Information, in a broad sense, is structured, processed and organised data. It provides context for other data and allows effective decision making. For instance, a single customer’s sale in a restaurant is statistical data-this becomes information once the business has been able to identify which food is the most popular or less popular. However, information has different meanings. Some forms of statistical data are known as “observational” data while some forms of statistical information are called “statistical” data because they are based on observed facts. Some forms of statistical information can actually forecast future results based on historical patterns-for instance, the unemployment rate has been predicted to rise over the next few years because more people will have a job; therefore, if we know that a certain event will take place in the near future, then we can make our decisions accordingly.
This is one reason why we need to be very careful about the decisions we make regarding the organisation of our businesses. For instance, what sort of information systems or software should we put in place? Will it be better to use an Information Technology (IT) company that can build customized solutions tailored to our specific business processes? If so, then how to select the company best suited to meet our requirements? How much training do we need to provide to these companies in order to get the best value for money?
The answer is no, you do not need to be a computer wizard in order to reap the benefits of Information Technology and its associated career paths. On the contrary, you need to understand how basic computer programs work before you start deploying advanced applications. However, with that said; most Information Technology professionals have a strong background in mathematics, physics or business administration. In fact, many Information Technology careers involve working as financial planners, marketing managers, supply chain analysts, IT generalists, or computer programmers. Indeed, information systems and information technology are growing in importance and demand every day.