Final answer:
True, in designing a management information system, the first task is to clearly define the system's objectives to establish a foundation for planning and development, ensuring the goals are achievable and appropriate.
Step-by-step explanation:
In designing a management information system (MIS), it is indeed true that the first task is to clearly define the system's objectives. This foundational step is critical for determining the direction and scope of the MIS. Just like determining the system of interest in a physics problem, defining the objectives in a management information system lays the groundwork for subsequent planning and development.
By clarifying the objectives, you can ensure that the goals you establish are achievable and appropriate. Goals must be practical and within reach, necessitating a clear plan for how they are to be realized. This involves a thorough understanding of the current situation and a strategy for how the MIS will meet the business's needs.
In essence, setting the system's objectives is akin to defining your goals and audience for a project. Without a crystal-clear understanding of what you are trying to accomplish and for whom, any system you design will be poorly targeted and potentially ineffective.