Text VII. Mis – management information systems. Grapevine. Media

Read and translate the text.

Answer the questions on the text below:

What is the difference between the three described modes of information?

What does MIS refer to?

How has it been implemented in modern business?

What is grapevine?

Why is it considered the biggest source of information?

What can be done about gossiping?

Why is it better to deal with it?

How does media influence business?

How should organizations deal with media? Why?

Mis

Management information systems is a broad term that refers to what goes into the computer and comes out of the computer. Back in the days when we had pencils and typewriters and such, it was not necessary to have MIS because everybody understood how to make the system work. Now, when everything comes off a data base, we have to be certain that the overall system is compatible with itself and other system. It is necessary to find people who understand electronics, understand management, and still can get along with everybody.

MIS should be a separate function reporting, depending on size of the organization, to the controller or director or administration.

Grapevine

Studies always show that the biggest source of information inside any company is the grapevine. The grapevine can be encouraged and used, if necessary, by putting out information about the company through a newspaper. Gossip is mischievous at best. It often happens because the managers of the company are gossips themselves or because they encourage it, listen to it, or not make a big deal about discouraging it.

I find that mentioning during the initial orientation that we don’t gossip about each other, or our clients, has a good effect. Usually companies do not talk about that sort of thing: it’s under the surface. But bringing it up on top, and then saying that it is bad for the company and that employees really can ask about anything and get an answer, will tend to cup it down. However, do not forget that gossiping is probably number-one interest of most human beings.

Media

This is a modern word, loosely defined as all the public information system, such as television, radio, newspapers, and magazines. The public, customers, and competitors all receive information about organizations from the media. By the same token, organizations are the ones that supply a great deal of the information to the media, either directly.

It is necessary to be very careful about what goes out and what is put out and also to be very practical about it. Organizations cannot hide from the media, and when they solicit the media, they get the opportunity to make big mistakes. Media people, for the most part, are very professional, are interested only in telling interesting stories, and are not out to «get anybody ». However, organizations must deal with the media on a planned basis. Leave nothing to chance.

If a suitable consulting firm is not available or affordable, at least appoint a spokesperson. Think out what needs to be said on a subject and write it down. Then send that short comment to the media.

If a personal appearance is required, get a little coaching on how to do that sort of thing.

The images of companies, as well as those of individuals, are created in great part by what is written and said about them. We all know that, but we sometimes forget that poor information originates with ourselves.

Sum up information you’ve learned from the text.

Speak about the importance of different sources of information and your attitude to media.