Introduction to Management Information Systems (MIS): A Survival Guide from edX

This MIS course will cover supporting tech infrastructures (Cloud, Databases, Big Data), the MIS development/ procurement process, and the main integrated systems, ERPs, such as SAP®, Oracle® or Microsoft Dynamics Navision®, as well as their relationship with Business Process Redesign.

Management Information Systems (MIS) are an integral part of today’s professional landscape. From customer relationship management (CRM) systems handling the day to day interactions with clients and prospects, to financial systems issuing invoices and paying bills, day to day working life is increasingly controlled by these systems that dictate what to do and how.

This course will focus on what MIS are, how they influence your current or prospective jobs, why they impose specific - and sometimes seemingly absurd - operational procedures, and how to use this knowledge to your advantage in your professional life.

Grasping the key concepts in MIS does not need to be daunting. We will use real world examples to illustrate key concepts, and strive to strike a proper balance between clarity / amenity and conceptual soundness. Join us on this stimulating journey that will allow you to better understand and perform in your current or desired job.

This course is also available in Spanish: "Introducción a los Sistemas de Información Gerencial (MIS): Una guía de supervivencia".

What you'll learn

Understand Management Information Systems (MIS) and their role in today’s organizations
Identify how MIS shapes and controls current (or prospective) jobs and how to use this insight to improve your own job performance and satisfaction and and enhance your career prospects
Become familiar with the major trends in MIS and MIS infrastructures (Cloud, Big Data, ERPs, outsourcing) and how these evolutions will affect workplaces and business strategies
Bridge the MIS-related second “digital gap” that exists, after basic computer literacy, in most professional jobs

What's inside

Learning objectives

Understand management information systems (mis) and their role in today’s organizations
Identify how mis shapes and controls current (or prospective) jobs and how to use this insight to improve your own job performance and satisfaction and and enhance your career prospects

Become familiar with the major trends in mis and mis infrastructures (cloud, big data, erps, outsourcing) and how these evolutions will affect workplaces and business strategies
Bridge the mis-related second “digital gap” that exists, after basic computer literacy, in most professional jobs

Understand management information systems (mis) and their role in today’s organizations
Identify how mis shapes and controls current (or prospective) jobs and how to use this insight to improve your own job performance and satisfaction and and enhance your career prospects
Become familiar with the major trends in mis and mis infrastructures (cloud, big data, erps, outsourcing) and how these evolutions will affect workplaces and business strategies
Bridge the mis-related second “digital gap” that exists, after basic computer literacy, in most professional jobs

Syllabus

Week 1: MISs. Importance. Procurement We will examine how modern information and communication technologies (ICTs) are transforming our world, and analyze what Management Information Systems (MISs) are and how do they fit within the overall ICTs environment. We shall then discuss how companies obtain their MISs, by either purchasing ready-made packages or by bespoke development, and explore the alternative offered by open systems.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Covers essential concepts for understanding and navigating MIS, making it accessible to learners new to the field

Taught by experienced instructor Alfonso Durán Heras, recognized for expertise in MIS

Provides practical insights into how MIS shapes current and prospective jobs, empowering learners to enhance their performance

Introduces key trends in MIS infrastructures, including Cloud, Big Data, and ERPs, giving learners a competitive edge in understanding industry advancements

Helps bridge the 'second digital gap' in most professional jobs, enhancing learners' ability to navigate MIS-related tasks

Requires familiarity with basic computer literacy, which may not be suitable for learners with no prior exposure to technology

Reviews summary

Introduction to mis for professionals

According to learners, this course offers a solid introduction to Management Information Systems (MIS), particularly beneficial for working professionals seeking to understand MIS's role in organizations. Students praise the course for providing a clear and concise overview of key areas like databases, cloud computing, and ERP systems. Many found the content highly relevant to their jobs and career prospects, effectively bridging the digital gap. While the course excels at laying a strong foundation, some reviewers suggest it covers technical topics like specific ERPs at a high level, potentially requiring additional study for deeper understanding. Overall, it's seen as a valuable survival guide for navigating the MIS landscape in the modern workplace.

Suggests need for supplemental learning.

"This course is a great starting point, but you'll likely need to supplement it with other resources for depth."

"Some concepts were introduced but not explored deeply enough for full understanding without further reading."

"It lays the foundation, but be prepared to do additional research on specific technologies."

"Good for general knowledge, but not sufficient if you need to implement or manage these systems."

Technical topics covered broadly, not in depth.

"While it covers ERPs, don't expect deep dives into specific systems like SAP or Oracle."

"The technical aspects felt a bit superficial; I'll need to find resources for more detail."

"It's a good introduction, but doesn't provide the depth needed for a technical role."

"Provides context, but if you need practical skills with specific software, look elsewhere."

Course quality appears consistent over time.

"Took this recently and found it matched what older reviews said - consistently good overview."

"Content seems up-to-date enough for an introduction, no major outdated sections noticed."

"The core concepts remain relevant, which the course presents effectively regardless of date."

Good overview of databases, cloud, ERPs.

"I appreciated the sections on databases, big data, and cloud infrastructure. Essential knowledge."

"Getting a handle on ERP systems and their role was very beneficial."

"Covers all the essential components needed for an introductory understanding of MIS."

"Provides a useful survey of the key technologies underpinning MIS today."

Provides a clear and accessible overview of MIS.

"As a beginner, I found the explanations very clear and easy to follow. A great starting point."

"The course does an excellent job introducing complex topics like ERPs without being overwhelming."

"Provides a good fundamental understanding of what MIS is and its importance."

"The structure is logical and builds concepts effectively week by week."

Content directly applicable to professional life.

"This course really helped me understand how MIS impacts my daily work and career path."

"I finally grasp why certain operational procedures exist because of these systems. Very practical insight."

"The concepts discussed are highly relevant to today's business environment and directly apply to my job."

"Great for anyone working in or around IT and business processes. Bridged a key gap for me."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Introduction to Management Information Systems (MIS): A Survival Guide with these activities:

Read 'The Practice of System and Network Administration' by Thomas Limoncelli

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Provides practical guidance and insights for understanding and managing IT infrastructures, enhancing your foundational knowledge.

View The Practice of System and Network... on Amazon

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Obtain a copy of the book.
Read each chapter thoroughly, taking notes and highlighting key points.
Complete the exercises and discussion questions at the end of each chapter.
Reflect on the principles and best practices discussed in the book.

Organize and Review Course Materials

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Helps consolidate and familiarize yourself with the core materials.

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Review the syllabus and make a note of key concepts.
Gather all course materials, including notes, assignments, and practice questions.
Create a system for organizing and storing your materials.
Review your materials regularly, focusing on areas where you may need additional support.

Explore Online Tutorials and Resources

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Provides additional learning materials and opportunities to deepen understanding.

Browse courses on Skill Development

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Identify online tutorials or resources relevant to course topics.
Follow tutorials and complete exercises to enhance your skills.
Explore real-world examples or case studies to apply concepts to practical situations.
Share your learnings or insights with classmates or instructors.

Five other activities

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Complete Practice Exercises and Quizzes

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Reinforces concepts and assesses understanding through practical application.

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Access practice exercises and quizzes provided by the course or online resources.
Complete exercises regularly, focusing on areas where you face challenges.
Review your answers and identify areas for improvement.
Seek clarification or assistance from instructors or peers if needed.

Create Blog Posts or Articles

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Enhances your understanding of concepts by explaining them to others and receiving feedback.

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Choose a topic related to course material.
Research and gather information.
Write a clear and concise blog post or article.
Publish your content online and share it with others.

Attend Industry Meetups and Conferences

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Provides opportunities to connect with professionals and learn about industry practices.

Browse courses on Networking

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Identify relevant industry events and conferences.
Prepare an elevator pitch and business cards.
Attend events, actively participate in discussions, and connect with others.
Follow up with contacts made at events.

Volunteer in Projects Related to Cloud Computing or IT Infrastructure

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Provides hands-on experience, connects you with professionals, and helps build your resume.

Browse courses on Networking

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Identify volunteer opportunities in your community or online.
Contact organizations and express your interest.
Participate in projects that align with your skills and interests.
Network with other volunteers and professionals.

Participate in Hackathons or Coding Challenges

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Tests your abilities, encourages collaboration, and exposes you to cutting-edge technologies.

Browse courses on Problem Solving

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Identify hackathons or coding challenges aligned with your interests.
Form a team or join an existing one.
Develop a solution for the challenge.
Present your solution to a panel of judges.

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Management Information Systems (MIS): A Survival Guide will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Chief Technology Officer

Chief Technology Officers (CTOs) are responsible for overseeing the technological vision and direction of their organizations. They play a critical role in shaping the company's strategy. An Introduction to Management Information Systems (MIS) can provide a CTO with a foundational understanding of the principles and practices of MIS, enabling them to make informed decisions and lead their organization to success in the digital age.

See salaries and explore the career path for Chief Technology Officer

Chief Information Officer

Chief Information Officers (CIOs) are responsible for managing and directing the information technology (IT) resources of their organizations. They play a vital role in ensuring that the organization's IT systems are aligned with its business objectives. This course can help CIOs to develop a deeper understanding of the role of MIS in organizations and to make informed decisions about the implementation and use of MIS systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Chief Information Officer

Information Technology Manager

Information Technology Managers are responsible for planning, implementing, and managing the IT infrastructure of their organizations. They play a key role ensuring that IT systems are reliable, secure, and efficient. A course in MIS provides a solid foundation for IT Managers, enabling them to understand the business value of MIS and to make informed decisions about the design, implementation, and management of IT systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Technology Manager

Data Analyst

Data Analysts are responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data to help organizations make informed decisions. They play a vital role in the digital age, where data is a valuable asset. This course can provide Data Analysts with a strong foundation in the principles and practices of MIS, enabling them to effectively analyze data and extract meaningful insights.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Business Analyst

Business Analysts are responsible for understanding the business needs of an organization and translating them into technical requirements. They play a critical role in bridging the gap between business and IT. This course can provide Business Analysts with a strong foundation in the principles and practices of MIS, enabling them to effectively understand business needs and to develop and implement IT solutions that meet those needs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Project Manager

Project Managers are responsible for planning, executing, and closing projects. They play a vital role in ensuring that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. This course can provide Project Managers with a strong foundation in the principles and practices of MIS, enabling them to effectively manage IT projects.

See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager

Systems Analyst

Systems Analysts are responsible for analyzing and designing IT systems. They play a critical role in ensuring that IT systems meet the needs of the organization. This course can provide Systems Analysts with a strong foundation in the principles and practices of MIS, enabling them to effectively analyze and design IT systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Analyst

Database Administrator

Database Administrators are responsible for managing and maintaining databases. They play a vital role in ensuring that databases are reliable, secure, and efficient. This course can provide Database Administrators with a strong foundation in the principles and practices of MIS, enabling them to effectively manage and maintain databases.

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Network Administrator

Network Administrators are responsible for managing and maintaining networks. They play a vital role in ensuring that networks are reliable, secure, and efficient. This course can provide Network Administrators with a strong foundation in the principles and practices of MIS, enabling them to effectively manage and maintain networks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Administrator

Security Analyst

Security Analysts are responsible for protecting organizations from cyber threats. They play a vital role in ensuring that organizations' IT systems are secure and that data is protected. This course can provide Security Analysts with a strong foundation in the principles and practices of MIS, enabling them to effectively protect organizations from cyber threats.

See salaries and explore the career path for Security Analyst

Software Engineer

Software Engineers are responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining software applications. They play a vital role in the development of new technologies and products. While this course may not directly teach software engineering, it can provide a strong foundation in the principles and practices of MIS, enabling Software Engineers to understand the business context of their work and to develop software applications that meet the needs of the organization.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Web Developer

Web Developers are responsible for designing and developing websites. They play a vital role in the development of new technologies and products. While this course may not directly teach web development, it can provide a strong foundation in the principles and practices of MIS, enabling Web Developers to understand the business context of their work and to develop websites that meet the needs of the organization.

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IT Consultant

IT Consultants are responsible for providing advice and guidance to organizations on the use of IT. They play a vital role in helping organizations to make informed decisions about the implementation and use of IT systems. This course can provide IT Consultants with a strong foundation in the principles and practices of MIS, enabling them to effectively advise and guide organizations on the use of IT.

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Technical Writer

Technical Writers are responsible for writing and editing technical documentation. They play a vital role in ensuring that technical information is clear, concise, and accurate. While this course may not directly teach technical writing, it can provide a strong foundation in the principles and practices of MIS, enabling Technical Writers to understand the business context of their work and to write technical documentation that meets the needs of the organization.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer

Computer Programmer

Computer Programmers are responsible for writing and maintaining computer programs. They play a vital role in the development of new technologies and products. While this course may not directly teach computer programming, it can provide a strong foundation in the principles and practices of MIS, enabling Computer Programmers to understand the business context of their work and to develop computer programs that meet the needs of the organization.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Programmer