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1. Analytic hierarchy process (AHP): A decision-making technique that helps prioritize options
by structuring complex problems into a hierarchy of criteria and alternatives.
2. Competitive advantage: A unique advantage that a company gains over its competitors
through various means, including the effective use of information technology.
3. Direct conversion: The immediate replacement of an old system with a new one, often
involving a complete transition without any parallel operation.
4. Information technology (IT): The use of computers, software, networks, and related
technologies to store, process, transmit, and manage information.
5. Information technology investment: Allocation of resources, typically financial, into IT assets,
projects, or initiatives to achieve specific business objectives.
6. Management information systems (MIS): Systems that provide managers with information
and reports to support decision-making and organizational activities.
7. Managerial risks: Risks associated with the decisions made by managers, including those
related to IT investments and strategies.
8. Operational planning: The process of setting specific goals and strategies for day-to-day
operations within an organization.
9. Parallel conversion: The simultaneous use of both old and new systems during a transitional
period to minimize disruptions.
10. Phased conversion: The gradual transition from an old system to a new one in multiple
phases or stages.
11. Personal computer (PC): A small, self-contained computer designed for individual use.
12. Physical risks: Risks associated with the physical security and integrity of IT assets, such as
hardware and data centers.
13. Productivity paradox: The phenomenon where increased IT investment does not always lead
to proportional increases in productivity.
14. Sequential decision process: A decision-making approach where choices are made in a
predetermined order, typically one after the other.
15. Stakeholders: Individuals or groups who have an interest in or are affected by the outcomes
of an IT investment or project.
16. Strategic planning: The process of defining long-term goals and objectives and developing
strategies to achieve them.
17. System software: Software that manages and controls computer hardware and provides a
platform for running application software.
18. Tactical planning: The process of developing short-to-medium-term plans and actions to
implement an organization's strategic goals.
19. Pilot conversion: The initial implementation of a new system in a limited area or with a small
group of users to assess its effectiveness before full deployment.
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Discussion Questions according to 'information technology investment management " 1. Why is the
“productivity paradox” important in IT investment decision-making? 2. Why is there such diversity in
the types of IT investment decision-making problems? 3. What is the relationship between the
components of an MIS and the use of IT investment decision-making methodologies? That is, give
examples of the MIS components that might require an investment. 4. Why is it important to
consider the limitations of IT investment decision-making methodologies in an analysis? 5. Why is it
important to see where IT investment decision-making fits into the overall planning of business
organizations? discuss briefly
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1. Why is the "productivity paradox" important in IT investment decision-making?
The productivity paradox refers to the observation that increased investments in IT
don't always lead to expected improvements in productivity. This is crucial in IT
investment decision-making because it challenges the assumption that more
spending on technology will automatically result in better business outcomes.
Understanding this paradox prompts organizations to critically evaluate their IT
investments, ensuring that they align with strategic goals and can deliver tangible
benefits.
2. Why is there such diversity in the types of IT investment decision-making problems?
The diversity in IT investment decision-making problems stems from various factors,
including differences in organizational goals, industries, technologies, and market
conditions. Each organization faces unique challenges and opportunities, requiring
tailored IT investment strategies. Moreover, the rapid evolution of IT introduces new
complexities, making it essential to adapt decision-making processes to the specific
context.
3. What is the relationship between the components of an MIS and the use of IT investment
decision-making methodologies? That is, give examples of the MIS components that might
require an investment.
Management Information Systems (MIS) components, such as data storage and
processing, reporting and analysis tools, and communication infrastructure, often
require investments in IT. For example:
Data storage and processing components may require investments in
scalable databases and servers to handle growing data volumes.
Reporting and analysis tools may require regular updates or the adoption of
advanced analytics platforms.
Communication infrastructure may need investments to support remote work
or improve network security.
4. Why is it important to consider the limitations of IT investment decision-making
methodologies in an analysis?
Recognizing the limitations of IT investment decision-making methodologies is
crucial for making informed choices. Some limitations may include biases in data,
assumptions, or models used in decision-making. Acknowledging these limitations
helps organizations avoid overreliance on quantitative models and encourages a
more holistic approach that considers qualitative factors and expert judgment,
improving the accuracy of investment decisions.
5. Why is it important to see where IT investment decision-making fits into the overall planning
of business organizations? Discuss briefly.
IT investment decision-making must align with the overall planning of business
organizations for several reasons:
Strategic Alignment: IT investments should support the organization's
strategic goals and objectives. Integrating IT decision-making into overall
planning ensures that resources are allocated to projects that contribute to
the business's long-term success.
Resource Allocation: Organizations have limited resources, and IT investments
compete with other initiatives for funding. Proper alignment ensures that
resources are allocated efficiently across different business functions.
Risk Management: Integrating IT investment decisions into overall planning
allows organizations to assess and mitigate risks comprehensively,
considering both IT-specific risks and their broader business impact.
Accountability: Placing IT investments within the broader planning framework
helps assign responsibility for outcomes and ensures that decisions are made
in the best interest of the organization as a whole.
conceptual question :
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Certainly! Please feel free to ask your conceptual question, and I'll do my best to provide a clear and
informative answer.
1. Describe different types of IT investment decisions managers face: This objective implies
understanding the various types of investments in information technology that managers encounter.
This could include investments in hardware, software, cybersecurity, infrastructure, or digital
transformation initiatives. Differentiating between these types of investments and understanding
their implications is crucial.
4. Explain some of the limitations that should be considered when using IT investment
methodologies: This objective highlights the constraints and challenges associated with IT
investment methodologies. It involves discussing factors such as uncertainties in technology,
changing market conditions, implementation risks, and the limitations of financial models.
Understanding these limitations is crucial for making informed decisions.