Evaluating business information systems fit: from concept to practical application

Abstract

Attempting to explain information systems success and failure is a complex task. To measure it is perhaps more complex and compounded by difficulties related to the concept of measurement in a social context. The prevalent approach taken to date revolves around the concept of 'fit', as defined by the contingency approach in organizational theory. In reviewing this, a proposal is made for an interpretive approach to measurement. This paper attempts to provide such an approach through the development of a framework that aims to improve understanding for the researcher and practitioner alike. The formative part of the framework seeks to collect data relating to the fit of the information system and its environment along the dimensions of decision making, innovation and information acquisition and distribution. The latter part of the framework uses repertory grids to gain an understanding of both what is perceived as wrong with the system and what is perceived as wanted from the system; the latter acting as a basis for corrective action. A description of action research applying the framework in an organizational setting is given and representative empirical results are examined. The paper concludes with a discussion of the value of the framework and the major conclusions that can be drawn from its application.

Organizational adoption of enterprise resource planning systems: A conceptual framework

“…Up to now, researchers studying IS contingencies have typically focused on the fit between specific organizational dimensions and IS, but these studies were not developed for ERP systems (Kanellis, Lycett, & Paul, 1999;Livari, 1992). If ERP is not integrated into the organization in a real manner, it will not be used efficiently and return on investment from the projects will be negative.…”

A study of issues relating to information management across engineering SMEs

“…To begin to address some of these issues, some research has been undertaken across a variety of different business sectors which deals with the assessment and evaluation of IS (Delone & Van de Van, 1992;Kanellis et al, 1999). These techniques generally focus on post-implementation analysis and produce recommendations for corrective action.…”

“…More specifically, this includes consideration of the existing elements of the IS infrastructure, business strategy, particular internal processes, technology, environment, employees, level of innovation and resources, rather than purely organisation structure and IT as has been the practise in the past (Kanellis, Lycett, & Paul, 1999).…”

Task-Technology Fit Theory: A Survey and Synopsis of the Literature

“…Recognition that information systems need to be well-suited to their intended tasks extends back at least as far as the origins of the information systems (IS) discipline (Kanellis et al 1999). Media richness theory has, for example, been founded on the premise that the decision to use a particular communication technology will be made based on the nature of the specific message to be conveyed (Daft et al 1987).…”