Why Do Information Systems Fail and Other Questions You May Encounter in Graduate School
Information systems are the fuel that power modern technologies. Because this field covers programming, mobile apps, networks, and database management, there's increased demand for professionals who can manage such systems.
Many aspects of our daily lives are now governed by information systems. For example, companies rely on cloud technologies to streamline their operations and reduce costs. Smart phone users also rely on mobile apps to access critical services such as navigation, mobile payments, communication, and much more. The smooth operation of information systems has become a necessity. This is why when such systems fail, people and businesses end up encountering difficulty in many different ways.
IS, IT, and CS (cybersecurity) professionals help design, maintain, and repair information systems. With a graduate degree in this field, you can gain knowledge and understanding of critical areas such as cloud computing, database management, software design, and mobile technologies.
Understanding information systems
At its core, an information system is a type of software that can organize, analyze and interpret data. Such systems turn raw data into useful forms that can be used by people and businesses. In general, IS professionals are involved in the development and operation of information systems. As the modern world continues to rely on digital solutions, the demand for IS professionals has risen.
Why do information systems fail?
As technology continues to evolve, the term "Information Systems" has also become broad. Indeed, IS no longer refers to just the data and technologies used to produce information. The term now also includes how people, algorithms, company processes, and data interact to solve real world problems.
These complex relationships are one of the primary reasons why information systems fail. If the technologies and people who operate them aren't on the same page, multiple issues are likely to occur and limit the effectiveness of data processing.
Failure in information systems may also occur due to technologies not meeting user expectations. This is often the case in mobile apps, where an app that doesn't respond to user commands is essentially dysfunctional in the eyes of customers. Software crashes are another type of information system failure. When the software is unable to perform as expected, it can't complete critical functions such as processing and storing information. A software crash can be attributed to poor coding techniques, insufficient capacity to handle user traffic, or incompatibility with hardware devices.
There are other common reasons that ultimately result in information system failure. These reasons include:
- Poor planning
- Projects that don't fall within budget
- Unrealistic performance expectations
- Lack of collaboration within teams
The role of IT Professionals in managing Information Systems
As an IS, IT, or CS professional, you'll be at the forefront of planning for such projects and ensuring that they perform as expected. A formal education within this field will prepare you to identify and solve common problems that may affect systems performance.
Information technologies don't only fail because of technical reasons. As explained above, failure also occurs due to poor planning, budgeting, and collaboration. This is why many IS professionals also require interdisciplinary skills. Collaboration, communication, and leadership can help you manage large teams and focus on a specific goal.
A graduate degree in Information Science is one of the best ways of gaining such critical skills. Upon graduation, you should be able to enter the workforce and develop systems that are less likely to run into the problems mentioned above.
Why should you earn a graduate degree in Information Systems?
IS, IT, and CS are dynamic and exciting fields that continue to evolve on a daily basis. As the demand for efficient technologies continues to rise, IS professionals will be needed to develop, manage and repair these systems. A graduate degree in Information Science might equip you with the knowledge and skills that are needed to make modern technologies much more efficient.
The beauty of a Master's Degree in Information Systems is that it suits many different professionals. This educational path could help you join the exciting world of Information Science. You should gain both theoretical and practical skills in computer systems, information processes, and other supporting technologies. And upon graduation, you could begin your career as a cloud computing analyst, security administrator, software engineer, mobile app developer, among others.
Are You Ready to Get Started Today?
Interested in information systems on the graduate level? ECPI University offers a Master of Science Degree in Information Systems at an accelerated pace. For more information on this exciting opportunity, connect with a knowledgeable admissions counselor today.
It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!
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