Automated information systems process and distribute information with minimal human interaction, saving time and costs. Examples include the Amber Alert system and library catalogs. Private businesses can use them for sales and employee tracking.
An automated information system is simply a system by which information is processed for collection and distribution through a series of automated processes. The system often requires very little human interaction beyond installation and maintenance. It is often used to access information and send it to people. Those using these types of systems include governments, libraries, and private companies.
The use of an automated information system, also known as an automated information management system, can be of great benefit to both government institutions and private companies. The process of distributing information quickly through an automated system can save many hours of tedious work, thus providing cost savings for the entity that needs to distribute that information. This type of system can do everything from reminding people when a bill is due to alerting them to a potentially serious situation.
An example of an automated information system that many in the United States are familiar with is the Amber Alert system. This system is an automated nationwide network for alerting individuals to a possible abducted child. The system can be set up so that information is sent to a limited geographic area where the child is likely to be located. In minutes, it can be displayed or broadcast on street signs, television and radio, email, phone calls, and even text messages on cell phones. Using individuals to distribute this information would not only be very costly, it would also waste valuable time, allowing a possible perpetrator to escape with the child.
An automated library information system is especially useful for those looking for specific library materials. Often a library’s entire card catalog is available both in the library itself, using the library network, and online. As soon as books are scanned, they will immediately show as available, with no further work required by the librarian. The online capabilities of this type of automated information system are particularly convenient for the library user. There is no need to go to the library, only to be disappointed if the desired materials are not available, as they can be checked right from home.
In private business, an automated information system could also be very important, especially when it comes to sales and customer satisfaction. For example, those running mass marketing campaigns over the phone can use these systems to track customers. Some of these systems will not only dial the number but may provide the entire sales pitch. In other cases, the ringing phone will go directly to a live marketer. This type of system can also track employee hours and payroll.
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