AnEnterprise Information System (EIS) is any kind ofinformation system which improves the functions of enterprise business processes through integration. This means typically offering high quality service, dealing with large volumes ofdata and capable of supporting some large and possibly complexorganization or enterprise. An EIS must be able to be used by all parts and all levels of an enterprise.[1]
The wordenterprise can have various connotations. Frequently the term is used only to refer to very large organizations such as multi-national companies or public-sector organizations. However, the term may be used to mean virtually anything, by virtue of it having become a corporate-speakbuzzword.[citation needed]
Enterprise information systems provide a technology platform that enables organizations tointegrate and coordinate theirbusiness processes on a robust foundation. An EIS is currently used in conjunction withcustomer relationship management andsupply chain management to automate business processes.[1] An enterprise information system provides a single system that is central to the organization that ensuring information can be shared across all functional levels and managementhierarchies.
An EIS can be used to increase businessproductivity and reduce service cycles,product development cycles and marketing life cycles.[1] It may be used to amalgamate existing applications. Other outcomes include higheroperational efficiency and cost savings.[1]
Financial value is not usually a direct outcome from the implementation of an enterprise information system.[2]
At the design stage the main characteristic of EIS efficiency evaluation is the probability of timely delivery of various messages such as command, service, etc.[3]
Enterprise systems create a standarddata structure and are invaluable in eliminating the problem of information fragmentation caused by multiple information systems within an organization. An EIS differentiates itself fromlegacy systems in that it is self-transactional, self-helping and adaptable to general and specialist conditions.[1] Unlike an enterprise information system, legacy systems are limited to department-wide communications.[2]
A typical enterprise information system would be housed in one or moredata centers, would runenterprise software, and could include applications that typically cross organizational borders such ascontent management systems.
