Student guide Faculty of Economics A.Y. 2008/09

Information Systems
Lesson timetable, Notice board, Additional material
Aim of the course
The course aims at developing the knowledge of the technical aspects and the managerial methods necessary to understand the business applications
The course aims at developing the knowledge of the technical aspects and the managerial methods necessary to understand the business applications of the information and communication technologies (ICT) and to improve the business efficiency and effectiveness through the use of ICT resources.
Therefore, the main objectives of the course are:
1. to provide the basic notions regarding the ICT;
2. to develop a deep understanding of the issues of information management within an organization;
3. to develop the ability to analyze and manage business evolution in relationship to to the adoption of ICT in general and specifically to Internet based technologies.
Syllabus
The study of the technological components of an information system (IS) is essential to provide the student with a solid knowledge base about how information systems work. By understanding opportunities and limits of the ICT the student will be able to assess the influence of ICT on business strategies and organization and to compare the adequacy of different technical solutions to the business needs.
In synthesis, the lectures will cover the following main topics:
1. the new role of information and IS within organizations with attention to the e-business phenomena;
2. the technological characteristics and functionalities of a computer based IS;
3. the impact of the new information technologies on the organization structure and on the business competitiveness;
4. Models for IS planning and for choosing between make or buy decisions.
5. software applications and ICT systems for IS management: Data Base systems, ERP systems, etc.;
6. IS development: approaches and methods to build and manage IS.
Examinations
Students are required to take a final written exam at the end of the course to prove their knowledge on the topics presented in the course. In addition, the teachers could possibly divide the course program in two parts and allow students to take two separate exams in substitution of the final exam.
Reading list
M. Tagliavini, A. Ravarini, D. Sciuto, Sistemi per la Getione dell’Informazione, Apogeo, 2003.
Documentation provided by teachers (slides, papers, …).