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Transformation of the Information Technology Function in Organizations: A Case Study in the Manufacturing Sector
Author(s) -
Guillemette Ma G.,
Paré Guy
Publication year - 2012
Publication title -
canadian journal of administrative sciences / revue canadienne des sciences de l'administration
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.347
H-Index - 48
eISSN - 1936-4490
pISSN - 0825-0383
DOI - 10.1002/cjas.224
Subject(s) - typology , function (biology) , value (mathematics) , knowledge management , transformation (genetics) , manufacturing sector , business , conceptual framework , management , punctuated equilibrium , process management , industrial organization , computer science , economics , sociology , epistemology , philosophy , international economics , evolutionary biology , anthropology , biology , paleontology , biochemistry , chemistry , machine learning , gene
The main goal of this study is to better understand the nature of transformations of the Information Technology (IT) function in organizations. A conceptual framework combining a typology of the IT function and key elements of the theory of punctuated equilibrium was developed and applied in a case study of a manufacturing company. Our results suggest that IT functions are transformed in response to various pressures that push it toward change. However, these pressures need to be channelled through a catalyst consisting of three independent elements: (a) the vision of the enterprise concerning the potential value of IT tools, (b) the degree of Chief Information Officer's participation in strategic decision making, and (c) the level of IT knowledge among members of the executive team. Finally, our results challenge the notion that all IT functions tend towards the same optimal profile over time. Copyright © 2011 ASAC. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.