<P> The fifth era (cloud computing) is the latest and employs networking technology to deliver applications as well as data storage independent of the configuration, location or nature of the hardware . This, along with high speed cellphone and Wi - Fi networks, has led to new levels of mobility in which managers may access the MIS remotely with laptops, tablet computers and smartphones . </P> <P> The terms management information system (MIS), information system, enterprise resource planning (ERP), and information technology management (IT) are often confused . Information systems and MIS are broader categories that include ERP . Information technology management concerns the operation and company of information technology resources independent of their purpose . </P> <Ul> <Li> Management information systems, produce fixed, regularly scheduled reports based on data extracted and summarized from the firm's underlying transaction processing systems to middle and operational level managers to identify and inform semi-structured decision problems . </Li> <Li> Decision support systems (DSS) are computer program applications used by middle and higher management to compile information from a wide range of sources to support problem solving and decision making . A DSS is used mostly for semi-structured and unstructured decision problems . </Li> <Li> Executive information systems (EIS) is a reporting tool that provides quick access to summarized reports coming from all company levels and departments such as accounting, human resources and operations . </Li> <Li> Marketing Information Systems are Management Information Systems designed specifically for managing the marketing aspects of the business </Li> <Li> Accounting information systems are focused accounting functions . </Li> <Li> Human resource management systems are used for personnel aspects . </Li> <Li> Office automation systems (OAS) support communication and productivity in the enterprise by automating workflow and eliminating bottlenecks . OAS may be implemented at any and all levels of management . </Li> <Li> School Information Management Systems (SIMS) cover school administration, and often including teaching and learning materials . </Li> <Li> Enterprise resource planning facilitates the flow of information between all business functions inside the boundaries of the organization and manage the connections to outside stakeholders . </Li> </Ul> <Li> Management information systems, produce fixed, regularly scheduled reports based on data extracted and summarized from the firm's underlying transaction processing systems to middle and operational level managers to identify and inform semi-structured decision problems . </Li>

Methods of organizing staff in the information system department