TPS – Transaction Processing Systems

"Computerized system that performs and records the daily routine transactions necessary to conduct the business." (Laudon & Laudon, 1998, p. G14) These systems serve the supervisory level of the organization.

MIS – Management Information Systems

"Information system … that serves the functions of planning, controlling, and decision making by providing routine summary and exception reports." (Laudon & Laudon, 1998, p. G8) These systems serve middle management and can include on demand "standard" reports. MIS systems normally draw data from TPS.

ESS – Executive Support Systems

"Information system … designed to address unstructured decision making through advanced graphics and communications." (Laudon & Laudon, 1998, p. G5) These systems serve the executive level of the organization and include such capabilities as drill down (to TPS and MIS systems) and comparison of internal data (from MIS) with external benchmarks.

OAS – Office Automation Systems

"Computer system, such as word processing, electronic mail system, and scheduling system, that is designed to increase the productivity of data workers in the office." (Laudon & Laudon, 1998, p. G9) Used by all levels in the organization. For examples see Office Automation Systems

DSS – Decision Support Systems

" Information system … that combines data, analytical tools, and models to support semistructured and unstructured decision making. (Laudon & Laudon, 1998, p. G4) Primary focus is on semistructured decision making with models that either make a preliminary recommendation or project "what if" scenarios. Used by all levels in the organization. DSS systems may be stand-alone or they may draw data from TPS and/or MIS systems.

R. S. Kulzick – 11/1/99

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