Information Systems &
Communication Technology

Modeling Tool Impact on Defect Identification in IS Design Full Text
Vol. 21, No. 2, p. 33
Michael A. Eierman, University of Wisconsin, Oshkosh
Bruce C. Hungerford, Univeristy of Wisconsin, Oshkosh

The Unified Modeling Language (UML) has received significant attention as the tool of the future for modeling information systems. However, prior to the development of the UML, IS modeling was done with tools such as Data Flow Diagrams (DFDs) and Entity-Relationship Diagrams (ERDs). These tools have been developed over many years of information systems development and taught to thousands of information systems professionals. Many organizations continue to use these tools, and many other organizations use these tools but are considering switching to the UML. While the UML is being promoted as the future of IS modeling, there is little empirical evidence that suggests it is a better tool than the traditional approach. This research seeks to inform the decision to adopt the UML over traditional modeling tools by examining the efficacy of the two modeling tools in the identification of design defects in an information system model. The study involved MIS students attempting to find defects embedded in a model of an information system. The study finds that students using UML were able to find approximately twice as many of the defects injected in the model as those using traditional modeling tools.

The Communication Effectiveness of System Models Using the UML versus Structured Techniques: A Field Experiment Full Text
Vol. 20, No. 2, p. 34
Bruce C. Hungerford, University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
Michael A. Eierman, University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh

The Unified Modeling Language has become an alterna-tive to traditional modeling languages such as data flow diagrams for use in systems analysis. A modeling language is used to represent an information system so that analysts can use the model to make decisions about the design of the system and to communicate with stakeholders about the system. This study examines the comparative effectiveness of the UML and traditional modeling languages in com-municating information about a system design. The study examines this on three types of individuals: individuals with no knowledge of either modeling language, individuals with no knowledge of either language that were provided training in one of the languages, and individuals that have had more extensive training in one of the languages. The study finds that there is no difference in the ability to communicate sys-tem design information between the languages for the first two types of individuals. However, the study finds that, for more extensively trained individuals, systems modeled with the UML are better able to communicate information about the data in the system while systems modeled with tradi-tional languages are better able to communicate information about the process used by the system.

A Cross-Industry Analysis of Large Firm Transactional Public Web Sites Full Text
Vol. 19, No. 1, p. 37
Dale Young, Georgia College and State University
John Benamati, Miami University

This study examines how the Fortune 500 use transactional public Web sites (TPWS). It applies innovation diffusion theory to identify variables and construct a model to explain differences in adoption rates of TPWS across industries. The study finds high rates of TPWS adoption in the airline, computer and office equipment, commercial banking, and retailing industries. The study also explains why the rates of TPWS adoption vary across different industries. Characteristics of both the innovation and the industry’s environment affect TPWS adoption. A high level of TPWS adoption is associated with industries where: products, services, and sales processes “fit” electronic transactions, the level of price competition is extreme, competitors are aggressively adopting the same technology, and firms are experienced with related technologies and have already developed the necessary information technology infrastructure. The study is significant because it identifies the specific innovation and environmental characteristics that drive varying rates of TPWS adoption among large firms across different industries.

Advanced Manufacturing Technology Investment Patterns  Full Text
Vol. 16, No. 1, p. 23  
Kenneth K. Boyer, Michigan State University

This study presents a longitudinal analysis of patterns of investment in advanced manufacturing technologies (AMT) and financial performance. Investments in AMT from fifty manufacturing plants in the metalworking industries are examined. Data was collected via mail surveys administered to fifty manufacturing plants at three separate data collection times: 1994, 1996, and 1998. This study seeks to fill a void in the area of technology management, which is comprised primarily of cross-sectional studies that do not address the dynamic nature of investments in technology. The results suggest differences in the evolutionary profile of several technologies, including e-mail, bar coding, robotics, and computer aided design. Further tests indicate that there is a positive relationship between many of these technologies and plant financial performance. Finally, the longitudinal data suggest that there is approximately a two-year time lag between investment in technology and performance improvements.

Information Systems Satisfaction: Investigating Attitudes during Development Full Text
Vol. 13, No. 2, p. 15  
Patricia A. Essex, Bowling Green State University

Previous studies have examined the satisfaction of users with information services, but most measured attitudes after use of the system had begun. The focus in this paper is upon the design and test of an instrument suitable for the systems development stage. The traditional "user satisfaction" construct is examined in two parts; user satisfaction with the process and user satisfaction with the product.

The research instrument was administered in an experimental environment that simulated a work situation. Participants were asked not only to do their "normal" tasks but also to cooperate in a systems development project. Some were placed into time-constrained situations; others were not.

Results indicate that the user satisfaction construct can be evaluated during development and should be separated from product satisfaction. Further, attitudes toward the process and about the product are correlated positively but they are not perfect substitutes. The experimental situation yielded some evidence that requiring people to participate on development teams without compensatory released time or other incentives is likely to make them negative about the process. Although this negativity is not fully transferred to attitudes toward the product, it does exist and needs to be managed effectively.

KEYWORDS AND PHRASES: Information System Success, User Satisfaction, Attitude Measurement, User Participation

 

TQM Stresses MIS Full Text
Vol. 13, No. 1, p. 59  
Michael S. Spencer, University of Northern Iowa
Leslie K. Duclos, University of Northern Iowa

As an operating philosophy, TQM has crossed departmental and disciplinary boundaries as a way to increase productivity and improve quality. Information Systems Managers, particularly those supporting legacy systems, face substantial challenges in an organization implementing TQM. A principle philosophy of TQM is that of con–tinuous improvement resulting in a continuous stream of change requests for the IS department. IS managers must understand this as a source of the increase in change re–quests and seek ways to successfully manage them. In the short run, one method is active participation on the qual–ity teams suggesting such changes. The long run, however, requires a proactive stance by the IS department that in–cludes implementation of the TQM philosophy throughout its own ranks. Otherwise, the IS department will continue to be stressed by an avalanche of change requests and viewed as a roadblock to successful TQM implementation.

A Framework for Service Mangement of Information Systems  Full Text
Vol. 13, No. 1, p. 49  
Gary M. Kern, Indiana University South Bend

Many information systems functions have made the transition from primarily providing their customer with information products to also providing their customers with information services. This change has implications for the way Management Information Systems (MIS) should be organized to best serve their customers. Rather than invent an entirely new approach to service design and management, MIS professionals can learn from the field of Service Management. Studying the techniques and concepts reported in Service Management, MIS professionals will find a wealth of information about improving customer service and satisfaction. This paper presents a framework for the management of information services. The framework adapts the Service Process Matrix and the Service Triad to form a basis for developing MIS architecture in support of service provision. Examples of how these concepts can be applied to MIS are provided throughout the discussion.

Mandatory Use of Electronic Mail and User Acceptance: A Case Study Full Text
Vol. 12, No. 2, p. 57  
Hao Lou, Ohio University
Anne McClanahan, Ohio University
Ellsworth Holden, Ohio University

This case study reports findings on user acceptance of an electronic mail system in a business college setting. It builds on earlier research of computer-mediated communication systems by Hiltz and Johnson (1989). Although the use of electronic mail system is mandatory in this organization, the overall results are parallel to earlier findings in terms of usage, satisfaction with, and perceived outcomes of the system. In contrast to a contention of earlier research, the current results suggest that mandatory use of electronic mail can be an appropriate strategy for implementing such systems in organizations.

Information Systems in Business Process Reengineering:
An Exploratory Survey of Issues  Full Text
Vol. 12, No. 1, p. 7 
Hilbert K. Schultz, University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
Michael A. Eirman, University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh

[This study continues previous work reported in Vol. 10, No. 2 -Ed.-] Business Process Reengineering (BPR) is the radical, cross-functional redesign of the standard operating practices used by organizations to produce or achieve certain outcomes. While BPR has received considerable attention from practitioners and consultants, there has been little empirical research published on BPR. This study explores why and how organizations are using business process reengineering and identifies problems that effect reengineering success. The results showed that organizations generally considered themselves successful at reengineering. However, while they achieved significant improvement in process operation, they were not achieving the order of magnitude improvements ascribed to reengineering.

KEYWORDS: IS Planning, Organizational Use of IS, Strategic IS, Competitive Use of IS, Business Process Reengineering Process Innovation, Process Redesign

Procedures for Improving Security of Local Area Networks Full Text
Vol. 11, No. 1, p.49 
Susan D. Haugen, University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
James E. LaBarre, University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
Willard M. Korn, University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire

Security of data information has always been a concern for business organizations. With recent trends toward down-sizing and the implementation of Local Area Networks, the necessity for the development of carefully formulated policies and procedures for data security has taken on a new emphasis. Auditors are responsible for the verification of security measures, as well as recommending corrective actions or proper measures when risks and exposures are found. The authors provide an overview of the important security considerations, identify threats common to the data and information managed by the organization, and recommend procedures to effectively secure the Local Area Network.

Business Process Reengineering: Issues for Research and Practice Full Text
Vol. 10, No.2, p.5 
Michael A. Eierman, University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
Hilbert K. Schultz, University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh

Business Process Reengineering (BPR) is the radical, cross-functional redesign of the standard operating practices used by organizations to produce or achieve certain outcomes. BPR has received considerable attention from practitioners and consultants. However, the academic literature is relatively quiet on the subject. The objective of this study is to identify the issues and questions associated with BPR that need to be addressed through research.

Keywords: Planning, Organizational Use of IS, Strategic IS, Competitive Use of IS, Business Process Reengineering Process Innovation, Process Redesign

Incorporating Reasoning by Analogy as a DSS Tool Full Text
Vol. 9, No. 1, p.41 
T. M. Rajkumar, Miami University
Dale Young, Miami University

This paper reports a study that incorporated a reasoning analogy (RBA) system into a business simulation game of the microcomputer industry. The RBA system was designed to support a manager's intuition and judgment by facilitating the use of analogies. Users search for comparable (i.e., analogous) firms through a simple pattern-matching routine built into the system. We argue for including RBA tools within decision support systems in order to facilitate analogical reasoning by decision makers. The study results support the conclusion that implementation of RBA systems significantly improves decision making effectiveness. The design and implementation of an RBA system, including the environmental scanning required to create the databases needed to support the system, is described and implications for practitioners and designers are discussed.

The Influence of Electronic Transmission on Written Communication Full Text
Vol. 7, No. 2, p.3 
Joel P. Bowman, Western Michigan University

The primary objectives of the study were to determine the principal influences of electronic mediation on text-based communication as perceived by experienced users and to provide a basis for additional research including nonusers and novice users. To achieve the first objective, the Delphi technique was employed to obtain the opinions of experienced users of computer-based communication systems. The members of the Delphi panel failed to reach consensus on any of more than eighty issues, and the three rounds of questionnaires showed little movement in the direction of consensus. The study thus confirms reports of wide variation in style and content of computer-based messages and underscores the need for additional research in techniques and strategies that influence the readability and effectiveness of electronic messages.

The Computerization of Record Systems: A Study of Selected Businesses Full Text
Vol. 7, No. 1, p.49
Carol A. Lundgren, Eastern Illinois University
Terry D. Lundgren, Eastern Illinois University

This research seeks to determine the extent and direction of computerization of records systems in businesses with identifiable records departments. The data collection methodology was on-site interviews and inspection of facilities in ten businesses selected from cities with populations of more than 100,000 in the western United States. The findings indicate that records managers are rapidly installing computer programs for tracking records. There was little evidence that traditional paper records were being moved to a digital format though the possibility was mentioned frequently. Records management and data processing departments cooperate, but no trend to integrate them is evident.

Decentralizing the Information Systems Function: What and How Much to Take Back Full Text
Vol. 6, No. 2, p.45
Ted R. Compton, Ohio University

Russell Ackoff, in his often cited article "Management Misinformation Systems," discussed some problems that were associated with the highly centralized and tightly controlled data processing departments that existed during the 1960's. Many of those problems are currently being addressed as users undertake more of the responsibility for the dissemination of information technology. However, the jury is still out on the benefits of decentralization. This article discusses many of the problems associated with the decentralization phenomenon, as well as recommending how one might deal with many of these organizational issues.

An MIS Design Framework for Financial Planning and Budgeting System Full Text
Vol. 4, No. 2, p. 21
Roger L. Hayen, Central Michigan University
Richard L. Hartley, Central Michigan University
Edward J. Fisher, Central Michigan University

Virtually all businesses must perform financial planning and budgeting. The paper presents a normative design framework for developing a management information system to support these activities. The design sustains planning processes across organizational levels. The system may be evoked with either a modeling or budgeting orientation which supports bottom-up, top-down, or inside-out planning. An analysis function forges a link between top-down and bottom-up planning. This linkage provides flexibility in developing alternative business plans. The normative design provides a standard for creating and evaluating alternative system designs, to determine the most appropriate system for a particular business situation.

 

The Expert System as a Decision Support Tool Full Text
Vol. 3, No. 1, p. 47
Lawrence O. Jenicke, Central Michigan University

The commercial application of expert systems indicates a role for this technology as a competitive tool in a wide variety of business activities. The ability of an expert system to duplicate the problem-solving process of a human expert can be utilized in the managerial decision process. Two potential roles of expert systems in this function are examined: a direct role in decision support and an indirect role in systems support. A discussion of the limitations of current expert systems technology yields several observations concerning the function of expert systems in a decision support environment. A strategy is presented to assist in identifying potential areas for developing expert system applications and evaluating their feasibility.

 

Effective Computer Selection for a Small Business Full Text
Vol. 2, No. 1, p. 36
Jatinder N.D. Gupta, Ball State University
Thomas M. Harris, Ball State University
Donald F. Kuratko, Ball State University

Computer use has become so common that most people think using one should increase the efficiency and effectiveness of business operations. Guided by these perceptions, a small business executive could invest in computers only to find that the cost incurred in the acquisition and use of the equipment are more than its benefits. This paper discusses computer selection in a small business and describes guidelines for making an effective computer equipment selection such that the benefits of its use are more than the total costs associated with it. These guidelines are simple, straight-forward and can be implemented by a small business executive to increase the total profits of the firm without the need for any elaborate resources.

 

Changing Computer Technology: What Can Managers Do? Full Text
Vol. 1, No. 1, p. 39
Jo Ann Verdin, University of Illinois
Anthony M. Pagano, University of Illinois

How will flexible work sites, robotics, or office automation affect a business? Today's mangers must learn new skills related to computer technology if they are to be an innovative force in the company's growth.