The Three Levels of Information Systems: A basic comparison

The different types of information systems are divided and classified according to their level in the organization and can be visualized in that of a pyramid model (see illustration).  Each system level focuses on the type of data and how it is to be used within the organization.  Starting with this entry and the next four, these levels will be briefly discussed as to their basic function, some examples of systems and their possible role within the system level.  The levels that will be discussed are, from bottom to top, the Operational level, Managerial level and Strategic level.

The base of the pyramid, the Operational level, the information a system is a Transactional Processing System (TPS) generally focused on data processing and is used by lower level employees as well as some supervisory levels.  At the middle of the pyramid is the Managerial (Tactical) level system which is comprised of Management Information Systems (MIS) and Decision Support Systems (DSS).  These generally focus on gleaning information for short term to medium term projects by evaluating the organizations performance.  Lastly, at the top of the pyramid, the Strategic levels use Executive Support Systems (ESS) and can also be termed Executive Information Systems (EIS).  These are executive and senior management level systems that allow for the analyzation of how the organization is operating giving the users to evaluate the past performance and plan for the future.

The next four entries will go into more detail in each type of system.  Most organizations today utilize at least one of the types of information systems that will be discussed.  You may already recognize some that you use in your current position or even be familiar with others that are also being used.  If you are not currently using any of these, then perhaps you will recognize a need for such a system within your organization.  With thorough research, you will be able to find the system that is best suited to the needs of your organization.  Hopefully the basic information contained within this blog series will assist you in your search.