This textbook introduces the use of computer systems to produce and organize information as a tool for business management. The eighth edition adds a chapter that addresses business computing from an organization-wide perspectiveProvides Information Systems topics logically organized with thorough, understandable explanations within a solid theoretical framework. Contents include the computer as a problem-solving tool, using Information Technology for electronic commerce, and more.A textbook consists of two key ingredients-the selection of topics and their organization. These ingredients have always received top priority in Management Information Systems; but because of the dynamic nature of the computer field, the task becomes more difficult with successive editions. Each year there are numerous new topics, and decisions must be made concerning where to put them and what old topics, if any, to discard. Although these can be tough decisions, two situations make the job easier. First, there are many more sources of material today than there were in the past. When the first edition of Management Information Systems was published in 1979, one good reference on a topic was considered a gold mine. Fortunately, that situation has changed. Today there are many excellent sources for each topic, making it possible to provide complete descriptions from several points of view. The second situation that simplifies the job of writing an MIS text is the fact that the underlying theory does not change that much. The theory provides the framework for the technology and is relatively stable. So, when someone writes a new edition, it is not like starting out with a clean slate, wondering what the first word should be. Management Information Systems has always enjoyed a strong brand loyalty among the instructors who adopt and use it. The main reason is that students like it. In their course evaluations, students consistently give the text a good rating, their comments indicating that they like the logical organization and the clear descriptions. Supporting these two features is the strong theoretical base. Logical Textbook Organization: You will find this eighth edition well organized, with the topics flowing logically within each part and each chapter. Terms are not used in a chapter without first defining them. Thorough Explanations: This edition upholds its tradition of complete coverage of each topic that is introduced. Emphasis has never been on the number of topics covered but, rather, on the number covered well. Solid Theoretical Base: The framework for the text consists of approximately 400 illustrations in the form of schematic diagrams, or models. Some of the models were created over the years by experts in the field, and their contributions are acknowledged. Most, however, are unique to this text. The diagrams provide a road map, making it easier to learn the material so that students can apply it in their careers. These three features-good organization, thorough explanations, and a solid theoretical base-give students an advantage in learning about the complex and changing field of business computing. A Management Orientation Like the previous editions, the eighth edition views computer use through the eyes of the manager. The management orientation has always seemed appropriate, but the case is even stronger today with so many managers personally using their computers to produce information. When students later become managers, they will have many opportunities to apply the text material. Perhaps, however, they are primarily interested in computers and want to become computer specialists. As systems analysts, network specialists, or database administrators, they will apply the material as they work with managers in developing managerial systems. Of course, before long they may become managers themselves in the information systems area. So, regardless of the position of the computer specialist in the organization, he or she will benefit from seeing problems from management's point of view.