Systems
A system is a set of components which works as a unit. An information processing system consists of everything required to carry out a particular processing task.
Examples of information processing systems
1 The stock control system for a shop . The system comprises:
(a) The methods of checking on stock levels, of ordering new goods, of recording their delivery,
and so on.
(b) The means of communicating with suppliers.
(c) The computer hardware and software if the system is computerized.
2 The working system in an office. This would include:
(a) The methods of communication-whether by letter, by telephone, by electronic mail.
(b) The methods of storage of information-whether on computer discs or in filing cabinets.
(c) The methods of producing letters-perhaps they are dictated to a secretary who later produces them on a word processor.
(d) The equipment-word processors, copiers, etc.
COMPUTERIZED INFORMATION PROCESSING SYSTEMS
In general a computerized information processing system includes:
1 Computers and other hardware.
2 Computer software-software is a general term for programs which are written to help computer users
3 Methods of (a) collecting, (b) checking and (c) inputting data.
4 Methods of communication (a) for data transmission, (b) between people in the organization.
5 Data files-the data held and the methods of (a) updating files and (b) of keeping them
secure.
6 Processing operations carried out on data.
7 Methods of outputting data.
OTHER USES OF THE TERM ‘SYSTEM’
The word ‘system’ can be used to mean just a set of equipment or, in computing, just hardware and/or software.
Examples
1 A camera system-the camera together with all its lenses, filters, flashguns, etc.
2 A central heating system-the boiler, pipes, radiators, thermostats, pumps and control box.
3 A computer system-the central processor, the peripherals and the software.
4 The operating system of a computer-the software which keeps it running .