MIS Structure and Components: People, Procedures, Data, Hardware, Software and Networks Questions

Question 1

List any one component of MIS.

Accepted Answer

Example: **People** (users/managers/IT staff).

Question 2

What is hardware in MIS?

Accepted Answer

**Hardware** refers to physical devices used in MIS such as computers, servers, scanners and printers.

Question 3

What is software in MIS?

Accepted Answer

**Software** is the set of programs that instruct hardware and help process data (OS, DBMS, applications).

Question 4

What is a network in MIS?

Accepted Answer

A **network** is a connection of computers/devices that enables sharing data and resources (e.g., LAN/Internet).

Question 5

What is data quality?

Accepted Answer

**Data quality** means data is accurate, complete, timely and consistent for reliable MIS output.

Question 6

State the full form of LAN.

Accepted Answer

**LAN** = **Local Area Network**.

Question 7

Explain the components of MIS (any three).

Accepted Answer

Any three MIS components:
- **People**: users/managers/IT staff who input and use information.
- **Procedures**: rules/workflows for data entry, approvals and processing.
- **Data**: raw facts from internal/external sources used for reports.
- **Hardware**: devices like servers, scanners, printers.
- **Software**: OS/DBMS and application programs.
- **Networks**: LAN/WAN/Internet for communication.

(Write any three with brief explanation.)

Question 8

Explain the role of people and procedures in MIS (any three points).

Accepted Answer

Role of **people** and **procedures**:
- People ensure correct **data entry** and proper interpretation of reports.
- Procedures standardize workflows (approvals, coding formats) to reduce errors.
- Trained users + clear procedures improve **control** and accountability.

Hence, MIS success depends on users’ skills and well-defined processes.

Question 9

Explain data quality dimensions (any three) and their importance in MIS.

Accepted Answer

Data quality dimensions (any three):
- **Accuracy**: correct values.
- **Completeness**: no missing fields.
- **Timeliness**: updated and current.
- **Consistency**: same definitions across departments.

Importance: high-quality data ensures reliable reports; poor data leads to wrong decisions (**GIGO**).

Question 10

Differentiate system software and application software with examples.

Accepted Answer

System vs Application software:
- **System software** runs and controls the computer system (example: **Operating System**, **DBMS**).
- **Application software** performs business tasks (example: payroll, inventory, ERP module).

Thus, system software provides the platform; application software does specific work.

Question 11

Explain LAN and WAN (any three differences).

Accepted Answer

LAN vs WAN:
- **Coverage**: LAN = small area (office/building); WAN = large area (cities/countries).
- **Speed/Cost**: LAN is faster and cheaper; WAN is costlier and may be slower.
- **Ownership**: LAN is usually privately owned; WAN may use public telecom networks.

Thus, WAN connects multiple LANs over long distances.

Question 12

Explain the importance of networks in MIS (any three points).

Accepted Answer

Networks are important in MIS because they:
- enable **data sharing** between departments and branches in real time
- support centralized databases and faster access to reports
- improve **communication** (email, collaboration tools) and coordination
- help integrate systems like ERP across locations

Thus, networks improve speed, coordination and decision support in MIS.

Question 13

Explain MIS components and show how they work together using a flowchart.

Accepted Answer

### **MIS Components and Integration (working)**

MIS works when all components integrate properly.

**Components**: **People, Procedures, Data, Hardware, Software, Networks**.

```text
People + Procedures
      ↓ (capture)
Data → Processing (Software + Hardware) → Storage
      ↓ (share via Network)
Reports/Information → Decisions → Feedback/Control
```

Thus, correct data capture, secure processing, and proper communication together produce useful information for managers.

Question 14

Differentiate MIS components (people, procedures, data, hardware, software, networks) with a table and examples.

Accepted Answer

### **MIS Components: Meaning and Examples**

| Component | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| **People** | users and managers | cashier, supervisor, IT admin |
| **Procedures** | rules/workflows | approval process, coding format |
| **Data** | raw facts/records | sales transactions, HR records |
| **Hardware** | physical devices | servers, scanners, printers |
| **Software** | programs | OS, DBMS, ERP module |
| **Networks** | connectivity | LAN, Internet, WAN |

This table helps write clear exam answers with quick examples.

Question 15

Explain why data governance is important in MIS (use a mini table/flowchart).

Accepted Answer

### **Importance of Data Governance in MIS**

**Data governance** means assigning data ownership and setting standards to ensure data is high quality and secure.

| Governance area | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| **Ownership** | defines who is responsible for data correctness |
| **Standards** | ensures consistent codes/definitions across departments |
| **Validation** | reduces errors and missing fields |
| **Access control** | protects sensitive data |
| **Audit trail** | tracks changes for accountability |

```text
Good governance → High-quality data → Reliable reports → Better decisions
Bad governance → Poor data (GIGO) → Wrong reports → Wrong decisions
```

Thus, governance is essential for trustworthy MIS output and control.

MIS Structure and Components: People, Procedures, Data, Hardware, Software and Networks

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