Lessons from enterprise systems competency centers in adopting digital transformation initiatives: An assemblage approach

2023 | Information and Organization | Citations: 0

Authors: Aryal, Arun; Truex, Duane; El Amrani, Redouane

Abstract: Firms are increasingly adopting digital transformation as a strategic priority. ... Expand

Abstract: Firms are increasingly adopting digital transformation as a strategic priority. However, the path to successful transformation remains uncertain for many organizations. This paper examines the establishment and evolution of competency centers in two case study organizations, historically used in enterprise systems, in addressing the complexity and challenges of digital transformation. The interactions within these competency centers are analyzed through assemblage theory to understand the emergent relations between heterogeneous parts (technology, people, and orga­ nization) and the dynamic processes of new configurations. The insights from this research show the critical role of the competency center in any enterprise system’s success and how it could continue playing a central role in future digital transformation initiatives. By providing a new lens to examine these issues, the assemblage theory provided a new theoretical perspective to the IS field and a new alternative empirical setting to the organizational literature. Collapse

Topics: enterprise information system digital transformation enterprise resource planning IT skill business process management

Methods: qualitative interview case study personal interview design artifact literature study

The argumentative salience of technology frames of reference: An analysis of argumentative discourse in the development of a health information exchange initiative

2023 | Information and Organization | Citations: 0

Authors: Murungi, David M.; Káganer, Evgeny

Abstract: This study examines the impact that the argumentative salience of technology fra ... Expand

Abstract: This study examines the impact that the argumentative salience of technology frames of refer­ ences has on the execution of complex IS implementation projects. It employs Toulmin's argument model to develop argument maps that depict the structure of argumentation that took place during the development and implementation of an interorganizational health information ex­ change initiative (HIE) that took place in southeast USA. Toulmin's argument model faciliated the portrayal of frame salience in terms of three structural properties (i.e., blindness, indifference, and ownership). The study used these properties to show how the breadth, depth and conspicuity of frame structures changed during the course of the project and demonstrated how these changes impacted both the level of contestation observed in the project as well as project outcomes. In addition to lending insights that are specific to this case, our conceptualization of frame structure lends itself to cross-case comparisons and future theory building as the impact of these argument structures can be evaluated in a multitude of different contexts. Collapse

Topics: IT alignment IT project systems implementation health information system information exchange

Methods: qualitative interview theory development qualitative coding case study personal interview

Theories: argumentation theory

A framework for applying ethics-by-design to decision support systems for emergency management

2023 | Information Systems Journal | Citations: 0

Authors: Nussbaumer, Alexander; Pope, Andrew; Neville, Karen

Abstract: The development and utilisation of new information and communication technologie ... Expand

Abstract: The development and utilisation of new information and communication technologies presents opportunities and risks, which bring ethical issues to the forefront. Any attempt to minimise the potential negative consequences to individuals, organisations and society resulting from the use of these technologies is challenging. In order to address these challenges, this paper presents an ethics-by-design approach that has been developed and implemented in the context of Decision Supports Systems for Emergency Management. Such systems help manage large and cross-border disasters by supporting decision makers to respond on emergencies in a reasonable way by taking follow-up actions into account. The approach taken in this paper specifically provides means to support the ethical dimensions of these decisions. Actions taken during disasters can have ramifications that persist long after a disaster has passed. The ethics-by-design approach presented here not only informs the design of systems, but also considers the role and training of the decision makers in the design process. The paper builds on the literature on ethics in information systems and makes a contribution to theory by providing a framework to ensure ethical considerations are embedded into the design of systems. Collapse

Topics: decision support system systems design decision making research and development privacy

Methods: focus group design process literature study design principle design framework

Digital transformation in high-reliability organizations: A longitudinal study of the micro-foundations of failure

2023 | Journal of Strategic Information Systems | Citations: 0

Authors: Poláková - Kersten, Martina; Khanagha, Saeed; van den Hooff, Bart; Khapova, Svetlana N.

Abstract: High-reliability organizations (HROs) and their complex operating models have be ... Expand

Abstract: High-reliability organizations (HROs) and their complex operating models have been a focus of scholarly work for more than three decades. Recently, HROs have been challenged by new market pressures that require them to digitally transform in ways that affect their identity and value creation models while still maintaining high levels of security and efficiency. This longitudinal, in-depth single-case study of a major European utility company examines the role of HRO identity in digital transformation (DT), specifically in terms of tensions between innovation and trans­ formation on the one hand, and maintaining reliable operations on the other. Our findings show how tensions between HROs’ identity and key features of DT give rise to threat perceptions and self-protective behaviors by the IT workforce, that eventually may derail the transformation process. We develop a process model that highlights the sources and consequences of identity misalignment during major DT initiatives in HROs. In doing so, we extend the research on D T by highlighting the importance of bottom-up processes for DT success and failure, especially con­ cerning the IT function’s perception of organizational identity. Collapse

Topics: IT workforce digital transformation human resource management innovation management value creation

Methods: qualitative interview case study business process modeling longitudinal research survey

Investigating information and communication technology-enabled national development as a multi-level social process

2023 | Information Systems Journal | Citations: 0

Authors: Ramadani, Luthfi; Breidbach, Christoph F.; Kurnia, Sherah

Abstract: Are centralised or decentralised strategies more suitable to address a developin ... Expand

Abstract: Are centralised or decentralised strategies more suitable to address a developing nation's socio-economic challenges through information and communication technology (ICT)? We respond to this long-standing question by conceptualising ICT-enabled national development as a multi-level social process and by drawing on empirical findings from a natural experiment set in the context of health information system projects in Indonesia. Our study demonstrates that successful ICT-enabled national development is not contingent on pursuing one strategy or the other but on how micro-level actors interpret, and subsequently respond to, these strategies and the local changes they trigger. Our findings indicate that centralisation and decentralisation are complementary rather than competing strategies to ICT-enabled national development because, if integrated into a hybrid strategy, decentralisation enables local communities to achieve national development outcomes commonly attributed to centralisation. As such, our work provides empirical evidence, explanations and new theoretical insight into the wider ‘centralisation versus decentralisation’ debate, while also outlining avenues for future research and guidelines for policymakers. Collapse

Topics: laptop computer information technology infrastructure health information system IT skill human resource management

Methods: qualitative interview case study natural experiment field study personal interview

Exploring Hybrid Project Management Methodologies and Selection Processes

2023 | Americas Conference on Information Systems | Citations: 0

Authors: Reed, April; Angolia, Mark

Abstract: Project management methodology is important to the success of a project. Howeve ... Expand

Abstract: Project management methodology is important to the success of a project. However, changes in technology and practitioner approach have led to a mix of methodologies known as hybrid. This research sought to identify the types of project management methodologies practitioners currently use and determine factors that impact how a project manager selects a methodology.A survey questionnaire was used to identify methodologies and types of project management tools, techniques, and processes used. Correlation and chi-square analysis analyzed if three specific factors (industry, project manager experience level, and technology project type) influenced the selection of a predictive, adaptive, or hybrid methodology. The results showed that industry and technology project type are factors in the methodology selection, but project manager years of experience was not. Overall, the analysis supported that there is no "one size fits all" when it comes to methodology selection, but hybrid is emerging as the predominant approach. KeywordsProject management methodology; hybrid project management; agile project management; predictive project management; traditional project management; project processes. Collapse

Topics: project management IT project Six Sigma systems development systems analysis

Methods: survey correlation analysis descriptive statistic

An Empirical Investigation on Business Analytics in Software and Systems Development Projects

2023 | Information Systems Frontiers | Citations: 0

Authors: Ahmad, Muhammad Ovais; Ahmad, Iftikhar; Rana, Nripendra P.; Khan, Iqra Sadaf

Abstract: To create competitive advantages, companies are leaning towards business analyti ... Expand

Abstract: To create competitive advantages, companies are leaning towards business analytics (BA) to make data-driven decisions. Nevertheless, users acceptance and effective usage of BA is a key element for its success. Around the globe, organizations are increasingly adopting BA, however, a paucity of research on examining the drivers of BA adoption and its continuance is noticeable in the literature. This is evident in developing countries where a higher number of systems and software development projects are outsourced. This is the first study to examine BA continuance in the context of software and systems development projects from the perspective of Pakistani software professionals. The data was collected from 186 Pakistani software professionals working in software and systems development projects. The data were analyzed using partial least squares - structural equation modelling techniques. Our structural model explains 45% variance on BA continuance intention, 69% variance on technological compatibility, and 59% variance on perceived usefulness. Our results show that confirmation has a direct impact on BA continuance intention in software and systems projects. The study has both theoretical and practical implications for professionals in the field of business analytics. Collapse

Topics: perceived usefulness IT development project IT project systems development IT workforce

Methods: survey partial least squares path modeling machine learning conceptual modelling data transformation

Theories: expectation confirmation theory

Business-IT alignment as a coevolution process: An empirical study

2023 | Journal of Strategic Information Systems | Citations: 0

Authors: Amarilli, Fabrizio; Van Den Hooff, Bart; Van Vliet, Mario

Abstract: In this paper, we provide a detailed insight into the complex coevolution dynami ... Expand

Abstract: In this paper, we provide a detailed insight into the complex coevolution dynamics that shape the alignment process by analyzing how different mechanisms and factors are mutually related in complex networks of feedback loops. We combine insights from the literature on alignment as a (coevolution) process with literature on alignment as a state to identify the different components of the organization’s socio-technical system that influence alignment, the relationships between these components, and the role that different factors play. In our empirical analysis (based multiple case studies) we then focus on the actual interplay between relevant factors. Using a causal loop diagramming approach - based on system dynamics – we analyze how these factors mutually influence each other through various feedback loops and thus shape the alignment process. We extend previous literature on the alignment process by identifying the way that the complex interplay between different factors shapes this process. By identifying the feedback loops between relevant factors, we also provide more insight into the complex bottom-up and top-down dynamics that shape the process, and that provide explanations for why this process is charac­ terized by transitions between alignment and misalignment. For practice, our paper provides a deeper understanding of the alignment process, which is a precondition for improving alignment practices in organisations. Collapse

Topics: Chief Information Officer IT alignment strategic management IT project enterprise information system

Methods: qualitative interview case study multiple case study theoretical contribution system dynamics

Theories: co-evolution theory socio technical theory complex adaptive system

Scaled Agile Framework Meets Traditional Management – A Case of a Financial Services Provider

2023 | International Conference on Information Systems | Citations: 0

Authors: Bitzer, Michael; Brax, Franziska; Teuchert, Antonie

Abstract: Inspired by the success of agile practices in small teams, organizations seek t ... Expand

Abstract: Inspired by the success of agile practices in small teams, organizations seek to achieve agility at scale, leading to large-scale agile transformations. Several frameworks have been developed to guide organizations through this process. While multiple challenges for adopting scaled agile frameworks have already been identified, research on the interplay between traditional management approaches and scaled agile frameworks is scarce. We conduct an in-depth exploratory case study with a German financial services provider to identify tensions that arise when applying a scaled agile framework in a non-agile environment. As a result, we derive 13 tensions along with three areas: goal-setting, planning, and reporting. Thereby, we advance the understanding of tensions within large-scale agile transformations and provide a foundation for future research on scaled agile practices in traditional organizations. Further, we provide insights for managers to ensure the successful application of scaled agile frameworks. Collapse

Topics: scaled agile framework agile software development Scrum marketing management customer relationship management

Methods: qualitative interview design methodology case study triangulation personal interview

Unexpected Events in IT Projects: A Conceptual Review and Research Agenda

2023 | Communications of the Association for Information Systems | Citations: 0

Authors: Coulon, Thibaut; Paré, Guy; Barki, Henri

Abstract: When unexpected events occur, IT project teams need to react appropriately in o ... Expand

Abstract: When unexpected events occur, IT project teams need to react appropriately in order to limit the potentially negative, and sometimes disastrous consequences of such events. Yet, while past research has identified unexpected events as being an important aspect to consider when managing projects, the existing literature does not provide a clear conceptualization of this concept which limits the development of new theories and thus the ability to guide practitioners. Based on a literature review and to advance our understanding of unexpected events in IT projects and their effective management, and facilitate future theoretical developments on IT project management, the present paper develops a conceptualization that clearly distinguishes this concept from other closely related ones, as well as proposing a research framework that links it to IT project team responses and their consequences. A detailed research agenda, integrating current advances in different fields, is developed to highlight future research avenues. Collapse

Topics: IT project project management IT project team database system sensemaking

Methods: literature sample literature study synthesis literature filtering