Dr P. B. Seddon 306-205 Business Computing Second Semester. Two 1-hour lectures and one 1-hour tutorial a week. On completion of this subject a student should:

• be able to describe the key characteristics of at least six different classes of information systems ranging from transaction processing systems through to expert systems;
• be able to explain how information systems can add value to their host organisations;
• be able to explain, giving examples, how information systems may be used for competitive advantage;
• be able to understand how applicants of information technology may change the structure of, and power balances within, organisations;
• be able to understand the impact of telecommunications on both inter- and intra-organisational processes;
• be able to explain how applications of IT can be viewed as diffusion-of-innovation processes;
• be able to explain how information can be viewed as a resource that has value, and how thta resource should be managed;
• be able to identify the objectives of various techniques for building effective information systems;
• be able to write spreadsheet macros and menus competently;
• be able to develop an expert system using an expert system shell.

Focusing on management applications of information technology, this subject assumes that students are familiar with basic computer technology, transaction processing systems, and databases, and examines alternative ways to use computer technology to add value to a firm. To achieve this purpose, the course uses textbook material, the research literature in Information Systems, case studies, and practical computing exercises. A 2-hour end-of-semester examination (50%); two case studies (15%); three computer-based assignments (30%); and constructive participation in tutorials (5%). The assessment in this subject includes practical and theoretical components. An overall pass in each of these components is required to achieve a pass in the subject as a whole. Laudon K C and Laudon J P Management Information Systems: Organisation and Technology 3rd edn Macmillan 1994, Luce T. Using VP-Expert in Business Mitchell McGraw-Hill 1992, Course Notes for Management Information Systems 1994