Information System Management : Ethical issues in Information System

Information System Management (ISM) involves overseeing and managing an organization's information systems to ensure they effectively support its operations and objectives. Ethical issues in ISM are critical because they pertain to the responsible use of information technology and data, impacting stakeholders, including employees, customers, and society at large.

Key Ethical Issues in Information System Management:

Data Privacy: Protecting personal information from unauthorized access and ensuring that data collection practices comply with regulations (e.g., GDPR).

1. Data Security: Safeguarding information systems against breaches and ensuring that sensitive data is protected from cyber threats.

2. Intellectual Property: Respecting copyright and licensing agreements when using software and digital content.

3. Digital Divide: Addressing inequalities in access to technology and information systems, ensuring that all individuals have opportunities to benefit from IT resources.

4. Surveillance and Monitoring: Balancing organizational needs for monitoring employee activities with respect for privacy rights.

5. Informed Consent: Ensuring that users are fully aware of how their data will be used and obtaining their consent before data collection.

Scenario: A company implements a new employee monitoring software to track productivity.

• Ethical Issue: The software collects data on employee keystrokes, emails, and internet usage, raising concerns about privacy and trust.

• Considerations:

• Transparency: The company must inform employees about what data is being collected and how it will be used.

• Consent: Employees should have the option to consent to monitoring, understanding the implications of their agreement.

• Purpose Limitation: Data collected should only be used for legitimate purposes, such as improving productivity, not for punitive measures

• Outcome: If the company fails to address these ethical issues, it risks damaging employee trust, facing legal repercussions, and harming its reputation.

Internet Challenge in Privacy

1. Privacy Issues

Definition: Privacy refers to an individual's ability to maintain control over their personal information and to express themselves selectively without unwanted intrusion.

Example: Social media platforms often collect vast amounts of personal data, which can be shared with third parties. Users may unwittingly expose themselves by sharing personal details, leading to potential misuse of their information.

2. Accuracy Issues

Definition: Accuracy issues pertain to the authenticity, fidelity, and correctness of the information collected and processed. Inaccurate data can lead to incorrect conclusions and decisions.

Example: A credit reporting agency may have outdated or incorrect information about an individual's credit history. This can affect the person's ability to secure loans or mortgages, resulting in financial and reputational harm.

3. Property Issues

Definition: Property issues involve the ownership and value of information, questioning who owns the data and how it can be used or monetized.

Example: User-generated content on platforms like YouTube raises property issues. Creators may produce valuable content, but the platform often retains rights to the videos, leading to disputes over ownership and revenue sharing.

4. Accessibility Issues

Definition: Accessibility issues revolve around who should have access to certain information and whether access should come at a cost.

Example: Academic research often faces accessibility challenges. Many research papers are behind paywalls, limiting access to individuals and institutions that cannot afford subscriptions, which can hinder knowledge dissemination and innovation.