Distinguish between 'top-down' and 'bottom-up' approach to MIS development.

Sr. No. Top down approach Bottom up approach 1 The development of MIS under this approach begins by defining the objectives of the organization, and the constraints under which it operates. The development of information system under this approach starts from the identification of life stream systems which are essential for the day-to-day business activities. 2 Top management takes the initia-tive in formulating major objectives, strategies and policies. It is the supervisory management who identifies the life stream systems for which MIS may be developed. 3 The MIS is more consistent with the systems approach and is also viewed as a total system, which is fully integrated. The MIS is developed through an orderly process of transition, building upon trans-action processing sub-system and may not be fully integrated. 4 This approach only concentrates on implementation and day-to-day development of system. Under this approach management does not interfere in the day-to-day development of system.