An Overview of Executive Information Systems (EIS) Research in South Africa

Abstract

Executive information systems (EIS) are designed to serve the needs of executive users in strategic planning and decision- making. Sometimes the terms “executive information systems” and “executive support systems” are used interchangeably (Turban, McLean, & Wetherber, 1999). Definitions of EIS are varied but all identify the need for information that support decisions about the organization. EIS can be defined as “a computerized system that provides executives with easy access to internal and external information that is relevant to their critical success factors” (Watson, Houdeshel, & Rainer, 1997). This article is organized as follows: The background to EIS implementation is given. EIS research studies undertaken in South Africa are then described. Some future EIS trends are then suggested.