Partnerships with the Business Units
Partnerships with the Business Units
Examples of IT assets include a firm’s Web site, data files, or computer equip- ment. An IT capability is something that is learned or developed over time for the firm to create, produce, or offer its products. An IT capability makes it possible for a firm to use its IT assets effectively.5 The ability and knowledge to create a Web site, work with data files, and take advantage of IT equipment are examples of capabilities.
They include an understanding of business processes, the ability to oversee the development and maintenance of systems to support these processes effectively, and the ability to plan and work with the business units in undertaking change. Relationship skills can be focused either externally or internally. An externally focused relationship skill includes the ability to respond to the firm’s market and to work with customers and suppliers. The internal relationship between a firm’s IS managers and its business managers is a spanning relationship skill and includes the ability of IS to manage partnerships with the business units. Even though it focuses on relationships in the firm, it requires spanning beyond the IS department. Rela- tionship skills develop over time and require mutual respect and trust. They, like the other information resources, can create a unique advantage for a firm. Figure 2.2 summarizes the different types of information resources and provides examples of each.
5 G. Piccoli and B. Ives, “IT‐Dependent Strategic Initiatives and Sustained Competitive Advantage: A Review and Synthesis of the Literature,” MIS Quarterly 29, no. 4 (2003), 747–76.
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37How Can Information Resources Be Used Strategically?
Information resources exist in a company alongside other resources. The general manager is responsible for organizing all resources so that business goals are met. Understanding the nature of the resources at hand is a pre- requisite to using them effectively. By aligning IS strategy with business strategy,
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