Discussion Question 1: Information Systems vs. Information Technology

The terms "information system" (IS) and "information technology" (IT) are sometimes used interchangeably, but they are not the same. It is important for your professional credibility to understand the difference and to use the terms appropriately.

Summarize the differences between an IS and IT.

Provide an example of an IS and IT from your personal or professional experience and explain your example.Example: Tickets are scanned as people enter the state fair.

The ticket scanners are information technology components. They are input devices that gather information about the redeemed ticket.

They are also output devices as they confirm the validity of the ticket.The software that gathers and stores the redeemed ticket information is part of the information system used to track data related to attendance and ticket sales sources.

Discussion Question 2: Access to Knowledge is Power

Information technology has advanced to the point where we can almost literally "never be out of touch" with data, information, and other people. Almost instant access can be a benefit to those working with and using the information.

Select one information system in use at an organization with which you are familiar (e.g., work, library, school, government agency, or community organization).

Explain its importance and benefits to the organization.Example: A community food pantry tracks donations, dispersals, and inventory at multiple locations throughout the community.

The information system provides information about high-use, excess inventory, and low inventory, so the coordinators can move inventory to where it is needed.

This enables the organization to serve the most community members possible and reduce waste from unused inventory at lower-volume sites.