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Difference Between Operational System and Informational System

Nearly everyone has heard of computer systems, yet most people do not understand their description, components, or function. We use a computer system daily in our daily lives and to conduct our jobs. The computer system might be as basic as a calculator used to calculate our daily income, or it can be so complicated that it is used to operate a whole nation. So it is necessary to know the difference between an operational system and an informational system.

What is Operational System?

operational system

A well-known word in data warehousing, operational system refers to a system used to retain records of everyday business activities inside a company. Online Transaction Processing is a synonym for operational system (OLTP). Operational systems must deal with real-time data values, which include payroll, inventory, order, and other operational data.

Features:

  • Modes of protection and supervision
  • Execution of Programs
  • Modifications to the File System
  • Handling I/O Operations.

Advantages:

  • No Coding Lines Since the introduction of the graphical user interface, operating systems may access hardware without writing programs.
  • Safeguarding of Data With the aid of operating systems, we can store more data on computers and access it. The OS maintains safe and secure data management.
  • Software Update: An operating system requires a software update to satisfy its users' daily needs; thus, the operating system updates its software automatically.

Disadvantages:

  • Page Table Length Register (PTLR) must be constrained to the amount of virtual memory.
  • Staggered page tables and varying page sizes needed more development.
  • Your system is accessible to unknown users without your permission.

What is Informational System?

informational system

Informational systems are standardized systems usually used inside an organization's people, processes, and technology to enhance interaction. Informational systems are intended to collect, compile, and extract information from data. Informational systems are used universally to improve the efficiency of enterprises and organizations.

Features:

  • The foundation of an information system is long-term planning.
  • It gives a comprehensive perspective of the organization's dynamics and structure.
  • It functions as a full and comprehensive system that encompasses all interconnected organizational subsystems.
  • It is designed from the top down, with the decision makers or management providing clear guidance throughout the information system's development phase.

Advantages:

  • Information provided to decision-makers.
  • Improved client service
  • availability of the systems at all times.
  • Expansion of communication capacities and techniques.

Disadvantages:

  • Information systems may not operate correctly at all times.
  • Systems malfunction, disrupting business and resulting in dissatisfied customers.

Operational System vs. Informational System

Operational System Informational System
  • Operational systems are designed to deal with the running values of data.
  • Informational Systems deals with the collection, compilation and deriving information from data.
  • In operational systems, optimization of data structure is done for transactions.
  • In informational systems, optimization of data structure is done for complex queries.
  • Operational systems have response time of sub-seconds.
  • While informational systems have a response time of few seconds to minutes.
  • Operational systems are generally suited for small volumes of data.
  • Informational Systems are mainly designed for large volumes of data and hence convenient to use.
  • Operational systems are process oriented.
  • While informational systems are subject oriented.
  • Operational systems supports various data access operations such as read, update and delete.
  • Informational systems only supports read operation for data access.

Conclusion`

In conclusion, there are two types of information systems—operational systems and informational systems—each of which serves a certain purpose inside an organisation. Informational systems give managers and other users the data they need to make choices and support their operations, whereas operational systems serve the fundamental tasks of an organisation such transaction processing, resource management, and control. Both kinds of systems are necessary for the smooth operation of businesses, and they frequently collaborate to further the organization's overarching aims and objectives.

Related Questions

1. What are examples of information systems?

Examples of information systems include:

  1. A point-of-sale system in a retail store, which processes transactions and manages inventory.
  2. A hospital information system, which manages patient records, appointments, and billing.
  3. A supply chain management system, which tracks orders, deliveries, and inventory levels.
  4. A social media platform, which enables users to share and discover content.
  5. An airline reservation system, which manages flight schedules, bookings, and check-ins.

2. What are the 3 types of information systems?

  • Transaction processing systems are the backbone of an organisation. They help with things like sales, purchases, payroll, and managing inventory.
  • Management information systems: These systems give managers the reports, summaries, and dashboards they need to make decisions, as well as the information they need to make those decisions.
  • Decision support systems: These systems give managers and other users access to relevant information, models, and other tools that help them make decisions.


About the author:
Adarsh Kumar Singh is a technology writer with a passion for coding and programming. With years of experience in the technical field, he has established a reputation as a knowledgeable and insightful writer on a range of technical topics.