General Systems Theory Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

General Systems Theory - Essay Example According to Dwivedi and Wade, a process is essentially a set of behaviors that incorporates a system and whose aim is to achieve a goal. A system consists of elements which have many and relevant properties. These elements are not part of the system, but in case they are removed or changed then the state of the system will be changed or altered. This paper focuses uniquely on emergence and connectivity system theory concepts as they applied in the information systems. The benefits of information systems include personnel and inventory reduction. Tangible benefits include improved processes, visibility and standardization. The benefits can also be classified as strategic, financial, tactical and operational. Organizational systems provide the environment for the information systems (Stair & Reynolds 2011). According to Stair & Reynolds, the information systems are different from the organizations in which they are embedded. Information systems are purposive systems. Organizations are systems which are purposeful (Hua & Bapna 2009). Hua & Bapna urge that, in case of a purposive system, there are multiple goals, which are different but they are under a common property. Information systems offer considerable help in packaging and processing organizational systems. ... In this case, the observer can be a manager, customer, etc. we must view an information system as an element of a bigger system. Information systems play an extremely prominent role in the running of an organization (Knight & Halkett 2010). An organization is a system which consists of subsystems which are distinct but correspond to each other. While considering information systems it is crucial to take note of how the general systems theory promotes the purpose and understanding of information systems, (Stair & Reynolds 2011). Considering the above definition, information systems can be conceptualized and thought of as control systems. They can also be viewed as subsystems that give common meaning or purpose to a system which is part of a bigger system (Knight & Halkett 2010). This definition carries more value and representation than the other definitions. It also shows the modern role of information systems. General system theory and information systems General systems theory (GST ) can be applied to information systems (IS). General systems theory consists of four concepts that help to define any system. These are emergence, control, hierarchy and communication. Emergence refers to the process by which new structures and properties are derived in complex systems. This happens when elements of a system interact over a period of time. Hierarchy refers to a collection of stages or levels which are arranged according to the level of detail or complexity. This is demonstrated through systems and subsystems. When information is being processed in organization systems, it is planned, processed and displayed according to these hierarchies. This saves time for the organization. The communication is the process by which