IS professionals must understand both technical and organizational factors, and must be able to help an organization determine how information and technology-enabled business processes can provide a foundation for superior organizational performance. They serve as a bridge between the technical and management communities within an organization. Thus, there is some overlap between the topics studied in CIS and those studied in MIS. For example, both fields include the study of systems analysis and database design. Both fields use computers to address business needs.

As for differences, MIS curricula tend to include business subjects, such as accounting, finance, marketing, and human resources. And the areas of application tend to be in typical business environments for gaining competitive advantage. That is reason why we teach Michael Porter's model in MIS courses.

CIS applications are wider ranging, in both subject and area of application. They include computer programming, data structure, system analysis design tools and techniques, network and telecommunication management, and all the back office technology that supports modern business.

The academic training of CIS students usually goes much deeper into the technology than does that of a typical MIS program. MIS students will be expected to know enough about CIS to work with those who do the more technical tasks. And they should be able to exercise good judgment about the need and appropriateness of various CIS projects.