Unit 3: Management information system
System analysis
Concept
The process of analyzing existing systems and system needs, of designing and selecting the
system to meet those needs, and of the implementation and ultimate evaluation of those systems
brings the work of deployment of IT full cycle. In healthcare, this process is complicated by the
large and complex array of providers and possibilities in clinical diagnosis and treatment and of
data analysis and reporting. In this section of the HIMSS Health IT Body of Knowledge,
resources are offered on each of the steps in the process
System approach & System selection procedure
Define the problem or opportunities using
system thinking
Develop and evaluate alternative solutions
Monitor and evaluate Select thesystem solution that best meet your
results requirement
Design the solution
Implement and evaluate the success of the
designed the solution
There are 3 different approaches of management information system
1. Top – down approach
2. Bottom up approach
3. Integrative approach
Top –down approach
Under top-down approach we define the activities of the organization, what kind of business
it is in & under what constraints they it operates. In top- down approach crucial strategies
and tactical decision are defined & necessary decisions to operate the activities are specified
Top-down approach develops a model of information flow in the organization which acts as
a guide for designing the information system. By using the model of information flow,
various information subsystems can be defined .each sub-system comprises of various
modules. The selection of module for developing system is made on the basis of the priority
assigned to it. The various sub-systems and their modules are coordinated to achieve the
objective of integration.
Bottom up approach
A bottom up approach starts with the lowest-level management of the hierarchy and
proceeds progressively through higher levels of the management. Here we identify the
life stream system. Life stream systems are those systems, which are essential for the
day-to-day business activities. After identifying the basic transactions, information file
requirements and information processing programs we develop information system for
each life stream system. Then we move towards the integration of data in different data
files of each information system
Integrative approach
Under integrative approach we can overcome the limitations of the above two approaches
when used objectively. Integrative approach permits managers at all levels to influence
the design of MIS.Top management identifies the structure and design of MIS suitable to
the conern.This design is further presented to lower managers for their views and
modification
The revised design is drawn and evaluated by the top level management and sent down
again in a modified form for further consideration if required. This evaluation,
modification and approval process continues until a final design is achieved, that is
suitable for all levels
Types of information system
Human resource management system(HuRDISH)
Logistic management information system (LMIS)
Health management information system (HMIS)
Fiscal management information system (FMIS)
Health infrastructure information system(HIIS)
Drug information network (DIN)
Ayurveda reporting system (ARS)
Stand alone information system in hospital
Need of system analysis
The system analyst systematically assesses how users interact with technology by
examining the inputting and processing of data and outputting of information on with the
intent of improving organizational processes. Many improvements involve better support
of users work tasks through the use of computerized information systems
Roles of the Systems Analyst
The analyst must be able to work with people of all descriptions and be experienced in
working with computers. The analyst plays many roles, sometimes balancing several at
the same time. The three primary roles of the system analyst are consultant, supporting
expert and agent of change
System analyst as consultant
The systems analyst frequently acts as a systems consultant to human and their business
and thus, may be hired specifically to address information systems issues
Systems analyst as supporting expert
In this role the analyst draws on professional expertise concerning computer hardware
and software and their uses. As the supporting expert, you are not managing the project;
merely you are serving as a resource for those who are.
System analyst as agent of change
The most comprehensive and responsible role that the system analyst takes on is that of
an agent of change, whether internal or external. An agent of change can be defined as a
person, who serves as a catalyst for change, develops a plan for change and works with
others in facilitating that change ogramme.prence of system analyst change the
organization. The analyst must interact with users and management from the very
beginning of the programme.If change seems warranted after analysis, the next step is to
develop a plan for change along with the people who must enact the change. Once
consensus is reached on the change that is to be made, you must constantly interact with
those who are changing
Qualities of system analyst
Problem solver
Communicator
Observer
Self disciplined
Self motivated
Analyzer
Change agent
Interpretation