$$ Operations Research:$$Offers techniques for optimizing processes and decision$-$making.

$$ Management Science:$$Focuses on developing models and methods for decision$-$making and problem$-$solving.

o$$ List and describe each discipline that contributes to a behavioral approach to information systems.

$$ Psychology:$$Studies human behavior and cognition, which is crucial for user interface design and user experience.

$$ Sociology:$$Examines the social context and impact of information systems.

$$ Economics:$$Analyzes the economic impacts and cost$-$benefit aspects of information systems.

o$$ Describe the sociotechnical perspective on information systems. The sociotechnical perspective emphasizes the interaction between people and technology in workplaces. It suggests that both social and technical factors must be considered to optimize the performance and effectiveness of information systems.

$3.$ What is the role of the information systems function in a business?

o$$ Describe how the information systems function supports a business. Information systems support businesses by improving efficiency, enabling better decision$-$making, facilitating communication, and providing competitive advantages.

o$$ Describe the services provided by information systems departments. Services include managing IT infrastructure, developing and maintaining applications, ensuring data security, and providing technical support and training.

$4.$ What are business processes? How are they related to information systems?

o$$ Define business processes and describe the role they play in organizations. Business processes are a series of steps or activities that organizations perform to achieve specific goals. They are essential for ensuring efficiency, consistency, and quality in operations.

Explain how information technology and information systems enhance business processes. Information systems enhance business processes by automating tasks, improving data accuracy, enabling real$-$time data access, and facilitating communication and collaboration $$