The implementation of an information system

In the modern world information systems (I-S.) allow businesses to change and restructure in order to meet the demands placed on them by the dynamic world. In the past, because change was not required, organisations evolved into rigid structures which meant that change was problematic.<br/><br/>The ability to select and implement effective I.S. in any organisation is critical to its success. It is no longer the case of simply installing a network of computers for data input but a case of restructuring the business processes to make that organisation more able to function in an increasingly interconnected world. This can lead to new opportunities and competitive advantage if implemented successfully and ruin if not. The importance and use of business analysis, selection, evaluation and implementation methods to carry out such a task is crucial.<br/><br/>The objective of the research is to examine the project life cycle of implementing an 'off the shelf' I.S. within an organisation in order to determine how effective they are and what quantifiable benefits such projects bring to the organisation. All too often in the news we here stories of failed I.T. projects. New systems have either failed to deliver on time, to budget, failed to improve business processes or have even been abandoned before the end of the project. Emphasis will be placed on a systems review and implementation project at a manufacturing S.M.E. called Company A.<br/><br/>Company A face continued pressure from key customers for faster distribution and high quality goods while cutting back on cost. This means that that the organisation, which once prided itself on high quality internal production, now looks to overseas factories to meet their capacity whilst still being responsible for the design, quality and distribution of their product.<br/><br/>New technology is playing an important and increasing role in aiding the company meet its objectives with the introduction of a new integrated I.S.<br/><br/>The new system is geared specifically towards supply and distribution, is industry specific, and allows improved control of the company's supply chain performance, offering a much greater control of stock, individual sales and sourcing orders<br/><br/>The thesis concludes that manufacturing S.M.E.'s are likely to find it increasingly imperative to streamline business processes in order to meet targets and deadlines set by economic factors and customer demands. New technologies and the methods utilised will continue to play a central role in achieving this.

Name dc:type.qualificationname

Master's Thesis

Level dc:type.qualificationlevel

Student thesis

Year dc:date.issued

2008

Author dc:creator

• Woolfall, Martyn

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Tubb, Christopher

• information systems
• System design
• Information technology -- Management
• Soft systems methodology (SSM)
• Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises

Language dc:language

eng

Identifier

oai:pure.atira.dk:studenttheses/8f519a9c-0d47-4357-80d4-a4da700ab72c

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:pure.atira.dk:studenttheses/8f519a9c-0d47-4357-80d4-a4da700ab72c