IDPM Working papers
This Working Paper is part of the iGovernment Working Papers series
Public Sector Management Information Systems
Richard Heeks
Abstract
Management information systems (MIS) are fundamental for public sector organisations seeking to support the work of managers. Yet they are often ignored in the rush to focus on 'sexier' applications. This paper aims to redress the balance by providing a detailed analysis of public sector MIS. It firstly locates MIS within the broader management monitoring and control systems that they support. Understanding the broader systems and the relationship to public sector inputs, processes, outputs and outcomes is essential to understanding MIS. The paper details the different types of reports that MIS produce, and uses this as the basis for an MIS model and a description of the decision-making benefits that computerised MIS can bring. Finally, the paper describes generic public sector MIS that address internal government transactions, public administration/regulation, and public service delivery. Real-world examples of all types are provided from the US, UK, Africa, and Asia.
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