TABLE OF CONTENTS Graham Curtis and David Cobham
The subject of this chapter is to expand on the relationship between strategy and information systems. Initially the need for a business strategy is explained together with a suggested overview of the business strategic planning process. The way in which this necessitates an information systems strategy is covered. There are many frameworks within which information systems strategy can be viewed. One framework is outlined and its various components are explained. Each emphasizes a different perspective on the issues that a firm may wish to take into account when formulating strategy. They all have one feature in common though they acknowledge the need for an information systems strategy to be determined by the business needs of the organization, not by the functions of available technology.
A business will function on a day-to-day basis without the obvious need for a business strategy. Orders will be taken from customers, goods dispatched, invoices sent and payments from customers acknowledged. Where stock runs low, purchase orders will be drafted and sent, goods will be received, stock stored and inventory records updated and when the invoices arrive from the suppliers these will be authorized for payment and payment made. Work will be scheduled and products manufactured. Payroll will produce payslips and instruct banks to make automated payment of wages and salaries at the end of the month. Sales reps cars will be put into garages for maintenance, bills received and so on.
