Operational System Vs. Strategic Information

by Wanda Thibodeaux

An information system is a system comprised of technology --- primarily computers --- data and operations managers in management processes. Two types of information systems are operational and strategic. These systems often are used in the same business, but they have some distinguishing characteristics and functions.

People Supported

People who work with operational information systems typically are operations managers. These managers are concerned with the daily flow of activities and data. By comparison, those who use strategic informational systems tend to be senior-level managers. These managers are concerned with how data might be applied in different ways for the benefit of the business and have more control over how operations proceed.


With an operational information system, the objective is to track fundamental activities, as well as basic transactions that happen over the course of operations. This tracking allows managers to answer routine questions such as where inventory is or how many hours employees worked. With a strategic information system, the objective is to identify trends in the business so managers can develop new methods of operation that may increase productivity, eliminate problems, improve customer service and relations and raise profits. Strategic systems look at what changes in the business are possible.


Operational information systems generally do not change operations, instead merely gathering data on operations already occurring or in place. However, they sometimes are connected to greater efficiency, depending on the data collected. Strategic information systems are put in place specifically to define changes that are possible. They always relate to the change goals that management develops.

Bottom Line

Operational information systems tend to be those used to gather and track data, while strategic information systems tend to be those that apply the data. However, there is some degree of overlap between operational and strategic information systems. For instance, by tracking the number of sales, managers can determine periods of the year where more workers might be beneficial and develop a plan for expeditiously hiring, paying and dismissing some temporary workers.

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