Logisticians added the word logistics to management information system (MIS) to create logistics management
information system (LMIS). Logisticians want it clear that the collection of data for managing a logistics system
is a separate activity from the collection of data for other information systems, including health management
information systems (HMISs). An LMIS collects data about commodities; this information is often used
for activities, such as filling routine supply orders for health facilities. An HMIS collects information on
the total number of patients seen or diagnosed; data from an HMIS is not used as often as LMIS data—
i.e., annually—and it is used for different purposes—i.e., for evaluating program impact. Logisticians
emphasize the use of logistics data for making decisions about activities within the logistics cycle.