Strategic business advantage from a computer based executive information system

An effective management information system (MIS), in terms of response and robustness, is crucial in an expanding and dynamic organization, where control becomes ever more complex and rapid decision making is the norm. The paper briefly outlines various aspects of formalized MISs and develops arguments for their use in a feasibility study for a company that is considering developing such a system. Emphasis is placed on a `systems´ methodology that must first quantify the existing problem prior to `simplification´, which in itself may realise many benefits. Only later should `automation´ be considered. Such techniques as `input-output´ analysis, `zoom and focus´ diagrams and `information flow charting´ are described