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A Case study approach to evaluation of Information Technology/Information systems
(IT/IS) investment evaluation processes within SMEs.
C. E. Hillam, H. M Edwards, School of Computing and Engineering Technology,
University Of Sunderland, uk.
Email addresses:
chris.hillam@sunderland.ac.uk,
helen.edwards@sunderland.ac.uk |
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ABSTRACT |
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This paper presents the preliminary findings of a case study
based research currently being undertaken into company approach to investment
and evaluation of information technology and information systems (IT/IS) within
Small to Medium sized Enterprises (SMEs). The work undertaken to date suggests
that within the first case study company there is a strong link between the
identified company strategy typology and the attitude of the company to IT/IS
investment, and the type of investment undertaken. Using an established
classification of company strategy typology the company was identified as an
organisation with a strong interest in evaluating and developing market
opportunities. The IT/IS investments recently made, have been planned and
implemented with a specific long-term aim of consolidating and strengthening the
company’s competitive position with certain key customers. There is a general
perception amongst company management that the company systems are successful,
and that company attitude to investment in new IT/IS is positive. Evaluation of
the investment was initially well planned and costed, although the ultimate
justification case was made on the basis of customer and market pressure. The
results emerging from the first stages of this study therefore suggest that
company strategy typology will influence a number of issues, including the type
of IT/IS implemented and the justification process for this investment. |
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