What does an enterprise information system (EIS) primarily do?

An enterprise information system (EIS) is designed to integrate and manage data from various functions and departments within an organization. Its primary purpose is to unify disparate information sources into a cohesive framework that enables better decision-making and operational efficiency. This integration allows for a holistic view of data, facilitating more informed strategies and actions across the entire enterprise.

By uniting information, an EIS supports various stakeholders—ranging from managers to analysts—in accessing relevant data and insights that may have previously been siloed in different departments. This comprehensive access to information is crucial for organizations aiming to leverage data-driven decision processes and maintain a competitive edge.

The focus on integrating different systems sets an EIS apart from other systems that may cater specifically to individual users or small teams, which primarily handle localized communication or manage specific interactions rather than provide a broad organizational overview. Similarly, while managing external relationships is an important aspect of business strategy, the primary function of an EIS is more about internal integration than direct external management.