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Chapter 1 The Importance of MIS
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Skill Example Jennifer's Problem at Falcon Security
Abstract Reasoning Construct a model or representation. Hesitancy and uncertainty when conceptualizing a
method for identifying 3D-printable drone parts.

Systems Thinking Model system components and show Inability to model Falcon Security’s
how components’ inputs and outputs operational needs.
relate to one another.

Collaboration Develop ideas and plans with others. Unwilling to work with others on work-in-progress.
Provide and receive critical feedback.

Ability to Experiment Create and test promising new alternatives, Fear of failure prohibited discussion of new ideas.
Figure 1-4 consistent with available resources.
Examples of critical Skills for
nonroutine cognition

Abstract Reasoning

Abstract reasoning is the ability to make and manipulate models. You will work with one or more
models in every course topic and book chapter. For example, later in this chapter you will learn about
a model of the five components of an information system. This chapter will describe how to use this
model to assess the scope of any new information system project; other chapters will build upon this
model.
In this course, you will not just manipulate models that we have developed, you will also be
asked to construct models of your own. In Chapter 5, for example, you’ll learn how to create data
models, and in Chapter 12 you’ll learn to make process models.

Systems Thinking

Can you go to a grocery store, look at a can of green beans, and connect that can to U.S. immigra-
tion policy? Can you watch tractors dig up a forest of pulpwood trees and connect that woody trash
to Moore’s Law? Do you know why Cisco Systems is one of the major beneficiaries of YouTube?
Answers to all of these questions require systems thinking. Systems thinking is the ability to
model the components of the system to connect the inputs and outputs among those components
into a sensible whole that reflects the structure and dynamics of the phenomenon observed.
As you are about to learn, this class is about information systems. We will discuss and illustrate
systems; you will be asked to critique systems; you will be asked to compare alternative systems;
you will be asked to apply different systems to different situations. All of those tasks will prepare
you for systems thinking as a professional.

Collaboration

Collaboration is the activity of two or more people working together to achieve a common goal,
result, or work product. Chapter 2 will teach you collaboration skills and illustrate several sample
collaboration information systems. Every chapter of this book includes collaboration exercises
that you may be assigned in class or as homework.
Here’s a fact that surprises many students: Effective collaboration isn’t about being nice. In
fact, surveys indicate the single most important skill for effective collaboration is to give and receive
critical feedback. Advance a proposal in business that challenges the cherished program of the VP
of marketing, and you’ll quickly learn that effective collaboration skills differ from party manners
at the neighborhood barbeque. So, how do you advance your idea in the face of the VP’s resistance?
And without losing your job? In this course, you can learn both skills and information systems for
such collaboration. Even better, you will have many opportunities to practice them.