E-Business Innovation and Process Management

Abstract

As the criticality of email for electronic business activity increases, ad-hoc email implementation, prolonged management neglect and user abuse of email systems have generated negative effects. However, managements ability to rectify problems with email systems is hindered by our understanding of its organisational use. Research on email systems is often dated, and based on quantitative methodologies that cannot explain the interaction between various controls in organisational settings. Updating our understanding of the organisational aspects of email systems utilizing qualitative methods is necessary. This paper presents a multiple case study investigation of email system monitoring and control.The study examines the interaction between key elements of email control identified by previous researchers, and considers the role of such controls at various implementation phases. The findings reveal eight major elements to be particularly important in monitoring and controlling email systems within the organisations studied. These are: (1) form a crossfunctional email system management team; (2) implement and regularly update email management software; (3) formulate a detailed and legally sound email policy; (4) engage in structured email system training; (5) create and maintain ongoing awareness of email policy; (6) engage in a process of hybrid feedback and control based email monitoring; (7) firmly enforce discipline in accordance with the email policy; and (8) conduct regular reviews and updates of the email management programme.

Successful Internet Entrepreneurs: The Case of China

“…With the world going towards the digital age, internet remains one of the areas to venture in. Internet is playing greater roles in supporting business (Lee, 2007). It is through the internet that companies are able to communicate with their staff located in different parts of the world.…”