A2 Module 4 Information: Management and Manipulation

1.Organisational Structure Understand the basic concepts of organisational structure as they impact on/affect ICT systems.

2.Information Systems and Organisations: Explains the difference between an information system and a data processing system. We consider all aspects of management information systems including what they are, what they are for, their development and criteria leading to their success or failure.

3.Corporate Information Systems Strategy: This topic considers the use of information systems within organisations. We think about some key factors influencing an information system within an organisation: organisation and functions of management, methods for planning and decision-making, legal and audit requirement, general organisation structure, responsibility for the information system within an organisation, information flow, hardware and software, standards and behavioural factors, e.g. personalities, motivation, ability to adapt to change.

4.Information and Data: This looks at some factors affecting accuracy of data entry and looks at the characteristics of management information and what makes it relevant.

5.The Management of Change: The introduction or development of an information system will result in change which must be managed. Changes could occur in relation to re-skilling, attitude, organisational structure, employment pattern and conditions, internal procedures.

6.Legal Aspects Is about the need for a corporate information system security policy and the rôle it would fill within an organisation. We also consider Audit requirements, Disaster recovery management and Legislation.

7.User Support Considers ways of providing support and training

8.Project Management and Effective ICT Teams Understand why projects are often sub-divided into tasks and allocated to teams. It also considers what makes a good team.

9.Information and the Professional: Discusses the social, moral and ethical issues associated with the introduction and use of information and communication technology systems, which affect a professional working within the industry. The topic also considers Employee codes of practice