Module 1

Information Needs, Business Processes, and an Introduction to AIS

This module introduces systems thinking, information systems architecture, and the value of information in business decision-making.

  • Information needs, business processes, and an introduction to AIS
  • Computer hardware and software, management of information systems, infrastructure, and architecture

Before class

Please complete the required reading and videos before coming to class. The videos complement the readings and will support the in-class discussion. The recorded lecture content will generally not be repeated in class.

Come prepared: Review all discussion topics before class so you are ready to contribute when placed in a group.

Main topics covered

Systems concepts

  • Systems theory
  • Data organization and distribution, including systems and output
  • People, hardware/devices, software, data, networks, and processes that make up a system
  • Stakeholders and their interests in systems

Management of information systems infrastructure and architecture

  • Alignment between information systems architecture and business strategy
  • Information systems planning and management
  • Information technology infrastructure considerations:
    • Information technology infrastructure components
    • Cloud computing: private, public, hybrid, SaaS, PaaS, and IaaS

Value of information and information systems to organizations

  • The value of information in the decision-making process
  • Transformation of data into decision-relevant information
  • Creation of intellectual property and knowledge development
  • Ethical use of information

Learning resources

Lecture notes

  • Lecture notes

Required reading

  • Amlani & Davis, Information Systems, 4th Edition, Chapter 1
  • Baltzan: Business Intelligence and Big Data, pp. 88-105. Available through LOCR.

Required videos

Recommended additional video

Class structure

Planned class flow
Time Activity
15 min Welcome to BUSI 335 and class introduction.
15 min

Breakout discussion: You will discuss one or more of the topics below in your breakout group.

  1. Topic 1: Do computers know anything? Can they be creative?
  2. Topic 2: Can information systems truly replace human decision-making in accounting?
  3. Topic 3: How can bias in data affect business decisions?
  4. Topic 4: Should accountants be trained in data science as standard practice?
  5. Topic 5: Since the public release of ChatGPT in late 2022, there have been numerous new AI tools hitting the market. Visit What AI Can Do Today, choose one tool, and explain how it works. If you can provide an example of how you used it, even better.
Remainder of class In-class discussion. Please ensure you watch the lecture content before coming to class and are prepared to contribute.