Distinguish between the following: Top-down and Bottom-up approach in MIS development

Top down approach: The development of MIS under top down approach begins by defining the objectives of the organization, the kind of business it is in to, and the constraints under which it operates. The activities or functions for which information would be required are also identified. The crucial strategic and tactical decisions are also defined and the decisions necessary to operate the activities are specified. From the activities or functions and the decisions to be made, the major information requirements are ascertained. Bottom up approach: The development of information system under this approach starts from the identification of life stream systems. Life stream systems are those systems, which are essential for the day-to-day business activities. The examples of life stream systems include - payroll, sales order, inventory control and purchasing etc. The development of information system, for each life stream system starts after identifying their basic transactions, information file requirements and information processing programs. Basis of distinction Top down approach Bottom up approach Development of MIS The development of MIS under top down approach begins by defining the objectives of the organization, the kind of business it is in to, and the constraints under which it operates. The development of information system under this approach starts from the identification of life stream systems. Life stream systems are those systems, which are essential for the day-to-day business activities. Initiative Top management takes the initiative in formulating major objectives, strategies and policies. It is the supervisory management who identifies the life stream systems for which MIS may be developed. Consistency and integrity The information system developed under top down approach is more consistent with the systems approach and is also viewed as a total system, which is fully integrated. The information system developed under bottom up approach is developed through an orderly process of transition, building upon transaction processing sub-system. This system may not be integrated. Control This approach only concentrates on implementation and day-to-day control. Under this approach management refrains from guiding or controlling the development of system developed by supervisory level.