Informatics: Understanding Information Processing
Informatics is the science that covers the study and application of automatic processing of information using electronic devices and computing systems. It is also defined as the machine processing of information.
Accordingly, computer systems perform the following three basic tasks:
- Input: Collection of digital information.
- Process: Data processing.
- Output: Transmission of binary outcomes.
Initially, information processing was applied to repetitive and monotonous tasks in administrative areas. Thanks to the automation of these processes, costs are reduced. Computers converge the fundamentals of computer science: programming and methodologies for software development, computer architecture, computer networks, artificial intelligence, and certain issues related to electronics. Computing can be understood as the synergy of all these disciplines.
This discipline applies to many and varied areas of knowledge or human activity, such as: business management, storage and consultation of information, monitoring and control processes, industry, robotics, communications, transport control, research, game development, computer design, applications/tools, multimedia, medicine, biology, physics, chemistry, meteorology, engineering, and art. One of the most important applications of computing is to provide information in a timely and accurate manner. This can, for example, facilitate decision-making at the management level (in a company) and allow the control of critical processes. It is now difficult to imagine an area that does not use, in some way, the support of information technology. This can cover a huge range of functions, from simple domestic issues to the most complex scientific calculations.
Main Functions of a Computer:
- Creation of new job specifications.
- Development and implementation of computer systems.
- Systematization of processes.
- Optimization of methods and information systems.
Life Cycle of an Information System
An information system development process, or life cycle, presupposes a set of different tasks with a certain sequence.
You cannot automate what you do not know.
You cannot automate what goes wrong.
You cannot automate without knowing how to automate.
Moments in the Process of Analysis and Design
User awareness of the need for changes (problems) to be resolved through a new computer system.
Moments
- Analysis of the existing information system
- Design and implementation of a new system
- Implementation
- Exploitation
- Maintenance
The integrated computer system includes automated and non-automated tasks in a complex whole. It is impossible to test it completely at the laboratory level, and a real trial period is necessary. The creation of a computer system includes stages, phases, tools, and working equipment. There is no single working method. This is determined by the size, complexity, resources, available time, and expected results.
Zero Time: Need for Knowledge Changes
At this time, it is detected that something is wrong, and it is known or suspected to be related to the information system. Specialists in the system are contacted.
- Work order and terms of reference
- Proposed and accepted work plan.
- Clearly defined objectives
- Division into specific and short activities (to implement and control)
- Definition of the sequence and length [or critical path] to control
Information and communication flows in logistics
The integration of all areas and functions within the enterprise is facilitated by the flexibility and speed of information. In some companies, information systems are considered “the set of procedures to provide the details required in the processes of coordination, control, and decision-making in an organization,” which, under this view, is essentially part of the same.