Complex Information Systems Research Articles

Collaboration Challenges and the Construction of Complex Data Systems: Lessons from the Development of the Illinois Longitudinal Data System

Over the last several years, government has invested heavily to create state longitudinal data systems. Policymakers stand poised to make use of these new systems to inform decision making in ways that were not possible in the past. Building such data systems requires the formation of complex networks involving the coordination and cooperation of large numbers of actors. Building these networks is no easy task and must be undertaken with careful planning. Employing Thomson and Perry's collaboration framework as a tool for analysis, this article examines the construction of one such data system, the Illinois Longitudinal Data System (ILDS), and offers lessons learned based on the successes and failures of its development. Findings focused on the role that negative histories and mandated formation play in network development.

Implementation and operation aspects of a system for detecting abnormally level of user activity

The present paper discusses various aspects of embedding the intrusion detection system based on the personal adaptive behavior profile into the existing complex information system. The paper proposes the classification of types of access to the target information infrastructure in order to assess the feasibility of the established system integration. The criteria for evaluating the effectiveness of the implementation of the established system are also described. A method for calculating the dynamic threshold level of abnormality is proposed in the present research. The paper also considers a technique of adjusting the sensitivity of the system in case of abnormal user behavior. The paper describes the approach used for system scaling in case of an increase in the intensity of the incoming requests.

Information granulation for rough fuzzy hypergraphs

Rough-granular computing is a basic model for applying the concept of both rough set theory and granular computing methodology into different knowledge discovery processes; to classify data sets. In the literature, authors have used techniques of rough-granular computing which involve the construction of certain generalizations of Pawlak’s rough set model by deploying sets with structures such as graphs or, more generally, hypergraphs. Indeed, a hypergraph model, with its fairly strong descriptive potential to analyze structures of complex information systems, has occupied a central position in granular computing. A specific concern for this paper is to provide a generalization of the formulation of approximations in rough set model of information granulation. Generalized approximation operators are constructed to account for various combinations of information resident in input granules, instead of mere local descriptions of specific parts of an information system at multiple levels of attributes. An algorithm which describes information granulation for hypergraphs and accounts for information provided by overlapping granules is constructed and illustrated. Finally, an extension of this generalized technique to fuzzy hypergraph models is indicated.

Explaining value co-creation and co-destruction in e-government using boundary object theory

This article contributes to the understanding of e-government collaboration, value co-creation and co-destruction when using information systems (IS) artifacts. This is achieved through case study research, based on collaborations between the Swedish Forest Agency and external communities that were intended to co-create value. The collaborations were supported by an IS environment, comprising two IS artifacts that has been in use for several years. The analysis was based on sociomaterial boundary object theory. The philosophical framework underpinning the investigation of the interplay between technological and social aspects of the IS-enabled co-creation processes, i.e. the collaborations, was critical realism. The purpose of this article is, therefore, to analyze the co-creation processes supported by the IS artifacts (viewed as boundary objects) and to consider the outcomes, in terms of value co-creation and co-destruction, of the collaborations.The results show that value is both co-created and co-destroyed in the collaborative processes. The main conclusions are: (i) it is difficult to define value co-creation and co-destruction when the boundaries between collaborating communities are complex; (ii) when boundaries are complex, collaboration requires complex IS artifacts; (iii) the risk of co-destruction outcomes increases with boundary complexity. Finally, the article demonstrates that sociomaterial boundary objects provide a suitable theoretical framework for investigations of value co-creation and co-destruction through IS artifacts in e-government.

Scaling Information Infrastructures: the Case of the Medical Licensing System in a Southeast Asian Country

Scaling health information system from small scale pilots to national systems in developing countries poses a key challenge to system designers and health managers. As a consequence, many projects dissolve and die before they reach the scale where they are useful for information management. The concept of bootstrapping from the Information Infrastructure literature has proven useful to discuss and understand how to initiate and grow large-scale, complex and networked information systems from scratch. We use this concept to analyze and discuss an empirical case of building a large scale medical licensing system in a Southeast Asian country. Beyond describing the process leading up to the success of the licensing system, we contribute by identifying a range of factors influencing the bootstrapping process and we suggest extensions to make the bootstrapping strategy relevant in this context.

Comprehensive fuzzy FMEA model: a case study of ERP implementation risks

Failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA) is a prominent engineering technique for eliminating the potential failures emerged from various systems such as products, processes, designs, or systems. In the traditional FMEA, for each risk factor, severity, occurrence, and detectability ratings are multiplied and risk ranking number (RPN) is calculated. However, traditional FMEA has been subject of severe criticism in the literature and significant efforts have been made to overcome the shortcomings of the RPN. The present paper aims to put a step forward to enhance fuzzy FMEA by proposing a hybrid multi-attribute decision making model by combining fuzzy preference programming, fuzzy cognitive maps, and fuzzy graph-theoretical matrix approach. Fuzzy preference programming method is used to derive ratings of risk factors from incomplete, imprecise, and reciprocal pairwise comparison judgments. The causal dependencies among failure modes are modelled via fuzzy cognitive maps in order to capture the long term influences. Finally, fuzzy graph-theoretical matrix approach is employed to calculate risk priority indices of failure modes by taking into account interactions among risk factors. Although the FMEA method has been implemented in variety of technical problems, its potential in analyzing complex information systems have not been fully explored. Therefore, the proposed model is implemented in evaluating enterprise resource planning implementation risks in a real life case study.

A Web-Based DSS for the Selection, Implementation and Evaluation of ERP Systems

The Enterprise Resource Planning System is a huge and complex information system that enables the whole organization to operate, collaborate and coordinate its activities through the use of a single data repository. It is expensive to procure and takes a long time to implement. As such, organizations are extremely cautious before making the decision on ERP implementation. Once ERP is implemented, organizations need to continuously monitor its performance and its alignment with the organizations strategic objectives. In this paper we describe our work on the development of a web-based Decision Support System (DSS) that can help organizations to evaluate the success of their ERP implementation and measure the benefits obtained. The challenge of developing the tool lies in determining the criteria for an ERP implementation to be successful, identifying measurements of ERP benefits and ascertaining productivity indicators. To acquire all these yardsticks and measures we had to conduct a survey, case studies and interviews. Finally, all the findings were incorporated in the web-based DSS tool and we called this web based system, SEEBAS.

Relation granulation and algebraic structure based on concept lattice in complex information systems

Normally, there may exist some kind of relationship among different attribute values such as order relationship, similarity relationship or other more complicated relationship hidden in complex information systems. In the case, the binary relation on the universe is probably a kind of more general binary relation rather than equivalence relation, tolerance relation, order relation, etc. For the case, the paper tries to take concept lattice as theoretical foundation, which is appropriate very well for analyzing and processing binary relations, and finally proposes a new rough set model from the perspective of sub-relations. In the model, one general binary relation can be decomposed into several sub-relations, which can be viewed as granules to study algebraic structure and offer solutions to problems such as reduction, core. The algebraic structure mentioned above can organized all of relation granulation results in the form of lattice structure. In addition, the computing process based on concept lattice is often accompanied by high time complexity, aiming at the problem, the paper attempts to overcome it by introducing granular computing, and further converts complex information systems into relatively simple ones. In general, the paper is a new attempt and exploring to the fusion of rough set and concept lattice, and also offers a new idea for the expansion of rough set from the perspective of relation granulation.

A Systematic Framework for Multilevel Theorizing in Information Systems Research

Information systems (IS) research usually investigates phenomena at one level of analysis at a time. However, complex IS phenomena may be difficult to address from such a single-level perspective. A multilevel perspective offers an alternative means to examine phenomena by simultaneously accounting for multiple levels of analysis. Although useful guidelines for theory development are widely available, they give little specific attention to developing theory that is conceptualized and analyzed at multiple levels. Multilevel theorizing or developing theory from a multilevel perspective is more complex and involves unique challenges. To promote multilevel theorizing in the IS discipline, we focus on addressing challenges involved in multilevel theorizing and propose a holistic framework for systematically developing theory from a multilevel perspective. Drawing from the organization science and IS literature, the proposed framework harmonizes and synthesizes previous guidelines, providing a practical basis for conceptualizing and studying multilevel phenomena. The online appendix is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/isre.2017.0690 .

Оценка степени влияния сопутствующих факторов на показатели информационной безопасности

The paper considers the problem of improving the reliability of estimates of indicators providing information-without danger on the basis of constructing cognitive models related factors are associated with the process of formation and development of various types of information security threats. There are new types of assessments of safety performance to ensure a certain guaranteed level of the range of possible values of the index, which provides a more responsive and more accurate assessment of safety performance. Formed procedure for constructing cognitive models related factors, as well as evaluation of safety performance based on the cognitive model built. This procedure is demonstrated by a specific example. Problem analysis of the level of information security is an important component of the problem and ensure even improve the functioning of the object of protection. However, existing methods of assessing the safety level often rely on the use of expert methods for direct assessment of information security indicators that have relatively less complex objects and data systems makes it quite rough estimates due to the availability of a sufficiently large number of uncertain and random factors. Here to solve the problem of improvement of quality evaluation is proposed to clarify the process of formation of various types of threats on the basis of the construction of cognitive models describing the dependence of the considered threats to a variety of factors that can have a significant effect on the consideration of information without the threat-risk.

Managing top management support in complex information systems projects

PurposeTop management support (TMS) is considered as a critical factor for the success of information systems (ISs) projects. The literature shows that TMS has a positive impact on achieving success in ISs’ projects in different aspects. However, the enabling factors for TMS in complex ISs’ projects have barely been tested, something which this study aims to rectify.Design/methodology/approachThis study has designed a research model based on structural equation modelling (SEM) with the intention of analysing the perception of IS end users regarding the effect on TMS of the following factors: technological complexity and training and organizational communication. The application of the study has focused on an enterprise resource planning–open source software (ERP-OSS) environment.FindingsThe findings show how end users have a perception that organizational communication and training have a positive relation with TMS. Based on these findings, the authors have suggested several practical considerations.Research limitations/implicationsThere are two limitations to this study. First, this study is based on the perception of complex IS/IT users. It would be interesting to add the perception of top managers to provide more solid findings. The second limitation is that this study has not suggested any additional potential factors which could affect TMS.Practical implicationsFirst, this article provides a study of the key role of TMS when an organization needs to implement a complex IS/IT. Second, organizations must develop mechanisms for increasing training and communication relating to the new complex IS/IT projects. Finally, the complexity of an IS/IT project does not constitute an enabling factor incentivizing TMS and should therefore not be a determining factor in increasing TMS within an organization selecting an IS/IT.Originality/valueThis study contributes to advancing theory in the field of TMS in information systems projects.

The software engineering of a three‐tier web‐based student information system (MyGJU)

ABSTRACTThis paper discusses how the software development team at the German Jordanian University (GJU) adopted the project management and software development processes in the ISO/IEC 29110 series to implement a complex Student Information System (SIS). Specifically, it identifies the key points to be taken into consideration in the analysis, design, implementation, testing, and deployment phases during the iterative and incremental SIS development process. The SIS is a distributed three‐tier web‐based application that enables registrars to perform various tasks such as system setup, admission, registration, grades processing, graduation, and reporting. It was launched in the first 2015/2016 semester and enabled administration to maintain a comfortable learning environment, assess instructor performance, enhance teaching practices, and improve course content. The results of the system measurements and user survey assert that the SIS is feature rich, easy to use, fast, reliable, stable, highly available, and scalable. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 25:242–263, 2017; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com/journal/cae; DOI 10.1002/cae.21794

A Conceptual Model for User-System Collaboration: Enhancing Usability of Complex Information Systems

A variety of organizations around the world use complex information systems (e.g., enterprise resource planning and supply chain management systems). However, poor usability caused by system complexity continues to frustrate users and damage the reputation of these systems. In this study, we address usability issues with complex information systems from the human-computer collaboration perspective by modeling user-system interaction as a joint activity between the system and its users. We propose a conceptual model for user-system collaboration, elaborate on the components in the model and the relationships between the components, derive the required capabilities for collaborative information systems, and establish conceptual relationships between system collaborative behaviors and usability. We use empirical evidence gathered from a qualitative field study on ERP systems to illustrate the model and the possible impact of system collaborativeness (i.e., the presence or absence of collaborative capabilities) on usability. We do so to provide a strong conceptual foundation for modeling user-system collaboration and to encourage designers to employ the collaboration metaphor during system design and, thus, help them develop future complex information systems with better usability.

Information Management of Demand-responsive Mobility Service Based on Autonomous Vehicles

The autonomous road vehicle (AV) technology implies significant alteration of urban mobility services. The identified transit modes based on AVs are the individual cars, the demand-responsive public transportation with small or medium sized pods and the high capacity public transportation on arterial routes. The introduction of the telematics-based, shared, demand responsive mobility service requires new information management methods. Accordingly, the aim of our research was to model the structure and the operation of this rather complex information system considering both the operators and the users. Since the passenger functions are the keys of the advanced information service the conceptual plan of the mobile application with personalized functions has been also elaborated. The research questions were: how the architecture and the functions of the information system are to be modelled, what the novel information management functions of passengers and operators are, what data structure is needed and how it is related to the functions as well as what kind of functions are to be realized in the mobile application. The results are applicable as foundations for innovation and development projects aiming realization of either the back-end or the front-end components and for planning information management processes.

Chrological Big data Curation: A Study on the Enhanced Information Retrieval System

In the modern days of big data, the curation of data has become more and more important, especially for handling high volume and complex data systems. With data volumes growing exponentially, along with the increasing variety and heterogeneity of data sources, acquiring the data you may need for analysis has become a costly and time-consuming process. Multiple data sets from various sources must be first processed and connected before they can be used by big data analytics tools. Publication and presentation of data analytics are also very important. However, traditional data curation systems are not designed for this purpose and there is no consideration on the chronological values. Another limitation is that they are usually designed for programmers, not for the ordinary users. In this paper, we propose Chronological Big data Curation system. In the proposed system, acquisition and care of data are processed on the basis of relations between specific topics and chronological order to ensure that data maintains its value over time. The system is implemented and experimental results show the goodness of the proposed system.

OLAP technology and Machine learning as the tools for validation of the Numerical Models of Convective Clouds

In the present work we use the technologies of machine learning and OLAP for more accurate forecasting of such phenomena as a thunderstorm, hail, heavy rain, using the numerical model of convective cloud. Three methods of machine learning: support vector machine, logistic regression and ridge regression are used for making the decision on whether or not a dangerous convective phenomenon occurs at present atmospheric conditions. The OLAP technology is used for development of the concept of multidimensional data base intended for distinguishing the types of the phenomena (thunderstorm, heavy rainfall and light rain). Previously developed complex information system is used for collecting the data about the state of the atmosphere and about the place and at the time when dangerous convective phenomena are recorded.

Security engineering methods - in-depth analysis

Providing security to complex information system development is challenging because of complex network and ubiquitous system. Traditional mechanisms address security concerns during development or design phases that may lead to various loopholes or over-constrained system. The field of security engineering has emerged whereby security requirements are gathered along with other requirements during the initial phase of software development. However, dealing with security concerns during the initial phases of development is challenging because of design and code unavailability. The paper first represents the proposals for security requirements engineering based on different approaches such as use case approach, goal-oriented approach, and process-oriented approach. These methodologies are evaluated along various parameters such as security engineering activities covered, application domain and others. The in-depth analysis ends with a recent proposal for security engineering and list of unresolved issues that needs consideration. The outcome of the paper can be exploited to drive further research.

IMPLEMENTATION OF THE FINANCIAL PLANNING SYSTEM USING THE INTRA-UNIVERSITY INFORMATION SUPPORT SYSTEM OF THE FINANCIAL PLANNING PROCESS

The case-type article describes the experience of implementing financial planning in Volgograd State University. It describes an approach to solving the practical problem of improving university internal efficacy. The gist of the used budgeting-based approach to university financial management is described alongside with its technologies. The article suggests a new methodological basis for designing the process of planning and budgeting the university’s financial and economic activities as well as a method of creating infrastructure for gathering primary indicators, calculating the indicators of business finance-related matters, as well as for the automatization of planning and budgeting process. The authors identified the place of financial planning in the process of formulating and implementing university development strategy. There was chosen a model for planning and budgeting, local documents were worked out to regulate the planning and budgeting process, architecture of complex information system was designed to support planning and budgeting processes. The article enumerates financial responsibility centers, types of plans, income and costs included into the plans. Budgets of the financial responsibility centers were formed. As a result of the research, the authors proved the efficacy of a mixed planning and budgeting model for a regional autonomous university, as well as the feasibility of using its own information support system for the financial planning process.

A Web-Based DSS for the Selection, Implementation and Evaluation of ERP Systems

The Enterprise Resource Planning System is a huge and complex information system that enables the whole organization to operate, collaborate and coordinate its activities through the use of a single data repository. It is expensive to procure and takes a long time to implement. As such, organizations are extremely cautious before making the decision on ERP implementation. Once ERP is implemented, organizations need to continuously monitor its performance and its alignment with the organizations strategic objectives. In this paper we describe our work on the development of a web-based Decision Support System (DSS) that can help organizations to evaluate the success of their ERP implementation and measure the benefits obtained. The challenge of developing the tool lies in determining the criteria for an ERP implementation to be successful, identifying measurements of ERP benefits and ascertaining productivity indicators. To acquire all these yardsticks and measures we had to conduct a survey, case studies and interviews. Finally, all the findings were incorporated in the web-based DSS tool and we called this web based system, SEEBAS.

Modeling of complex information system based on hierarchical decision-making theory

Based on hierarchical concept in system science, by choosing the theory brought up by Simon that three phases of intelligence, design and choice are experienced in a decision-making process dominated by the decision-maker as the management thought, and utilizing the multilevel terrain construction, a framework model of complex information management decision is established in this article, together with models of corresponding decision-making procedure and solution generation. It is proved that hierarchical concept in system science combined with multilevel terrain construction is applicable for the modeling work of decision-making with complex information, providing support and assistance for the modeling of such circumstances.