Management Information Systems (MIS) can be used successfully to facilitate access to a wide range of integrated data sets. They are consistent, modular and flexible tools for the systematic acquisition, analysis and archiving of data and information from a variety of sources. MIS can become even more powerful tools for planning and decision-making. Quality control, standardisation and regular updating are key issues to ensure the usefulness of MIS.

         The term 'information system' is a general term for a system that facilitates access to information; however, a 'management information system' refers to integrated data sources and information systems, which meet the particular needs and requirements of planning and decision-making.