Final answer:
Information systems (IS) are broader than information technology (IT) because IS involves not just hardware and software, but also the people, processes, and data that are part of an organization's operations. GIS software and digital technology are examples of IT components that are integrated into IS. IS is essential in managing technology effectively within the context of organizational strategies and processes.
Step-by-step explanation:
One could argue that information systems (IS) are much more than information technology (IT) because IS encompasses the entire scope of managing and processing information within an organization, which includes not only technology but also people, processes, and data. The statement that IT is just hardware and software is more accurate than the other given options. IT refers to the physical devices, as well as the software used for managing and processing information, whereas IS is the system that includes IT as well as the people who use the technology, the processes they follow, and the data they manage. This distinction underlines how human elements, organizational processes, and technologies all contribute to the functionality of IS. Consequently, IS is deeply integrated into organizational strategy and operations, aiming to support and enhance business processes, decision-making, and competitive advantage.
Digital technology and GIS software are examples of IT components that are integral to IS. The use and management of these technologies, particularly in fields such as urban planning or business consulting, illustrate that IS includes the interaction of technology, processes, and human expertise. Therefore, IS not only involves the technology one can purchase but also the methodology, human interaction, and organizational context in which the technology is used.