To be useful, information requires a number of specific qualities. Information systems should therefore aim to produce information that possesses these qualities.
Required:
Describe FOUR qualities of a useful information. (4 marks)
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- Accuracy: Figures in a report should add up, the degree of rounding should be appropriate, there should be no typographical errors, items should be allocated to the correct category and assumptions should be stated for uncertain information. Information must be reliable.
- Complete: Information should include everything relevant to the decision being considered. If relevant, comparative information should be included. Information should be consistent, for example it should be collected on the same basis each time, to allow for meaningful comparison. Excessive information should be avoided.
- Cost-effective: It should not cost more to obtain the information than the benefit derived from its use. Information collection and analysis should be efficient. Presentation should be clear, such that users do not waste time working out what the information means.
- Understandable: The needs of the user are paramount. The information must be easy to read and well presented.
- Relevant: Information that is not needed for a decision should be omitted. All significant information that is relevant to the decision being considered should be included.
- Accessible: The choice of medium to provide the information should be appropriate (face-to-face, email, letter, written report) and consider the needs of the user.
- Timely: The information should be available when it is needed and in time for required action to be effective.
- Easy to use: As well as being understandable (clear and well presented) and accessible (correct choice of medium) the information should be presented in a manner that the user can easily use or pass on as required.
(Any 4)