Information Systems Development from a Semiotic Point of View Essay

Information Systems Development from a Semiotic Point of View - Essay Example Likewise, the design and analysis of information systems involves development of signs (digital codes) and a translation of these signs to some level of construct. The semiotic principles help in understanding the representation of information through some data and a better understanding of the information through appropriate interpretation. It is also important to understand that changes occur in the settings in which these information systems are used similar to the applications of signs at different settings. This paper focuses on semiotics as it applies to information system development. The development and growth of semiotics The development of this field of study is greatly attributed to a Swiss linguist Ferdinand de Saussure (1857-1913) and an American pragmatist Charles Sanders Peirce (1839-1914) (About.com, 2012). Other theorists have made significant contribution towards the development of modern semiotics. Some of these are Roland Barthes (1915-1980), Algirdas Greimas (191 7-1992), Umberto Eco (b.1932), and Julia Kristeva (b.1941) among other theorists (Chandlers, n.d). The individuals worked independently to understand how meaning is developed from the structures that are used. Saussure developed a two-part model of sign that consists of a signifier (the sign) and the signified (the concept that is represented by the sign). The agreed practice enables the meaning to be derived. A sign is, thus, a ‘recognizable combination of a signifier with a particular signified’ (Chandlers, n.d). According to Saussure, there is no relationship between the signifier of a meaning (words or symbols) and the actual meaning (About.com). The framework of the model developed by Saussure provides the famous difference that has been observed between language and speech.... This essay stresses that telecommunication systems, process control systems, environmental control systems, and command and control systems are some of the common information systems in businesses. Business organizations need information systems to communicate to their customers, suppliers, or the shareholders whereas governments need the systems to provide services to its citizens at low costs. In either case, the accuracy, validity, and reliability of information are essential. This paper makes a conclusion that the development of information systems applies theories and principles derived from semiotics. Computer-based information system is described as ‘a sign system embedded in an artifact with action capabilities for organizational purposes’. Semiotics concerns signs and interpretation of their meanings. Likewise, the design and analysis of information systems involves development of signs and a translation of these signs to some level of construct. The semiotic principles help in understanding the representation of information through some data and a better understanding of the information through appropriate interpretation. It is also important to understand that changes occur in the settings in which these information systems are used similar to the applications of signs at different settings. Generally, the development of information systems is derived largely from methods and theories in semiotics. Semiotics is the study of the nature of signs and the laws governing the interpretation of these signs.