Week 6 Discussion

Data and Information for Planning and Decision-Making

 

While reading about communications and technology, you have come across the words data and information. In this Discussion, you will have the opportunity to examine the differences between the meanings of the two words. How would you define data? How would you define information? Which word’s meaning includes the meaning of the other word? Importantly, how do these two modes of providing content impact quality control in an operation?

Post by Day 3 a 150- to 500-word statement that answers both of the following questions:

• What are the differences between data and information, and how can they be used for effective planning and decision making?
• How does access to data and information impact a manager’s ability to initiate, maintain, and control quality in an organization?

Support your work with specific citations from the Learning Resources. You are allowed to draw from additional sources to support your argument, but you must cite using APA standards. All quoted material must be identified, cited, and referenced per APA standards.

You are encouraged to enrich your posting with your personal examples, experience, or insights.

Edit your postings carefully for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors.

Respond by Day 6 with at least 75 words each to two or more of your colleagues’ postings in one or more of the following ways:

• Ask a probing question.
• Share an insight from having read your colleague’s posting.
• Offer and support an opinion.
• Make a suggestion.
• Expand on your colleague’s posting.

Please note that that you are expected to post and respond to class Discussions a minimum of 2 different days each week (1 day to submit your post, another to respond to your colleagues). Points will be deducted if you do not participate in the course Discussion on at least on 2 days during the week.

Return to this Discussion in a few days to read the responses to your posting and responses. Note what you have learned and the insights that you gained as a result of participating in this Discussion.

 

Resources:

Readings

• Jones, G. R., & George, J. M. (2014). Essentials of contemporary management (6th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw-Hill.
  • Chapter 13, “Communication and Information Technology Management” (pp. 420–453)

    This chapter is about information systems and technology. You will also encounter ideas about face-to-face communication, written communication, and the communication process. Management information systems (MIS) have evolved tremendously over the past 30 years. This chapter looks at some of the types of MIS available, and why they are used.

    Focus on the definitions and concepts provided throughout this chapter. Think about how technological advances have made conducting business in the 21st century a very different enterprise than it was in the 19th or even the 20th century. Consider your own workplace experiences or some you are familiar with, as well as how technology has changed your workplace over time. What are the most critical technologies in your workplace? What technology would improve the efficiency or effectiveness of your workplace? Reflect on how technology is just a tool for achieving human processes and communications.

  • Chapter 14, “Operations Management: Managing Vital Operations and Processes” (pp. 454–484)

    This chapter addresses the subject of “operations management” and why it is so crucial to the success of any company. What are operations? What is “quality,” and why is quality a critical issue? In this chapter, you will also explore the answers to these questions, and you will consider why operations are so connected to the customer—the ultimate reason for any company’s existence.

    Focus on the definitions and concepts provided throughout this chapter. Think about how good operations management can help people achieve superior quality, greater efficiency, and satisfactory accountability to customers.