Towards formulating strategy and leveraging performance: a strategic information systems planning approach

Abstract

Strategic Information Systems (SIS) are computerised information systems that align the use of Information Systems (IS) and Information Technology (IT) strategically with corporate strategies in organisations. This paper reviews the linkage of Strategic Information Systems Planning (SISP) to corporate the strategy formulation and performance measures, incorporating empirical findings acquired from an exploratory study of IS/IT practitioners in Hong Kong. The findings constitute the essential ingredients of the design and building of a generic SISP model and a series of implementation guidelines. Besides, useful data, information, rules and experiences acquired were incorporated into building a knowledge base for a prototype expert system, Expert Strategic Planner (ESP). The prototype system was developed to demonstrate how user organisations could redefine their businesses and leverage performance in the context of SISP. The 'Human/ESP' comparison on strategy choices of a selected firm was presented along with a discussion on the applicability of the SISP model and the possible directions for further research.