Modern organisations are using technology to deliver innovative services and products that have changed the way we live. These developments aren't achieved through technology alone - Information Systems professionals play a vital role by integrating computer systems and business processes in order to transform a business vision into reality. Your studies in the Department of Information Systems will prepare you to become a driving force in creating the organisations of the future and making a difference to the world of tomorrow.
Foreword from the Head of Department
Welcome to the Department of Information Systems!
Together with hundreds of like-minded students, you've chosen to enter the exciting world of Information and Communications Technology (ICTI - a world in which computer hardware and software are used to produce, store and transmit the information that supports modern organisations. Almost every business or government activity you can think of involves ICTs in some way: from managing the stock on supermarket shelves, to designing a new vehicle body shape, to running national elections. For examples closer to home, you have only to think of everyday activities like drawing cash from an ATM, booking a movie ticket, downloading a music track from the Internet, or sending an SMS from your mobile phone.
At the heart of effective ICT use lie Information Systems: carefully designed combinations of people, processes and computer technology that together collect, transform and distribute information so that it will reach its intended audience at the time that they need it and in the form that they want it. Major sporting events such as the Olympic Games or Soccer World Cup provide an excellent example of information systems in action. Information systems are used to design the stadiums and project manage their construction; to schedule the matches to be played; to sell tickets, whether on the Internet or at physical outlets; to design fitness programmes for the players; to record match results; to analyse games in order to identify strengths and weaknesses of the players; to manage the finances of the entire event; and much more.
As a student in the Department of Information Systems, you can look forward to a set of courses, a learning environment, and a complement of lecturers, that will inspire and encourage you to develop your potential to become a leader in the analysis, design, implementation and the management of data and information systems. We encourage you to seize every opportunity you are given to explore the boundaries of the discipline of Information Systems. Attend your lectures, computer laboratory practicals, and tutorials; ask your lecturers and tutors if you have questions; discuss issues with your fellow students; read as widely as possible on relevant topics; and enjoy using the state-of-the-art technology the Department provides.
Rhodes is one of the oldest universities in South Africa and has a proud history of making significant contributions to our society. Equip yourself to make your own individual contribution whilst having enormous fun registered as a student in the Department of Information Systems!
Prof Greg Foster
Head of Department