JGITM - Q1, 1998 Contents (Volume 1, No.1)
EDITORIAL PREFACE
IT Strategy: The Challenge of Over-regulation, Culture, and Large-scale Collaborations by Barry Shore. Professor Shore, an Associate Editor for the journal, discusses some looming issues that will impact the global IT strategies of multinational organizations.
ARTICLES
Information Technology, Culture, and Learning at Federal Express. Authors: Brian D. Janz and James C. Wetherbe, The University of Memphis, USA
Abstract: Federal Express Corporation has grown from a startup in the overnight package delivery business to a $9 billion global leader in the industry. How has FedEx achieved such success? The following case study finds that while leadership in information technology innovation has been central to FedEx's success, attention to the diversity of both organizational and global cultures as well as organizational learning have helped to provide a foundation for long-term viability in the global marketplace.
Information Sytems Management issues in Hong Kong: A Contingency Analysis and Comparison with the United Kingdom Authors: Janice M. Burn, Edith Cowan University, Perth, and Colonel Szeto, Far East Data Limited, Hong Kong
Abstract: This paper reports information systems (IS) issues perceived as important by Hong Kong (HK) business and IS managers and identify whether these differ greatly from findings in the United Kingdom (UK). The results suggest that there are variations on perceived issues of importance which can be attributed to cultural contexts but these are less significant than the differences found between managers in different industries. Further, firms which are highly dependent upon Information Technology (IT) have very different concerns and approaches from the "run-of-the-mill" organisations either in HK or UK. The conclusion, therefore, is to suggest that rather than address problem issues identified "collectively", companies must seek to study problems based on their specific industry environment.
Making the World Your Oyster: Experiences from Teaching Information Systems Management for Global Operations Authors: Omar A. El Sawy and K. Ravi Kumar, University of Southern California, USA
Abstract: This article presents a model of education in which university faculty (U), students (S), and companies (C) learn together in a real-time, collaborative and balanced way - and in a global and international context. We show how this USC global balanced learning model emerged through the MBA course on information systems management for global operations management over the last six years. We share our experiences and draw some lessons for management education in general, and information systems management education in particular.
THE EXPERT'S OPINION
An interview is conducted with Mr. P.S. Sridharan, Managing Director, Megatech Control Ltd., Chennai, India. Interview conducted by Chetan S. Sankar and Akila Sankar. Professor Sankar is Industry Editor for JGITM. Megatech, started in 1986, is the first system house of Siemens in India for providing custom built automation solutions to Indian industry. The interview discusses several issues including infrastructure, automation and labor requirements.
THE BOOK REVIEW
Written by Edward M. Roche.
He reviews The President's Commission on Critical Infrastructure Protection by Robert T. March, Chairman, October 1997, Washington, D.C. Available at the Commission's web site at: http://www.pccip.gov. This work informs the reader that there is an entire range of threats emerging in the new networked world including cyber-terrorism, information warfare, and the role of organized crime.
JGITM - Q2, 1998 Contents (Volume 1, No. 2)
EDITORIAL PREFACE
Three Missing Pieces in Global Information Technology by Rick Gibson. Professor Gibson, an Associate Editor for the journal, discusses the very definition of global information technology, the complexity and sophistication of global information systems, and the need for a conceptual framework in global IT.
ARTICLES
Global Information Technology Research: Past, Present and Future. Author: Prashant Palvia, The University of Memphis, USA.
Abstract: Research into Global Information Technology is only a few years old. However, even in this short span, the definition of global IT has evolved. This article first provides a three-part definition of global IT, and then goes on to examine the state of global IT research to date. Most research until now has been descriptive and exploratory. A case is made for conducting more rigorous and meaningful research in the future. Dubbed as "second generation research in global IT", the various elements of such research are described. The intent is to provide a good foundation for research in global IT.
Mexican Executives Use of Information Systems: An Empirical Investigation of EIS Use and Impact (Author: Dorothy E. Leidner, INSEAD, France)
Abstract: Executive Information Systems are being used in organizations around the world to assist with the increased managerial information needs related to the opening of markets and the globalization of enterprise. This study adapts a model of IS success to the context of EIS in order to examine the potential success of EIS use by Mexican managers to help them cope with their highly competitive environment. Using survey data gathered from 89 Mexican senior and middle managers supplemented by interview data from a subset of the survey respondents, the study examines some antecedents of EIS use, individual impacts of EIS use, and organizational impacts of EIS use. The study suggests that Mexican managers use EIS to monitor internal and external information which enables them to make decisions faster, to have better understanding of their environment, and to engage in more thorough decision analysis. These individual benefits then lead to certain organizational benefits, including a shared vision of goals and performance, improved communication, improved competitive response, and improved decision making effectiveness.
Group Support Systems: Barriers to Adoption in a Cross-Cultural Setting (Authors: Robert Davison, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, and Ernest Jordan, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia.)
Abstract: This paper develops a model to explain how Group Support Systems (GSS) may be received in different cultural settings - national and organisational. The model is supported by the views of Information Systems professionals regarding the suitability of SS in those different cultural settings. A detailed investigation into the suitability of adopting GSS in organisations in Hong Kong is undertaken with three cases presented here. We argue for greater sensitivity when attempts are made to transfer technology from one culture to another, as well as the need to develop indigenous solutions that do fit with cultural norms. We also believe that studies documenting the organisational use of GSS - successful and unsuccessful - are essential.
THE EXPERT'S OPINION
An interview is conducted with Mr. Giulio Tonin, I.S. Manager at DIESEL in Italy. Interview conducted by Paola Bielli. Professor Bielli is on the editorial board of JGITM and a professor of MIS at Bocconi University in Milan, Italy. DIESELK is an Italian company in the field of jeans and casual clothing and has customers all over the world. Mr. Tonin describes the IS environment at Diesel which uses advanced technologies such as CAD and databases. While a global company, DIESEL uses common solutions for subsidiaries and uses a centralized IS planning philosophy.
THE BOOK REVIEW
Written by Edward M. Roche. He reviews Cyberwars: espionage on the Internet. The author is Jean Guisnel. Translated from the French by Gui Masai New York and London: Plenum Trade, 1997 ISBN 0-306-45636-2. This book's author provides extensive coverage of security issues faced by enterprises. The book is a grand tour of the many different issues emerging as compnies and individuals work to make the Internet a safe place to do business.
JGITM - Q3, 1998 Contents (Volume 1, No. 3)
EDITORIAL PREFACE
Guest Editor Steven J. Simon of Florida International University examines the role of Information Technology in Asia. Since the early 1990s, the rate of growth in Asia (particularly Southeast Asia) has averaged almost 9% per year. The Asian miracle has not been without its various explanations, problems, and even detractors. Asia will become a growing factor of importance in the 21st century. The region is already a chief supplier of inexpensive components of electrical products. Countries such as Singapore, Korea, and Malaysia are taking steps to insure their position as members of the emerging global information technology infrastructure. Despite the current problems, this region will continue to grow in importance as both a supplier and consumer of technology.
ARTICLES
ASIA'S PENDING LABOR CRUNCH: AN ANALYSIS OF HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT BEST PRACTICES IN IS DEPARTMENTS. (Authors: Steven J. Simon, Florida International University, Miami and Karen L. Middleton, Oklahoma City University, Oklahoma City)
Abstract: This study examines the relationship between host-country stage of socioeconomic development and the migration of human resource management best practices in IS departments in Asia. Employing a sample of 181 Asian firms, significant differences were found to exist in the management of cross-border relationships and in the transfer of HRM best practices to IS departments located in industrialized, newly industrialized and transforming economies.
STUDY OF JOB CHARACTERISTICS AND ORGANIZATIONAL PROGRESSIVENESS POSTURE IN SINGAPORE AND CHINESE COMPANIES Authors: Chetan S. Sankar, Auburn University, Alabama and Li Liu, Total System Services, Inc., Columbus
Abstract: This paper reports the results of a study performed with employees of technical companies in China and Singapore to identify the factors that impact their perceptions of job satisfaction and empowerment. A questionnaire was used to obtain responses from 187 employees from technical companies in Singapore and China. The analysis of the responses using Structural Equation Model showed that the employees from both countries perceived that intrinsic job characteristics influenced empowerment positively. Also, the employees perceived a positive relationship between organizational progressiveness and the technical career path. Based on the results, the paper recommends practices that could be followed to enhance empowerment and job characteristics of employees.
A CROSS-CULTURAL STUDY OF COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY ACCEPTANCE: COMPARISON OF CELLULAR PHONE ADOPTION IN SOUTH KOREA AND THE UNITED STATES Authors: Hyosun Stella Kwon, Samsung Electronics Company, Seoul, South Korea, and Laku Chidambaram, Indiana University, USA
Abstract: This paper examines why and how cellular telephones are adopted and used by people in two different cultures. 176 cellular telephone users from the United States and 117 users from South Korea were surveyed about their perceptions regarding cellular telephones and their motivations to use them. The results suggest that despite some similarities in the adoption of cellular phone technology between the U.S and South Korea, significant differences exist. Results of this study caution against developing stereotypical images of Western and Asian cultures. For instance, contrary to conventional wisdom, South Korean users were motivated to use cellular phones more from their perception that such technologies are useful and less as a consequence of social pressure. On the other hand, and just as unexpectedly, American users were motivated to use cellular phones more from social pressure and less from their individualistic needs
EXPERT OPINION
AN INTERVIEW WITH DR. MAHATHIR BIN MOHAMAD, PRIME MINISTER OF MALAYSIA. The Prime Minister (who has been the subject of several Wall Street Journal articles) talks about the Multimedia Super Corridor or the "Cyberjaya" project. Cyberjaya is envisaged to be the model multimedia haven for leading, innovative multimedia companies from all over the world. Especially created as the first MSC designated cybercity, it enables world-class companies to take full advantage of the unique package Malaysia offers to create an environment that is fully conducive towards exacerbating the growth of information technology and multimedia industries. It offers a high-capacity global telecommunications and logistics infrastructure, backed by a 'soft' Infrastructure, which includes attractive financial incentives and competitive telecom tariffs, as well as a set of new cyberlaws that will form a legal framework to facilitate the growth of electronic commerce.
JGITM - Q4, 1998 Contents (Volume 1, No. 4)
EDITORIAL PREFACE
Editor-in-Chief Prashant Palvia discusses the new SCB Global IT Center at the University of Memphis. He describes three primary goals of the Center:
1) to provide information and resources to companies in the planning, application, and management of global information technology,
2) to conduct and distribute timely and relevant research in global information technology that has practical applications and supports the needs of the business community, and
3) to be a primary resource for global information technology education.
ARTICLES
ISO 9000 CERTIFICATION IN THE UK: A STUDY OF THE ROLE PLAYED BY THE INFORMATION SYSTEMS ORGANIZATION Authors: Elizabeth R. Towell, Kathleen L. McFadden, and Joachim Lauer, Northern Illinois University, Illinois.
Abstract: This study focuses on the role that IS personnel play in the ISO 9000 certification process in the United Kingdom (UK). The authors also compare IS involvement in the UK against that found in United States. ISO 9000 certification, once a European initiative, has evolved into a global quality objective. This study reveals that a great majority of ISO 9000 certification activities are completed without significant IS involvement. Quality managers in the UK identify multiple areas where greater IS involvement is desired. The findings also provide some evidence that involvement of IS personnel may benefit the organization through enhanced communication and greater quality. The implications to ISO 9000 quality managers might well be to consider an expanded role of IS personnel in future certification activities.
EXPECTATIONS AND IMPACTS OF A GLOBAL INFORMATION SYSTEM: THE CASE OF A GLOBAL BANK FROM HONG KONG Authors: Ken Peffers, Rutgers University, New Jersey, and Virpi Kristiina Tuunainen, Helsinki School of Economics, Finland.
Abstract: IS research suggests that the use of innovative information technology (IT), deployed globally with the right mix of organizational assets, may help firm performance by increasing scale and scope economies, customer value, operational efficiency and organizational effectiveness, and by providing opportunities for competitive advantage. This interpretive case study investigates the business value created by a combination of firm and IT strategy, global assets, and the use of an innovative IS to deliver products in the international trade finance and cash management business. Hexagon, a proprietary on-line banking application that supports the international management of financial assets, was developed by HSBC Holdings, plc. Quantitative and qualitative analysis reveal Hexagon's impacts on HSBC in terms of performance impacts anticipated in the IS literature and in terms of firm level business objectives.
A Framework for IT Industry Development: A Case Study of Pakistan Author: Syed Zahoor Hassan, Lahore University, Pakistan
Abstract: An integrated framework for understanding IT industry in a developing country is presented and then applied to understand the software industry in Pakistan. Business strategies and management practices of a representative sample of Pakistan's software companies have been studied. It was found that currently a majority of software firms is trying to adopt better marketing strategies and improve their quality assurance systems and project management capabilities as a requirement for focussing on export markets. The key issues faced by software firms are lack of skilled manpower, inefficient infrastructure, unavailability of financing and non-protection of intellectual rights. Measures taken by the Government, software industry association and recent developments that have led to more than 30% growth rate of the IT industry in Pakistan, are also presented. The proposed framework is utilised to formulate some recommendations for further development of the IT industry.
THE EXPERT'S OPINION
AN INTERVIEW WITH MR. M.V. THOMAS, DIRECTOR, SOFTWARE AND SIGNALING ENGINEERING CORPORATE DIVISION, POWERTEL, INC., WEST POINT, GA, Interview conducted by Chetan S. Sankar and Anthony P. Santella, Auburn University. Powertel, Inc. provides wireless personal communications services ("PCS") in the southeastern United States and provides cellular telephone service in contiguous portions of western Georgia and eastern Alabama. This interview discusses Powertel's strategies for entering into the U.S. markets, their state-of-the-art technologies, the introduction of European technologies into the U.S., and the role of government in promoting IT initiatives.
THE BOOK REVIEW Written by Edward M. Roche.
He reviews Leveraging the New Infrastructure: How Market Leaders Capitalize on Information Technology by Peter Weill and Marianne Broadbent, Boston: Harvard Business School Press, 1998.
This is an ambitious book, presenting a combination of empirical research and consulting-oriented frameworks. Broadbent and Weill have made an extensive IBM Consulting Group-funded study of 27 companies, located in North American, Europe and the Asia Pacific Region. They present survey information on IT budgets as well as on a variety of attitudinal and assessment factors.
