ISAS 2012 - International Conference on Information Systems Analysis and Synthesis: ISAS

Data are a necessary condition for information, but they are not a sufficient one. Human interpretation is required to transform the data into information. As it is known, Bjorn Langefors distinguished 'data' and 'information' establishing the equation I = i (D, S, T) where I stands for information, i for the interpretation process, D for the data, S for the recipient's previous knowledge as a result of a personal experience, and T for time. (Johannesson and Söderström, 2008, Information Systems Engineering, p. vi). Details regarding the conceptual differentiation between 'data' and 'information' can be found in Callaos and Callaos, 2002, "Toward a Systemic Notion of Information: Practical Consequences," Informing Science Journal, Volume 5 No 1, at http://www.inform.nu/Articles/Vol5/v5n1p001-011.pd...

Information Systems based on Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) have two basic macro sub-systems: 1) ICT-based electronic data processing and 2) Human (individual, group, or organization) data and information processing. Both sub-systems interact with each other producing cybernetic loops (negative and positive feedback) which if, adequately developed, implemented, and deployed regulate each other and generate a synergic integration, probably with emergent properties in the integrated whole.

ICT-based Information Systems are usually developed and deployed in academic, public, and private Organizational Systems, which in turn train professionals who are formed mostly in universities. Consequently, the purpose of the ISAS 2012 Organizing Committee is to bring together academics, information scientists and engineers, and practicing ICT professionals and consultants, to share their experience, problems, and solutions in the multi- and inter-disciplinary fields of Information Systems.

Based on the conceptual differentiation between 'data' and 'information' and on the diversity of researchers, innovators, and professionals working in Information Systems, the ISAS 2012 Organizing Committee identified the following main themes/areas of the conference, which are based on the two sub-systems mentioned above and on the interaction between them:

Human and Organizational Information Systems
ICT-Based Information Systems
Electronic Data Processing: Computer Science and Engineering
Information Systems Engineering
Information Systems Development
Information Systems Management
Management Information Systems
Communication and Network Systems Engineering