Information system structure

Question 1

What is a open system ?
Characteristics
Advantages
Disadvantages

Answer 1

• Is one that accepts input from external sources, and produces outputs.
• It allows free exchange and flow of info and data, between departments – external environ. It can interact w other systems to exchange info.
• Any system that you can access via web = open source. E.g: online shopping
• two systems working together to communicate

Question 2

Advantages & Disadvantages of a open system

Answer 2

• Everyone can use it, accessible from anywhere by anyone with authority, share it easily, kept up to date w the firm, reduction of cost, available 24/7
• Might requires a valid username/password, relying on external services (server down), requires internet access, no security (viruses & hacking)

Question 3

What is a closed system ?

Characteristics

Answer 3

• is one which doesn’t interact OR exchange data w the outside world. It’s a system where you have to be on a physical network in a certain location. It has no external input OR added info. The system works well to meet its intended purpose. E.g: SIMS is software only available and used in school, permitted access to staff only.
• one system, info stored within the software system, can be transferred.

Question 4

Advantages & Disadvantages of a closed system

Answer 4

• protects personal info, secure, protected, system functions controlled, independent, info can be transferred but not shared
• not accessible from anywhere, limited to one location, has one purpose, costly when setting up w equipment (servers).