Strategic Information Systems Planning in United Arab Emirates Organizations

Abstract

This exploratory research focuses on SISP approaches in UAE organizations and their potential impacts on IS&T investment. The study uses a survey and simple model to characterize, classify and examine SISP approaches in 17 UAE organizations. Four typical cases deemed representative of the main SISP categories were examined further to determine specific strengths and weaknesses, and to appraise the suitability and effectiveness of each category considering the organization culture and business environment. The study concludes with emphasis on the importance of SISP to UAE organizations’ ability to achieve their business goals. It also suggests that the proposed SISP classification model can be used by UAE and Arab organizations to identify any inadequacies in their existing SISP approaches, and understand the cultural shift needed to adjust these approaches to guide effective investment in IS&T that is aligned with business strategy and focused on business objectives and goals.