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  • [Solved] business project

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    [>Marketing homework help](https://www.sweetstudy.com/fields/business-finance-marketing) **files (1)** – ## Businessproject.docx **## Businessproject.docx** **Instructions (11 slides with introduction and reference)** Instructions (Although this assignment calls for group participation, I am doing i…

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    [>Marketing homework help](https://www.sweetstudy.com/fields/business-finance-marketing)

    **files (1)**

    – ## Businessproject.docx

    **## Businessproject.docx**

    **Instructions (11 slides with introduction and reference)**

    Instructions (Although this assignment calls for group participation, I am doing it alone and need the presentation to be as one person is doing the assignment. Teacher gave me permission to do this as a single project, but make sure all of the tasks below are met).

    BUS 137 – Group Final Project Details: Chapter 11: Team Task: Leadership

    

    **Introduction**

    Organizations absolutely must have strong leadership to perform well and remain competitive. There are many styles and approaches to leadership, but all leaders share the ability to devise a vision for the organization, to share that vision with others through excellent communication skills, to think strategically, and to make tough decisions along the way. The best leaders share their successes and acknowledge the contributions of their teams.

    

    **Purpose**

    In this group project, will research and analyze the succession of leadership in an organization of your choice. By studying the organization's leaders – past and present – you will be able to evaluate the impact these leaders have had over the years. This will allow you to develop your own insights on the importance of leadership and leadership styles in the context of real-world situations.

    

    **Activity Steps**

     Step 1: Prior to the first team meeting, it would be useful for each team member to do some preliminary research online to start identifying long-standing organizations and leaders that meet the criteria for this project. Your team can choose any private sector, public sector, or non-profit business organization to research and analyze for this group project. However, you will want to choose an organization that has a fairly long history involving at least three well-known historic and/or contemporary business leaders. You are going to be conducting a good deal of research on these leaders, so you'll need to choose an organization that has been studied and documented in the media and business journals. An ideal choice is an organization that has had at least one contemporary leader who has been filmed and recorded so that you have access to online audio and video files depicting that leader. Note that each leader you study does not have to be a CEO or President of the organization; it could also be a Chairman of the Board, Chief Financial Officer, or other senior executive. Do not choose three leaders from three separate organizations.

    
    • Step 2: To begin, your team will hold a group meeting in person or via online video chat. Group members should suggest various organizations to consider for use in this project, including the organization's leaders who can be studied. The objective of this first meeting is to settle on an organization and the three specific leaders to research. Your group should also establish a plan for conducting research that involves all group members.

    • Step 3: At your second group meeting, your team will discuss the research uncovered on each of the three leaders. Evaluate each leader's style and analyze each one based on the leadership traits and theories discussed in your text. What can you learn from decisions they made, and how they handled the consequences? How did the leaders try to motivate employees and how did the employees respond to each leader's efforts? Continue working until all group members feel they have a thorough understanding of each leader. Finally, as a group, discuss how leadership evolved in your company. What does this tell you about leadership and leadership styles? Your group will also need to develop a plan for creating your final deliverable.

    
    • Step 4: Remember that your final deliverable for this project can be either a Microsoft PowerPoint presentation or a video presentation. Your presentation must address the following:

    
    1. Slides should include at least 100 words that briefly describes the organization you chose.

    
    2. Information for each of the three leaders from the organization, describing his or her leadership behaviors skills and styles. Slides should include at least 100 words in length, and should include at least one embedded media item, such as a video recording, audio recording, or photograph. A couple of slides dedicated to describing what the team learned about a leader's impact on an organization. In addition, your team should reflect on how this exercise has informed your understanding of leadership styles.

    
    3. Remember to include a slide with the correct source citations for any references used in your PowerPoint.

    
    *If you are creating a video presentation, your video will have the same five components listed above: a description of your organization, a description of each of the three organizational leaders, with at least one embedded media item, a segment on what you learned about leaders and leadership. Also include a set of citations in the video.

    
    • Step 5: Use the collaborative workspace (Final Project link in Canvas) to submit the attachment of your final deliverable to your instructor/classmates.

    **## Businessproject.docx**

    **Instructions (11 slides with introduction and reference)**

    Instructions (Although this assignment calls for group participation, I am doing it alone and need the presentation to be as one person is doing the assignment. Teacher gave me permission to do this as a single project, but make sure all of the tasks below are met).

    BUS 137 – Group Final Project Details: Chapter 11: Team Task: Leadership

    

    **Introduction**

    Organizations absolutely must have strong leadership to perform well and remain competitive. There are many styles and approaches to leadership, but all leaders share the ability to devise a vision for the organization, to share that vision with others through excellent communication skills, to think strategically, and to make tough decisions along the way. The best leaders share their successes and acknowledge the contributions of their teams.

    

    **Purpose**

    In this group project, will research and analyze the succession of leadership in an organization of your choice. By studying the organization's leaders – past and present – you will be able to evaluate the impact these leaders have had over the years. This will allow you to develop your own insights on the importance of leadership and leadership styles in the context of real-world situations.

    

    **Activity Steps**

     Step 1: Prior to the first team meeting, it would be useful for each team member to do some preliminary research online to start identifying long-standing organizations and leaders that meet the criteria for this project. Your team can choose any private sector, public sector, or non-profit business organization to research and analyze for this group project. However, you will want to choose an organization that has a fairly long history involving at least three well-known historic and/or contemporary business leaders. You are going to be conducting a good deal of research on these leaders, so you'll need to choose an organization that has been studied and documented in the media and business journals. An ideal choice is an organization that has had at least one contemporary leader who has been filmed and recorded so that you have access to online audio and video files depicting that leader. Note that each leader you study does not have to be a CEO or President of the organization; it could also be a Chairman of the Board, Chief Financial Officer, or other senior executive. Do not choose three leaders from three separate organizations.

    
    • Step 2: To begin, your team will hold a group meeting in person or via online video chat. Group members should suggest various organizations to consider for use in this project, including the organization's leaders who can be studied. The objective of this first meeting is to settle on an organization and the three specific leaders to research. Your group should also establish a plan for conducting research that involves all group members.

    • Step 3: At your second group meeting, your team will discuss the research uncovered on each of the three leaders. Evaluate each leader's style and analyze each one based on the leadership traits and theories discussed in your text. What can you learn from decisions they made, and how they handled the consequences? How did the leaders try to motivate employees and how did the employees respond to each leader's efforts? Continue working until all group members feel they have a thorough understanding of each leader. Finally, as a group, discuss how leadership evolved in your company. What does this tell you about leadership and leadership styles? Your group will also need to develop a plan for creating your final deliverable.

    
    • Step 4: Remember that your final deliverable for this project can be either a Microsoft PowerPoint presentation or a video presentation. Your presentation must address the following:

    
    1. Slides should include at least 100 words that briefly describes the organization you chose.

    
    2. Information for each of the three leaders from the organization, describing his or her leadership behaviors skills and styles. Slides should include at least 100 words in length, and should include at least one embedded media item, such as a video recording, audio recording, or photograph. A couple of slides dedicated to describing what the team learned about a leader's impact on an organization. In addition, your team should reflect on how this exercise has informed your understanding of leadership styles.

    
    3. Remember to include a slide with the correct source citations for any references used in your PowerPoint.

    
    *If you are creating a video presentation, your video will have the same five components listed above: a description of your organization, a description of each of the three organizational leaders, with at least one embedded media item, a segment on what you learned about leaders and leadership. Also include a set of citations in the video.

    
    • Step 5: Use the collaborative workspace (Final Project link in Canvas) to submit the attachment of your final deliverable to your instructor/classmates.

  • [Solved] Discussion Board 12

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    [>Operations Management homework help](https://www.sweetstudy.com/fields/business-finance-operations-management) – [\ \ Screenshot2026-07-18at10.11.28AM.png](https://www.sweetstudy.com/files/screenshot2026-07-18at10-11-28am-png "Screenshot2026-07-18at10.11.28AM.png")

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    [>Operations Management homework help](https://www.sweetstudy.com/fields/business-finance-operations-management)

    – [\
    \
    Screenshot2026-07-18at10.11.28AM.png](https://www.sweetstudy.com/files/screenshot2026-07-18at10-11-28am-png "Screenshot2026-07-18at10.11.28AM.png")

  • [Solved] Week Four Discussion Xtra Credit

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    [>Accounting homework help](https://www.sweetstudy.com/fields/business-finance-accounting) **files (1)** – ## WeekFourDiscussionXTRAcreditInstructionsHM.docx **## WeekFourDiscussionXTRAcreditInstructionsHM.docx** **Week Four Discussion. Extra Credit** **EXTRA CREDIT – Check out the Council of Supply…

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    [>Accounting homework help](https://www.sweetstudy.com/fields/business-finance-accounting)

    **files (1)**

    – ## WeekFourDiscussionXTRAcreditInstructionsHM.docx

    **## WeekFourDiscussionXTRAcreditInstructionsHM.docx**

    **Week Four Discussion. Extra Credit**

    **EXTRA CREDIT – Check out the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals' web site (www.cscmp.org). Review the items under one of these tabs:  E-Learning, Research or Career and write a brief summary of the**
    **_one area that interested you the most._**

    **## WeekFourDiscussionXTRAcreditInstructionsHM.docx**

    **Week Four Discussion. Extra Credit**

    **EXTRA CREDIT – Check out the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals' web site (www.cscmp.org). Review the items under one of these tabs:  E-Learning, Research or Career and write a brief summary of the**
    **_one area that interested you the most._**

  • [Solved] Week Four Discussion 1 Replies

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    [>Operations Management homework help](https://www.sweetstudy.com/fields/business-finance-operations-management) **files (1)** – ## WeekFourDiscussion1RepliesHM.docx **## WeekFourDiscussion1RepliesHM.docx** Reply to the **TWO students'** discussion posts with a minimum of 75 words each **Leticia Mes…

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    [>Operations Management homework help](https://www.sweetstudy.com/fields/business-finance-operations-management)

    **files (1)**

    – ## WeekFourDiscussion1RepliesHM.docx

    **## WeekFourDiscussion1RepliesHM.docx**

    Reply to the
    **TWO students'** discussion posts with a minimum of 75 words each

    **Leticia Messerly**

    Hello class and professor!

    More value can be created through cross-functional relationships because different departments work together instead of focusing only on their own responsibilities. For example, purchasing, logistics, operations, finance, and customer service may all have different goals, but their decisions affect the entire supply chain. When these teams communicate and share information, they can solve problems faster, reduce delays, control costs, and provide better service to customers.

    Traditional buyer and seller relationships are often more transactional. The buyer may focus mainly on getting the lowest price, while the seller may focus on making the sale. This approach can create conflict and may not support long-term improvement. Cross-functional relationships are more collaborative because everyone works toward shared business goals. They also make it easier to plan inventory, manage demand, improve product quality, and respond to unexpected problems.

    According to Lambert (2023), supply chain management creates the most value when processes are integrated across departments and organizations. Overall, cross-functional relationships help companies make better decisions because they include different skills, ideas, and perspectives. This teamwork creates stronger relationships, improves efficiency, and gives customers a better overall experience.

    Reference

    Lambert, D. M. (2023).
    _Supply chain management: Processes, partnerships, performance_. National University course materials.

    **Kristine Nicolas**

    Cross-functional relationships create more value than traditional buyer-seller relationships because they encourage organizations to work together toward shared goals instead of focusing only on buying and selling products. In a traditional buyer-seller relationship, communication is often limited to price, delivery, and transactions. In contrast, cross-functional relationships bring together teams from purchasing, operations, logistics, marketing, finance, and product development to solve problems, share information, and improve the entire supply chain (Lambert, 2014). This collaboration leads to better decision-making, lower costs, faster response times, improved innovation, and higher customer satisfaction.

    A successful supply chain management depends on integrating business processes within a company and across supply chain partners (Lambert, 2014). By sharing knowledge, resources, and risks, organizations can create value that neither company could achieve independently. For example, a supplier involved early in product development can recommend design improvements that reduce production costs and improve product quality. Research also shows that supply chain integration improves both operational and financial performance because organizations coordinate decisions rather than optimizing only their own functions (Flynn et al., 2010). Overall, cross-functional relationships strengthen partnerships by building trust, improving communication, and creating long-term value for both organizations and customers. Rather than viewing suppliers as simple vendors, companies that collaborate across functions develop strategic partnerships that provide a sustainable competitive advantage.

    References:

    Flynn, B. B., Huo, B., & Zhao, X. (2010). The impact of supply chain integration on performance: A contingency and configuration approach.
    _Journal of Operations Management, 28_(1), 58–71. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jom.2009.06.001

    Lambert, D. M. (2014).
    _Supply chain management: Processes, partnerships, performance_ (4th ed.). Supply Chain Management Institute, LLC. https://online.vitalsource.com/books/978-0-578-92716-9

    **## WeekFourDiscussion1RepliesHM.docx**

    Reply to the
    **TWO students'** discussion posts with a minimum of 75 words each

    **Leticia Messerly**

    Hello class and professor!

    More value can be created through cross-functional relationships because different departments work together instead of focusing only on their own responsibilities. For example, purchasing, logistics, operations, finance, and customer service may all have different goals, but their decisions affect the entire supply chain. When these teams communicate and share information, they can solve problems faster, reduce delays, control costs, and provide better service to customers.

    Traditional buyer and seller relationships are often more transactional. The buyer may focus mainly on getting the lowest price, while the seller may focus on making the sale. This approach can create conflict and may not support long-term improvement. Cross-functional relationships are more collaborative because everyone works toward shared business goals. They also make it easier to plan inventory, manage demand, improve product quality, and respond to unexpected problems.

    According to Lambert (2023), supply chain management creates the most value when processes are integrated across departments and organizations. Overall, cross-functional relationships help companies make better decisions because they include different skills, ideas, and perspectives. This teamwork creates stronger relationships, improves efficiency, and gives customers a better overall experience.

    Reference

    Lambert, D. M. (2023).
    _Supply chain management: Processes, partnerships, performance_. National University course materials.

    **Kristine Nicolas**

    Cross-functional relationships create more value than traditional buyer-seller relationships because they encourage organizations to work together toward shared goals instead of focusing only on buying and selling products. In a traditional buyer-seller relationship, communication is often limited to price, delivery, and transactions. In contrast, cross-functional relationships bring together teams from purchasing, operations, logistics, marketing, finance, and product development to solve problems, share information, and improve the entire supply chain (Lambert, 2014). This collaboration leads to better decision-making, lower costs, faster response times, improved innovation, and higher customer satisfaction.

    A successful supply chain management depends on integrating business processes within a company and across supply chain partners (Lambert, 2014). By sharing knowledge, resources, and risks, organizations can create value that neither company could achieve independently. For example, a supplier involved early in product development can recommend design improvements that reduce production costs and improve product quality. Research also shows that supply chain integration improves both operational and financial performance because organizations coordinate decisions rather than optimizing only their own functions (Flynn et al., 2010). Overall, cross-functional relationships strengthen partnerships by building trust, improving communication, and creating long-term value for both organizations and customers. Rather than viewing suppliers as simple vendors, companies that collaborate across functions develop strategic partnerships that provide a sustainable competitive advantage.

    References:

    Flynn, B. B., Huo, B., & Zhao, X. (2010). The impact of supply chain integration on performance: A contingency and configuration approach.
    _Journal of Operations Management, 28_(1), 58–71. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jom.2009.06.001

    Lambert, D. M. (2014).
    _Supply chain management: Processes, partnerships, performance_ (4th ed.). Supply Chain Management Institute, LLC. https://online.vitalsource.com/books/978-0-578-92716-9

  • [Solved] qqqqq

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    [>Management homework help](https://www.sweetstudy.com/fields/business-finance-management)

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    [>Management homework help](https://www.sweetstudy.com/fields/business-finance-management)

  • [Solved] QAA3 WK6

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    [>Management homework help](https://www.sweetstudy.com/fields/business-finance-management) **files (1)** – ## QAA3WK6.docx **## QAA3WK6.docx** TEXTBOOK(S) AND REQUIRED MATERIALS: Title: The Global Challenge: International Human Resources Management Author: Pucik, Evans, Bjorkman & Morris Publisher: …

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    [>Management homework help](https://www.sweetstudy.com/fields/business-finance-management)

    **files (1)**

    – ## QAA3WK6.docx

    **## QAA3WK6.docx**

    TEXTBOOK(S) AND REQUIRED MATERIALS:

    Title: The Global Challenge: International Human Resources Management

    Author: Pucik, Evans, Bjorkman & Morris

    Publisher: Chicago Press

    Year Published: 2017

    Edition: 3rd ISBN: 13: 9780983332497

    Assignment 3

    **Q.1 Posting – Chapter 6 – Selection involves identifying the most suitable person from a pool of candidates, whether internal or external. Selection should be closely linked to the management of gender, nationality, ethnicity, religion, and other forms of diversity. Do you agree with this statement? Why or why not?**

    Chapter 7: 1. Performance appraisal of global team members should include team process items such as joint problem-solving, support of other team members, and team conflict resolution. Do you think the performance appraisal should be country-specific or company-specific? Why? Explain your reasoning.

    Chapter 8: 1. Leadership development is a powerful tool for ensuring coordination in the transnational firm. How should transnational companies develop leadership? What are the leadership competencies needed to be successful in a global company? Explain and why?

    Chapter 9: 1. In operational terms, fair process means paying attention to the Five Es: engagement of people, exploration of options, explanation of decisions made, setting expectations, and evaluation of the outcomes of the change process. Choose a country and develop how to meet the Five E’s.

    **Notes**
    Outside Sources and APA:

    Outside sources will be required for several assignments. The articles/sources must be current (2021-present), peer-reviewed, and from various professional journals. Use ProQuest and other electronic databases to locate the articles. The articles should be related to the assigned chapters in the textbook. For clarification, examples of scholarly, peer-reviewed sources include Harvard Business Review and the Academy of Management Journal. Using online databases (e.g., ProQuest) to locate your articles is recommended. The assignment document should include a Cover Page and a Reference Page. Use the APA format for the Cover Page, Reference Page, and in-text citations. Refer to the Citation Styles Tutorial and then locate the APA website. Select the APA website and review the APA Basic Tutorial and the Frequently Asked Questions. Submit all parts of each Assignment as one document.

    **## QAA3WK6.docx**

    TEXTBOOK(S) AND REQUIRED MATERIALS:

    Title: The Global Challenge: International Human Resources Management

    Author: Pucik, Evans, Bjorkman & Morris

    Publisher: Chicago Press

    Year Published: 2017

    Edition: 3rd ISBN: 13: 9780983332497

    Assignment 3

    **Q.1 Posting – Chapter 6 – Selection involves identifying the most suitable person from a pool of candidates, whether internal or external. Selection should be closely linked to the management of gender, nationality, ethnicity, religion, and other forms of diversity. Do you agree with this statement? Why or why not?**

    Chapter 7: 1. Performance appraisal of global team members should include team process items such as joint problem-solving, support of other team members, and team conflict resolution. Do you think the performance appraisal should be country-specific or company-specific? Why? Explain your reasoning.

    Chapter 8: 1. Leadership development is a powerful tool for ensuring coordination in the transnational firm. How should transnational companies develop leadership? What are the leadership competencies needed to be successful in a global company? Explain and why?

    Chapter 9: 1. In operational terms, fair process means paying attention to the Five Es: engagement of people, exploration of options, explanation of decisions made, setting expectations, and evaluation of the outcomes of the change process. Choose a country and develop how to meet the Five E’s.

    **Notes**
    Outside Sources and APA:

    Outside sources will be required for several assignments. The articles/sources must be current (2021-present), peer-reviewed, and from various professional journals. Use ProQuest and other electronic databases to locate the articles. The articles should be related to the assigned chapters in the textbook. For clarification, examples of scholarly, peer-reviewed sources include Harvard Business Review and the Academy of Management Journal. Using online databases (e.g., ProQuest) to locate your articles is recommended. The assignment document should include a Cover Page and a Reference Page. Use the APA format for the Cover Page, Reference Page, and in-text citations. Refer to the Citation Styles Tutorial and then locate the APA website. Select the APA website and review the APA Basic Tutorial and the Frequently Asked Questions. Submit all parts of each Assignment as one document.

  • [Solved] inss 3 questions

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    [>Management homework help](https://www.sweetstudy.com/fields/business-finance-management) **files (1)** – ## inssindividualproject.docx **## inssindividualproject.docx** Must address all questions(each question must address all three companies) and be authentic 1500 words. · The dynamics of IT-busi…

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    [>Management homework help](https://www.sweetstudy.com/fields/business-finance-management)

    **files (1)**

    – ## inssindividualproject.docx

    **## inssindividualproject.docx**

    Must address all questions(each question must address all three companies) and be authentic 1500 words.

    · The dynamics of IT-business strategic alignment – evidence from healthcare information systems implementation (
    [http://proxy-ub.researchport.umd.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/abiglobal/scholarly-journals/dynamics-business-strategic-alignment-evidence/docview/2448035611/sem-2?accountid=28969](http://proxy-ub.researchport.umd.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/abiglobal/scholarly-journals/dynamics-business-strategic-alignment-evidence/docview/2448035611/sem-2?accountid=28969))

    · The case of “Med-Global” – IT-enabled innovation and implementation by non-IT business unit leaders (
    [http://proxy-ub.researchport.umd.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/abiglobal/scholarly-journals/case-med-global-enabled-innovation-implementation/docview/2200644457/sem-2?accountid=28969](http://proxy-ub.researchport.umd.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/abiglobal/scholarly-journals/case-med-global-enabled-innovation-implementation/docview/2200644457/sem-2?accountid=28969))

    · An attempt to understand complexity in a government digital transformation project (
    [http://proxy-ub.researchport.umd.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/abiglobal/scholarly-journals/attempt-understand-complexity-government-digital/docview/2618440869/sem-2?accountid=28969](http://proxy-ub.researchport.umd.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/abiglobal/scholarly-journals/attempt-understand-complexity-government-digital/docview/2618440869/sem-2?accountid=28969))

    QUESTIONS

    1. What internal and/or external factors drove the initiatives at each company? Were these initiatives put in place as responses to challenges or to opportunities?

    2. How were business value, competitive advantage, risk, and organizational change considered in each project? Should they have been handled any differently?

    3. In terms of organizational information integration, does each company appear to be pursuing the correct technological path? Suggest alternatives, additional initiatives, and/or next steps to achieve better integration.

    **## inssindividualproject.docx**

    Must address all questions(each question must address all three companies) and be authentic 1500 words.

    · The dynamics of IT-business strategic alignment – evidence from healthcare information systems implementation (
    [http://proxy-ub.researchport.umd.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/abiglobal/scholarly-journals/dynamics-business-strategic-alignment-evidence/docview/2448035611/sem-2?accountid=28969](http://proxy-ub.researchport.umd.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/abiglobal/scholarly-journals/dynamics-business-strategic-alignment-evidence/docview/2448035611/sem-2?accountid=28969))

    · The case of “Med-Global” – IT-enabled innovation and implementation by non-IT business unit leaders (
    [http://proxy-ub.researchport.umd.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/abiglobal/scholarly-journals/case-med-global-enabled-innovation-implementation/docview/2200644457/sem-2?accountid=28969](http://proxy-ub.researchport.umd.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/abiglobal/scholarly-journals/case-med-global-enabled-innovation-implementation/docview/2200644457/sem-2?accountid=28969))

    · An attempt to understand complexity in a government digital transformation project (
    [http://proxy-ub.researchport.umd.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/abiglobal/scholarly-journals/attempt-understand-complexity-government-digital/docview/2618440869/sem-2?accountid=28969](http://proxy-ub.researchport.umd.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/abiglobal/scholarly-journals/attempt-understand-complexity-government-digital/docview/2618440869/sem-2?accountid=28969))

    QUESTIONS

    1. What internal and/or external factors drove the initiatives at each company? Were these initiatives put in place as responses to challenges or to opportunities?

    2. How were business value, competitive advantage, risk, and organizational change considered in each project? Should they have been handled any differently?

    3. In terms of organizational information integration, does each company appear to be pursuing the correct technological path? Suggest alternatives, additional initiatives, and/or next steps to achieve better integration.

  • [Solved] Digital Community

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    [>Management homework help](https://www.sweetstudy.com/fields/business-finance-management) In this project, you will demonstrate your mastery of the following competencies: – Explain the various traits that are reflected in a supportive digital community – Describe how adaptability can support chang…

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    Assignment Prompt & Instructions

    [>Management homework help](https://www.sweetstudy.com/fields/business-finance-management)

    In this project, you will demonstrate your mastery of the following competencies:

    – Explain the various traits that are reflected in a supportive digital community
    – Describe how adaptability can support change and perseverance
    – Discuss how various perspectives and personal values guide responsible decision making

    ## Overview

    In today’s fast-moving digital world, the ability to build strong communities, adapt to change, and make thoughtful decisions is essential for success—both in school and beyond. In this final project, you will demonstrate the skills you’ve built throughout the course by exploring how you engage in digital communities, respond to feedback, adapt during transitions, and make responsible decisions. These skills are not only critical for academic success but also highly valued in professional environments, where collaboration, flexibility, and ethical decision making set individuals apart. For this project, you will develop a Lifelong Learner Toolkit that is meant to support you on your continuing journey as a student and digital community participant. By completing this work, you are investing in your future ability to thrive in personal, academic, and career opportunities.

    ## Directions

    This project has three parts. You will complete drafts of Part One in Module Three and Part Two in Module Five. You will then complete Part Three of the Lifelong Learner Toolkit and put all three parts together in Module Seven. Writing Part Three will help you to reflect on the skills and strategies that have helped you grow as a learner and member of digital communities. Use your chosen template from the What to Submit section to complete this project.

    **Note:** Be sure to submit all three parts of the final project together to ensure your project is complete. Incorporate the feedback you received from your instructor on your 3-1 Project Draft and 5-2 Project Draft assignments to improve your final submission.

    ### **Part One: Digital Community**

    Specifically, you must address the following rubric criteria:

    1. Discuss how **digital literacy skills** help support meaningful connections in digital communities. Include the following:

    1. What digital literacy skills help support meaningful connections in a digital space?
    2. Why are digital literacy skills important to have when making connections in a digital community?
    2. Describe **communication strategies** that encourage digital connections. Include the following:

    1. How does each strategy encourage digital connections?
    2. Does each strategy work all the time? Why or why not?
    3. Compare the skills used to engage in both a **digital and in-person community.**
    4. Explain why being inclusive of different **cultures and backgrounds** contributes to a respectful digital community.
    5. Reflect on the **skills you bring to a digital community.** Include the following:

    1. What skills would you consider are your strengths?
    2. What skills would you like to develop further?
    3. What makes you feel supported in a digital community?

    ### **Part Two: Growth Mindset**

    1. Explain how growth mindset shapes how you respond to **challenges or barriers.** Include the following:

    1. Explain what growth mindset means.
    2. Discuss why having a growth mindset might be important when responding to a challenge or barrier.
    2. Discuss how receiving and providing **feedback** can help support your growth. Include the following:

    1. What is the value of constructive feedback?
    2. How do you use feedback to reach your goals?
    3. What are strategies that can be used to frame feedback in a growth mindset?
    3. Describe a **reflective strategy** to help manage a large change. Include the following:

    1. Is this strategy meant to support personal, academic, professional, or community transitions?
    2. How does this strategy support a large change?
    4. Describe how **goal setting** can help promote flexibility when situations change.
    5. Describe a time when you needed to **adapt to a new situation** and how you adjusted. Include the following:

    1. What skills or strategies have you learned that you might apply if you were put in that situation again?

    ### **Part Three: Decision Making**

    1. Discuss why checking the **accuracy or bias of information** helps you make better decisions.
    2. Explain how **different perspectives or value systems** can shape how people make decisions.;
    3. Describe a strategy for making **well-informed decisions.** Include the following:

    1. How does this strategy support making a well-informed decision?
    2. How does this strategy help you avoid bias and misinformation when deciding?
    4. Explain why considering different outcomes helps guide **thoughtful decisions.**
    5. Consider how your **personal values** influence how you make decisions. Include the following:

    1. What do you personally value and consider when deciding?
    2. How do you ensure the information you have is accurate and free from bias before deciding?
    3. In the future, what are some adjustments you might make to your decision-making process?

    – [\
    \
    IDS104ProjectTemplatePPT1.pptx](https://www.sweetstudy.com/files/ids104projecttemplateppt1-pptx "IDS104ProjectTemplatePPT1.pptx")
    – [\
    \
    ProjectGuidelinesandRubric1.html.zip](https://www.sweetstudy.com/files/projectguidelinesandrubric1-html-zip-10576919 "ProjectGuidelinesandRubric1.html.zip")
    – [\
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    IDS104ModuleTwoJournal.docx](https://www.sweetstudy.com/files/ids104moduletwojournal-docx "IDS104ModuleTwoJournal.docx")
    – [\
    \
    DigitalCommunity.docx](https://www.sweetstudy.com/files/digitalcommunity-docx-10576953 "DigitalCommunity.docx")

  • [Solved] Business Finance – Management week 4 assignments

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    – ## inssweek8.docx

    – ## InsssummaryChapter14.docx

    – insssummaryChapter13.docx

    **## inssweek8.docx**

    Must be authentic answer each question at 400 words per questions with citations.

    The questions below are based on the following three case studies of systems/services development initiatives. Apply the content of Chapters 13 and 14 (Laudon, Laudon, and Traver. Management Information Systems: Managing the Digital Firm, 18th Edition, Pearson, ©2026. ISBN-13:  9780138344245.), plus your own independent research into the concepts, notions, and theories in these two chapters to address these questions.

    · Building digital ecosystems from within: A case from life insurance (
    [http://proxy-ub.researchport.umd.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/abiglobal/scholarly-journals/building-digital-ecosystems-within-case-life/docview/3283145119/sem-2?accountid=28969](http://proxy-ub.researchport.umd.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/abiglobal/scholarly-journals/building-digital-ecosystems-within-case-life/docview/3283145119/sem-2?accountid=28969))

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    Questions:

    1. Assess the management, organization, and technology factors that contributed to each organization’s pre- IT-initiative condition.

    2. What were the key risk factors of each systems initiative? How well did each organization control, or plan to control, these risks? What would you have done additionally or differently to manage these risks?

    3. How did each IT initiative help align the organization better with its goals? What business value was achieved in each instance?
    (You may apply one or more of the following concepts in your analysis for this question: Porter’s competitive forces model, the value chain model, synergies, core competencies, and network economics.)

    **## InsssummaryChapter14.docx**

    Here is the summary of the content from Chapter 14: Making the Business Case for Information Systems and Managing Projects:

    Opening Case Study

    BigCommerce is a global e-commerce technology company providing a cloud-based SaaS e-commerce platform for B2C, B2B, and omnichannel solutions.

    The platform includes features like online store design, catalog management, hosting, checkout, order management, reporting, and integration with third-party services.

    BigCommerce offers development and professional services, including solutions architecting, data migration, and project management.

    Previously, BigCommerce used spreadsheets, email, and collaboration tools like Google Drive and Google Docs for project management, which were insufficient for scaling and managing larger projects.

    BigCommerce needed a project management tool to handle over 100 global projects, measure metrics, and manage customer interactions.

    After evaluating several tools, BigCommerce chose Wrike for its comprehensive project management capabilities.

    Wrike is an integrated SaaS tool available as a web-based tool and mobile app, supporting multiple languages.

    Wrike helps coordinate projects across teams, provides visibility into project progress, resources, and costs, and improves accountability.

    Wrike integrates easily with existing infrastructure and applications like Slack and Salesforce and supports both agile and waterfall project management approaches.

    Using Wrike, BigCommerce improved project organization, communication with customers, reporting, and analytics, leading to better business decisions and cost predictions.

    Wrike enabled BigCommerce to analyze team efficiency, improve "time to value," and enhance customer satisfaction.

    Successful implementation of Wrike required changes to project management processes and attention to organizational change.

    BigCommerce's management recognized the need for a new project management system to improve resource efficiency, collaboration, and project portfolio management.

    14.1 Explain How to Build a Business Case

    Projects and Information Systems: Projects are planned activities aimed at achieving specific business objectives. Information systems projects can involve developing new systems, enhancing existing ones, or upgrading IT infrastructure.

    Business Case: A business case is a proposal seeking approval for an investment. It outlines the problem, analyzes costs, benefits, and risks, and justifies the proposed solution. It aligns the investment with the firm's strategic goals and overall information systems plan.

    Factors in Business Case: Seven major factors to consider include:

    Long-term strategic goals (e.g., lowering production costs, product differentiation, global expansion, competitive capabilities)

    Improved decision making

    Customer and supplier relationships

    Survival (market requirements and ESG goals)

    New products and services

    Financial rationale

    Alignment with the long-term IT plan

    Information Systems Plan: This plan supports the overall business plan and includes:

    Purpose and rationale

    Current system state

    New developments

    Management strategy

    Implementation plan

    Budget

    Plan Development: Typically overseen by the CIO and approved by the CEO and Board of Directors. It includes organizational goals, specific system projects, target dates, milestones, and key management decisions.

    Inventory and Documentation: Firms need to inventory all information system applications, IT infrastructure, and information requirements. Metrics should be developed to quantify the value of improved decision-making.

    Organizational Changes: The plan should describe necessary changes in management, employee training, business processes, and authority structures. The business case for a new system should show how it fits into this plan.

    14.2 Describe Methods for Evaluating IT Investments

    Portfolio Analysis:

    Inventories all information systems projects and assets.

    Evaluates projects based on risk and benefit, similar to a financial portfolio.

    Focus on high-benefit, low-risk projects first, then high-benefit, high-risk projects.

    Avoid low-benefit, high-risk projects; reconsider low-benefit, low-risk projects.

    Scoring Models:

    Useful for projects with multiple criteria.

    Assigns weights to various features and calculates weighted totals.

    Helps in reaching agreement on evaluation criteria.

    Determining Solution Costs and Benefits:

    Assess if the system is a good investment.

    Tangible benefits can be quantified; intangible benefits may lead to long-term gains.

    Total cost of ownership (TCO) includes all IT expenditure components.

    Capital Budgeting Models:

    Measure the value of long-term IT projects.

    Calculate all costs and benefits to determine financial worth.

    Principal models: payback method, ROI, NPV, IRR.

    Consider cash inflows and outflows for financial analysis.

    Limitations of Financial Models:

    Often overlook social and organizational dimensions.

    May not consider costs from organizational disruptions or intangible benefits.

    Software for Technology Investment Decisions:

    Technology business management (TBM) framework translates technology investments into business value.

    IT financial management (ITFM) tools help analyze, plan, and control IT project costs.

    IBM Apptio is a leading ITFM tool for managing technology spending decisions.

    14.3 Describe Project Management Methodologies and Variables

    Project management involves applying knowledge, skills, tools, and techniques to achieve specific targets within budget and time constraints. Key activities include planning, risk assessment, resource estimation, task assignment, directing activities, controlling execution, progress reporting, and result analysis.

    Project management methodologies:

    Waterfall methodology: A traditional, linear approach with distinct phases (requirements, implementation, deployment). Emphasizes detailed documentation.

    Agile methodology: Focuses on adaptability and flexibility, using "sprints" to complete work in short, specified periods. Documentation is less emphasized compared to the waterfall method.

    Project management variables:

    Scope: Defines what is included or excluded in a project. Ensures the project does not expand beyond its original intent.

    Time: The duration required to complete the project. Involves breaking down the project into tasks and establishing a schedule.

    Cost: Calculated by multiplying the time required by the cost of human resources, including hardware, software, and workspace expenses. A budget is developed and monitored.

    Quality: Measures how well the project meets management's objectives, focusing on improved performance, decision-making, accuracy, timeliness, and ease of use.

    Risk: Potential problems that could threaten the project's success, affecting time, cost, quality, or completion.

    Technical debt: Results from trade-offs between time, cost, and quality. Short-term decisions to meet deadlines can lead to long-term issues affecting performance, scalability, and functionality. Managing technical debt is crucial for innovation and growth, with firms actively reducing technical debt experiencing higher revenue growth.

    14.4 Understand the Importance of Effective Project Management

    High failure rate of information systems projects: Many projects take more time and money than anticipated or fail to work properly.

    Incorrect assessment of business value: Firms may misjudge the value of new systems or struggle with organizational changes required by new technology.

    Importance of project management: Proper management and execution are crucial for the success of information systems projects.

    Runaway projects: Private sector projects often exceed budgets and timelines, with many delivered with missing functionality.

    Statistics on project failures: Large software projects typically run 66% over budget and 33% over schedule. Digital transformation projects have a 45% chance of delivering less profit than expected.

    Consequences of poor project management:

    Costs exceeding budgets

    Unexpected time delays

    Technical performance below expectations

    Failure to achieve anticipated benefits

    Impact on system usage: Failed projects may result in systems not being used as intended or not used at all, leading to the development of parallel manual systems.

    Design failures: Systems may not capture essential business requirements, provide timely or usable information, or improve organizational performance.

    User interface issues: Poorly designed interfaces can discourage use, such as cluttered web pages or difficult data entry screens.

    Data quality problems: Inaccurate, inconsistent, or improperly organized data can hinder business functions and make information inaccessible.

    14.5 Discuss Project Risk Factors

    Dimensions of Project Risk:

    Project size: Larger projects have higher risk due to complexity and difficulty in control. Factors include dollars spent, staff size, implementation time, and organizational units affected. Large-scale projects often fail to meet objectives.

    Project structure: Projects with clear, well-defined requirements have lower risk. Projects with undefined, fluid requirements and changing user needs have higher risk.

    Experience with technology: Lack of technical expertise in the project team increases risk. Familiarity with hardware, software, and database systems is crucial to avoid technical problems and delays.

    Change Management and Implementation:

    Behavioral and organizational impact: New information systems can change authority and power distributions, leading to resistance and opposition.

    Implementation: Involves all activities toward adopting and managing a new system. Systems analysts act as change agents, ensuring acceptance and adjustment to changes.

    Role of End Users:

    User involvement: High levels of user participation in design and operation lead to better outcomes and positive reactions to the system.

    User-designer communications gap: Differences in backgrounds and priorities between users and information systems specialists can lead to communication problems and project failure.

    Management Support and Commitment:

    Importance of backing: Management support ensures positive perception, sufficient funding, and resources. It also enforces changes in work habits and organizational realignments.

    Challenges in Business Process Management and Enterprise Applications:

    High failure rate: Many large-scale projects fail to deliver promised benefits due to poor implementation and change management.

    Employee concerns: Addressing fear, anxiety, and resistance is crucial. Coordination among functional groups and extensive business process change are required for success.

    Spotlight on Management Case Study

    Happy Feet International, a luxury vinyl plank and tile flooring distributor, expanded significantly from a small family-owned business in 2012 to a large company with over 300 employees and 13 warehouses by 2024.

    The company faced significant challenges with outdated technology, including an old in-house ERP system that caused inventory tracking issues and manual processes that led to inefficiencies and higher shipping costs.

    To address these issues, Happy Feet adopted the Kuebix TMS platform, a cloud-based transportation management system, which helped save over $1 million by optimizing shipping decisions.

    They also implemented a new ERP system from Oracle NetSuite, which faced challenges due to change management issues, such as resistance from long-term employees and undocumented processes.

    Happy Feet overcame these challenges by engaging employees in conversations about change, providing extensive training, and simplifying the new system's usage.

    The integration of Kuebix TMS with the NetSuite ERP system streamlined operations, reduced manual order data entry, and improved shipment visibility, leading to better customer service and accountability for carriers.

    The new ERP system resolved inventory issues, allowing for biannual inventory checks instead of monthly, resulting in significant savings.

    Overall, the new systems made Happy Feet faster, leaner, and more scalable.

    14.6 Understand How Project Risks Can Be Managed

    Project Management and Risk Handling

    Identifying and managing project risks is crucial for success.

    Frequent communication and collaboration help adapt to unforeseen problems.

    Managing Technical Complexity

    Success depends on managing technical complexity effectively.

    Project leaders need both technical and administrative experience.

    Teams should have frequent meetings and secure external expertise if needed.

    Formal Planning and Control Tools

    Gantt Charts: Visualize project activities, start and end dates, and resource requirements.

    PERT Charts: Show task dependencies and sequence of activities.

    Kanban Boards: Visualize tasks and project stages, often used in agile management.

    Increasing User Involvement and Overcoming Resistance

    User involvement is essential in projects with undefined requirements.

    Strategies to overcome resistance include user participation, education, training, and better incentives.

    Addressing organizational problems before introducing new systems can improve user cooperation.

    Designing for the Organization

    New systems should improve organizational performance and consider changes in job functions, structure, and work environment.

    Ergonomics and user interface design are important for user interaction with the system.

    Organizational impact analysis should be thorough and documented.

    Sociotechnical Design

    Combines technical efficiency with sensitivity to organizational and human needs.

    Separate technical and social design solutions are compared to select the best overall solution.

    Project Management Software Tools

    Automate task definition, resource assignment, progress tracking, and modifications.

    Tools like Microsoft Project and cloud-based applications facilitate project management.

    Project portfolio management software helps manage multiple projects and their dependencies.

    AI in Project Management

    AI enhances efficiency by automating routine tasks and analyzing project data.

    AI tools improve team collaboration and communication, such as ClickUp Brain for task management and content creation.

    14.7 Understand How the Information in This Chapter Can Help Your Career

    Familiarize yourself with various methods to build a business case for investments in information systems.

    Understand the importance of effective project management in developing information systems.

    Learn about various project management methodologies.

    Identify the principal risk factors in developing information system projects.

    Explore methods and tools to manage risks in information system projects.

    Real-World Scenario: Project Managers Help Intuit Launch New Cloud Platform

    Intuit is a leading provider of financial management software and tools, such as TurboTax and QuickBooks.

    The company launched the Intuit Analytics Cloud (IAC) project to better utilize data across the organization and improve customer experiences.

    The IAC project integrated all enterprise data, product data, and third-party data into a single platform.

    Cooperation across the entire company was required, involving various functional teams from Intuit’s data engineering group.

    The project was broken down into manageable pieces rather than using a "big bang" approach, making it easier to handle and implement.

    Smaller project deliverables helped in managing deadlines and budgets, and in gaining support from business unit leaders.

    The success of these smaller deliverables allowed for demonstrable results, facilitating the authorization of project expenditures.

    The IAC project was successful, and Intuit’s business units are now eager to use the new enterprise analytics cloud.

    Chapter Case Study

    Southwest Airlines experienced a major operational disruption in December 2022, canceling nearly 17,000 flights due to outdated software systems and poor managerial decisions regarding IT investments.

    The primary issue was the reliance on a twenty-year-old crew scheduling software system called SkySolver, which was overwhelmed during winter storm Elliott, leading to significant delays and cancellations.

    Technical debt, the reliance on older or deficient software needing updates, was a significant problem for Southwest, with analysts noting the airline's delinquency in addressing these issues compared to other major U.S. airlines.

    In response to the meltdown, Southwest allocated $1.3 billion in January 2023 to IT upgrades and improving operational resiliency, including enhancing crew engagement technology and updating crew recovery systems.

    Southwest chose Amazon Web Services as its preferred cloud provider in March 2023, making cloud migration central to its modernization efforts.

    A project team led by CIO Lauren Woods developed the Crew and Aircraft Integrated Recovery and Optimizer (CAIRO) tool to automate and optimize crew and aircraft reassignment, minimizing the impact on crew members.

    By January 2024, Southwest announced an additional $1.7 billion investment in technology and cloud migration, aiming to shift more of its tech estate to the cloud for improved resiliency and modernization.

    Review Questions

    Building a Business Case

    Types of information systems projects

    Components of a business case for a proposed investment

    Major components of an information systems plan

    Evaluating IT Investments

    Difference between tangible and intangible benefits

    Six tangible benefits and six intangible benefits of an IT investment

    Use of portfolio analysis, scoring models, and capital budgeting models to establish the worth of systems

    Limitations of using financial models to evaluate IT investments

    Software available to help make technology investment decisions

    Project Management Methodologies and Variables

    Definition of project management

    Project management activities and variables

    Definition of technical debt and its causes

    Importance of Effective Project Management

    Problems arising from poor project management in developing an information system

    Project Risk Factors

    Principal risk factors in information systems projects

    Importance of addressing implementation and change management in new information systems

    Managing Project Risks

    Importance of management and end-user support for successful implementation of information systems projects

    Strategies for controlling project risk

    Organizational considerations in project planning and implementation

    Contribution of project management software tools to successful project management

    Discussion Questions

    Project management significantly impacts the success of a new information system: Effective project management ensures that the project is completed on time, within budget, and meets the required quality standards. It involves planning, organizing, and managing resources to achieve specific goals.

    Ignoring organizational behavior problems can lead to system failure: Systems builders often focus on technical aspects and overlook how the system will be used within the organization. Organizational behavior problems, such as resistance to change, lack of user involvement, and poor communication, can hinder the successful implementation and adoption of the system.

    End users play a crucial role in information systems project management: Their involvement is essential for gathering requirements, providing feedback, and ensuring the system meets their needs. Engaging end users throughout the project helps in identifying potential issues early and increases the likelihood of user acceptance and satisfaction.

    Hands-On MIS Projects

    Caterpillar is considering ending support for its Dealer Business System (DBS) and transferring it to Accenture Consultants. Key factors to consider include the impact on dealers, the transition process, and the future support structure.

    When evaluating the ROI for a new CAD system, you need to account for hardware, software, networking, installation, training, and support costs. Calculate the ROI by dividing the net benefit (Total Benefits minus Total Costs) by the total cost of the investment. Consider both one-time and recurring costs and benefits over a five-year period.

    Use one of the four capital budgeting models (payback method, accounting rate of return, net present value, internal rate of return) to analyze the investment's worthiness.

    **insssummaryChapter13.docx**

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    **## inssweek8.docx**

    Must be authentic answer each question at 400 words per questions with citations.

    The questions below are based on the following three case studies of systems/services development initiatives. Apply the content of Chapters 13 and 14 (Laudon, Laudon, and Traver. Management Information Systems: Managing the Digital Firm, 18th Edition, Pearson, ©2026. ISBN-13:  9780138344245.), plus your own independent research into the concepts, notions, and theories in these two chapters to address these questions.

    · Building digital ecosystems from within: A case from life insurance (
    [http://proxy-ub.researchport.umd.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/abiglobal/scholarly-journals/building-digital-ecosystems-within-case-life/docview/3283145119/sem-2?accountid=28969](http://proxy-ub.researchport.umd.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/abiglobal/scholarly-journals/building-digital-ecosystems-within-case-life/docview/3283145119/sem-2?accountid=28969))

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    Questions:

    1. Assess the management, organization, and technology factors that contributed to each organization’s pre- IT-initiative condition.

    2. What were the key risk factors of each systems initiative? How well did each organization control, or plan to control, these risks? What would you have done additionally or differently to manage these risks?

    3. How did each IT initiative help align the organization better with its goals? What business value was achieved in each instance?
    (You may apply one or more of the following concepts in your analysis for this question: Porter’s competitive forces model, the value chain model, synergies, core competencies, and network economics.)

    **## InsssummaryChapter14.docx**

    Here is the summary of the content from Chapter 14: Making the Business Case for Information Systems and Managing Projects:

    Opening Case Study

    BigCommerce is a global e-commerce technology company providing a cloud-based SaaS e-commerce platform for B2C, B2B, and omnichannel solutions.

    The platform includes features like online store design, catalog management, hosting, checkout, order management, reporting, and integration with third-party services.

    BigCommerce offers development and professional services, including solutions architecting, data migration, and project management.

    Previously, BigCommerce used spreadsheets, email, and collaboration tools like Google Drive and Google Docs for project management, which were insufficient for scaling and managing larger projects.

    BigCommerce needed a project management tool to handle over 100 global projects, measure metrics, and manage customer interactions.

    After evaluating several tools, BigCommerce chose Wrike for its comprehensive project management capabilities.

    Wrike is an integrated SaaS tool available as a web-based tool and mobile app, supporting multiple languages.

    Wrike helps coordinate projects across teams, provides visibility into project progress, resources, and costs, and improves accountability.

    Wrike integrates easily with existing infrastructure and applications like Slack and Salesforce and supports both agile and waterfall project management approaches.

    Using Wrike, BigCommerce improved project organization, communication with customers, reporting, and analytics, leading to better business decisions and cost predictions.

    Wrike enabled BigCommerce to analyze team efficiency, improve "time to value," and enhance customer satisfaction.

    Successful implementation of Wrike required changes to project management processes and attention to organizational change.

    BigCommerce's management recognized the need for a new project management system to improve resource efficiency, collaboration, and project portfolio management.

    14.1 Explain How to Build a Business Case

    Projects and Information Systems: Projects are planned activities aimed at achieving specific business objectives. Information systems projects can involve developing new systems, enhancing existing ones, or upgrading IT infrastructure.

    Business Case: A business case is a proposal seeking approval for an investment. It outlines the problem, analyzes costs, benefits, and risks, and justifies the proposed solution. It aligns the investment with the firm's strategic goals and overall information systems plan.

    Factors in Business Case: Seven major factors to consider include:

    Long-term strategic goals (e.g., lowering production costs, product differentiation, global expansion, competitive capabilities)

    Improved decision making

    Customer and supplier relationships

    Survival (market requirements and ESG goals)

    New products and services

    Financial rationale

    Alignment with the long-term IT plan

    Information Systems Plan: This plan supports the overall business plan and includes:

    Purpose and rationale

    Current system state

    New developments

    Management strategy

    Implementation plan

    Budget

    Plan Development: Typically overseen by the CIO and approved by the CEO and Board of Directors. It includes organizational goals, specific system projects, target dates, milestones, and key management decisions.

    Inventory and Documentation: Firms need to inventory all information system applications, IT infrastructure, and information requirements. Metrics should be developed to quantify the value of improved decision-making.

    Organizational Changes: The plan should describe necessary changes in management, employee training, business processes, and authority structures. The business case for a new system should show how it fits into this plan.

    14.2 Describe Methods for Evaluating IT Investments

    Portfolio Analysis:

    Inventories all information systems projects and assets.

    Evaluates projects based on risk and benefit, similar to a financial portfolio.

    Focus on high-benefit, low-risk projects first, then high-benefit, high-risk projects.

    Avoid low-benefit, high-risk projects; reconsider low-benefit, low-risk projects.

    Scoring Models:

    Useful for projects with multiple criteria.

    Assigns weights to various features and calculates weighted totals.

    Helps in reaching agreement on evaluation criteria.

    Determining Solution Costs and Benefits:

    Assess if the system is a good investment.

    Tangible benefits can be quantified; intangible benefits may lead to long-term gains.

    Total cost of ownership (TCO) includes all IT expenditure components.

    Capital Budgeting Models:

    Measure the value of long-term IT projects.

    Calculate all costs and benefits to determine financial worth.

    Principal models: payback method, ROI, NPV, IRR.

    Consider cash inflows and outflows for financial analysis.

    Limitations of Financial Models:

    Often overlook social and organizational dimensions.

    May not consider costs from organizational disruptions or intangible benefits.

    Software for Technology Investment Decisions:

    Technology business management (TBM) framework translates technology investments into business value.

    IT financial management (ITFM) tools help analyze, plan, and control IT project costs.

    IBM Apptio is a leading ITFM tool for managing technology spending decisions.

    14.3 Describe Project Management Methodologies and Variables

    Project management involves applying knowledge, skills, tools, and techniques to achieve specific targets within budget and time constraints. Key activities include planning, risk assessment, resource estimation, task assignment, directing activities, controlling execution, progress reporting, and result analysis.

    Project management methodologies:

    Waterfall methodology: A traditional, linear approach with distinct phases (requirements, implementation, deployment). Emphasizes detailed documentation.

    Agile methodology: Focuses on adaptability and flexibility, using "sprints" to complete work in short, specified periods. Documentation is less emphasized compared to the waterfall method.

    Project management variables:

    Scope: Defines what is included or excluded in a project. Ensures the project does not expand beyond its original intent.

    Time: The duration required to complete the project. Involves breaking down the project into tasks and establishing a schedule.

    Cost: Calculated by multiplying the time required by the cost of human resources, including hardware, software, and workspace expenses. A budget is developed and monitored.

    Quality: Measures how well the project meets management's objectives, focusing on improved performance, decision-making, accuracy, timeliness, and ease of use.

    Risk: Potential problems that could threaten the project's success, affecting time, cost, quality, or completion.

    Technical debt: Results from trade-offs between time, cost, and quality. Short-term decisions to meet deadlines can lead to long-term issues affecting performance, scalability, and functionality. Managing technical debt is crucial for innovation and growth, with firms actively reducing technical debt experiencing higher revenue growth.

    14.4 Understand the Importance of Effective Project Management

    High failure rate of information systems projects: Many projects take more time and money than anticipated or fail to work properly.

    Incorrect assessment of business value: Firms may misjudge the value of new systems or struggle with organizational changes required by new technology.

    Importance of project management: Proper management and execution are crucial for the success of information systems projects.

    Runaway projects: Private sector projects often exceed budgets and timelines, with many delivered with missing functionality.

    Statistics on project failures: Large software projects typically run 66% over budget and 33% over schedule. Digital transformation projects have a 45% chance of delivering less profit than expected.

    Consequences of poor project management:

    Costs exceeding budgets

    Unexpected time delays

    Technical performance below expectations

    Failure to achieve anticipated benefits

    Impact on system usage: Failed projects may result in systems not being used as intended or not used at all, leading to the development of parallel manual systems.

    Design failures: Systems may not capture essential business requirements, provide timely or usable information, or improve organizational performance.

    User interface issues: Poorly designed interfaces can discourage use, such as cluttered web pages or difficult data entry screens.

    Data quality problems: Inaccurate, inconsistent, or improperly organized data can hinder business functions and make information inaccessible.

    14.5 Discuss Project Risk Factors

    Dimensions of Project Risk:

    Project size: Larger projects have higher risk due to complexity and difficulty in control. Factors include dollars spent, staff size, implementation time, and organizational units affected. Large-scale projects often fail to meet objectives.

    Project structure: Projects with clear, well-defined requirements have lower risk. Projects with undefined, fluid requirements and changing user needs have higher risk.

    Experience with technology: Lack of technical expertise in the project team increases risk. Familiarity with hardware, software, and database systems is crucial to avoid technical problems and delays.

    Change Management and Implementation:

    Behavioral and organizational impact: New information systems can change authority and power distributions, leading to resistance and opposition.

    Implementation: Involves all activities toward adopting and managing a new system. Systems analysts act as change agents, ensuring acceptance and adjustment to changes.

    Role of End Users:

    User involvement: High levels of user participation in design and operation lead to better outcomes and positive reactions to the system.

    User-designer communications gap: Differences in backgrounds and priorities between users and information systems specialists can lead to communication problems and project failure.

    Management Support and Commitment:

    Importance of backing: Management support ensures positive perception, sufficient funding, and resources. It also enforces changes in work habits and organizational realignments.

    Challenges in Business Process Management and Enterprise Applications:

    High failure rate: Many large-scale projects fail to deliver promised benefits due to poor implementation and change management.

    Employee concerns: Addressing fear, anxiety, and resistance is crucial. Coordination among functional groups and extensive business process change are required for success.

    Spotlight on Management Case Study

    Happy Feet International, a luxury vinyl plank and tile flooring distributor, expanded significantly from a small family-owned business in 2012 to a large company with over 300 employees and 13 warehouses by 2024.

    The company faced significant challenges with outdated technology, including an old in-house ERP system that caused inventory tracking issues and manual processes that led to inefficiencies and higher shipping costs.

    To address these issues, Happy Feet adopted the Kuebix TMS platform, a cloud-based transportation management system, which helped save over $1 million by optimizing shipping decisions.

    They also implemented a new ERP system from Oracle NetSuite, which faced challenges due to change management issues, such as resistance from long-term employees and undocumented processes.

    Happy Feet overcame these challenges by engaging employees in conversations about change, providing extensive training, and simplifying the new system's usage.

    The integration of Kuebix TMS with the NetSuite ERP system streamlined operations, reduced manual order data entry, and improved shipment visibility, leading to better customer service and accountability for carriers.

    The new ERP system resolved inventory issues, allowing for biannual inventory checks instead of monthly, resulting in significant savings.

    Overall, the new systems made Happy Feet faster, leaner, and more scalable.

    14.6 Understand How Project Risks Can Be Managed

    Project Management and Risk Handling

    Identifying and managing project risks is crucial for success.

    Frequent communication and collaboration help adapt to unforeseen problems.

    Managing Technical Complexity

    Success depends on managing technical complexity effectively.

    Project leaders need both technical and administrative experience.

    Teams should have frequent meetings and secure external expertise if needed.

    Formal Planning and Control Tools

    Gantt Charts: Visualize project activities, start and end dates, and resource requirements.

    PERT Charts: Show task dependencies and sequence of activities.

    Kanban Boards: Visualize tasks and project stages, often used in agile management.

    Increasing User Involvement and Overcoming Resistance

    User involvement is essential in projects with undefined requirements.

    Strategies to overcome resistance include user participation, education, training, and better incentives.

    Addressing organizational problems before introducing new systems can improve user cooperation.

    Designing for the Organization

    New systems should improve organizational performance and consider changes in job functions, structure, and work environment.

    Ergonomics and user interface design are important for user interaction with the system.

    Organizational impact analysis should be thorough and documented.

    Sociotechnical Design

    Combines technical efficiency with sensitivity to organizational and human needs.

    Separate technical and social design solutions are compared to select the best overall solution.

    Project Management Software Tools

    Automate task definition, resource assignment, progress tracking, and modifications.

    Tools like Microsoft Project and cloud-based applications facilitate project management.

    Project portfolio management software helps manage multiple projects and their dependencies.

    AI in Project Management

    AI enhances efficiency by automating routine tasks and analyzing project data.

    AI tools improve team collaboration and communication, such as ClickUp Brain for task management and content creation.

    14.7 Understand How the Information in This Chapter Can Help Your Career

    Familiarize yourself with various methods to build a business case for investments in information systems.

    Understand the importance of effective project management in developing information systems.

    Learn about various project management methodologies.

    Identify the principal risk factors in developing information system projects.

    Explore methods and tools to manage risks in information system projects.

    Real-World Scenario: Project Managers Help Intuit Launch New Cloud Platform

    Intuit is a leading provider of financial management software and tools, such as TurboTax and QuickBooks.

    The company launched the Intuit Analytics Cloud (IAC) project to better utilize data across the organization and improve customer experiences.

    The IAC project integrated all enterprise data, product data, and third-party data into a single platform.

    Cooperation across the entire company was required, involving various functional teams from Intuit’s data engineering group.

    The project was broken down into manageable pieces rather than using a "big bang" approach, making it easier to handle and implement.

    Smaller project deliverables helped in managing deadlines and budgets, and in gaining support from business unit leaders.

    The success of these smaller deliverables allowed for demonstrable results, facilitating the authorization of project expenditures.

    The IAC project was successful, and Intuit’s business units are now eager to use the new enterprise analytics cloud.

    Chapter Case Study

    Southwest Airlines experienced a major operational disruption in December 2022, canceling nearly 17,000 flights due to outdated software systems and poor managerial decisions regarding IT investments.

    The primary issue was the reliance on a twenty-year-old crew scheduling software system called SkySolver, which was overwhelmed during winter storm Elliott, leading to significant delays and cancellations.

    Technical debt, the reliance on older or deficient software needing updates, was a significant problem for Southwest, with analysts noting the airline's delinquency in addressing these issues compared to other major U.S. airlines.

    In response to the meltdown, Southwest allocated $1.3 billion in January 2023 to IT upgrades and improving operational resiliency, including enhancing crew engagement technology and updating crew recovery systems.

    Southwest chose Amazon Web Services as its preferred cloud provider in March 2023, making cloud migration central to its modernization efforts.

    A project team led by CIO Lauren Woods developed the Crew and Aircraft Integrated Recovery and Optimizer (CAIRO) tool to automate and optimize crew and aircraft reassignment, minimizing the impact on crew members.

    By January 2024, Southwest announced an additional $1.7 billion investment in technology and cloud migration, aiming to shift more of its tech estate to the cloud for improved resiliency and modernization.

    Review Questions

    Building a Business Case

    Types of information systems projects

    Components of a business case for a proposed investment

    Major components of an information systems plan

    Evaluating IT Investments

    Difference between tangible and intangible benefits

    Six tangible benefits and six intangible benefits of an IT investment

    Use of portfolio analysis, scoring models, and capital budgeting models to establish the worth of systems

    Limitations of using financial models to evaluate IT investments

    Software available to help make technology investment decisions

    Project Management Methodologies and Variables

    Definition of project management

    Project management activities and variables

    Definition of technical debt and its causes

    Importance of Effective Project Management

    Problems arising from poor project management in developing an information system

    Project Risk Factors

    Principal risk factors in information systems projects

    Importance of addressing implementation and change management in new information systems

    Managing Project Risks

    Importance of management and end-user support for successful implementation of information systems projects

    Strategies for controlling project risk

    Organizational considerations in project planning and implementation

    Contribution of project management software tools to successful project management

    Discussion Questions

    Project management significantly impacts the success of a new information system: Effective project management ensures that the project is completed on time, within budget, and meets the required quality standards. It involves planning, organizing, and managing resources to achieve specific goals.

    Ignoring organizational behavior problems can lead to system failure: Systems builders often focus on technical aspects and overlook how the system will be used within the organization. Organizational behavior problems, such as resistance to change, lack of user involvement, and poor communication, can hinder the successful implementation and adoption of the system.

    End users play a crucial role in information systems project management: Their involvement is essential for gathering requirements, providing feedback, and ensuring the system meets their needs. Engaging end users throughout the project helps in identifying potential issues early and increases the likelihood of user acceptance and satisfaction.

    Hands-On MIS Projects

    Caterpillar is considering ending support for its Dealer Business System (DBS) and transferring it to Accenture Consultants. Key factors to consider include the impact on dealers, the transition process, and the future support structure.

    When evaluating the ROI for a new CAD system, you need to account for hardware, software, networking, installation, training, and support costs. Calculate the ROI by dividing the net benefit (Total Benefits minus Total Costs) by the total cost of the investment. Consider both one-time and recurring costs and benefits over a five-year period.

    Use one of the four capital budgeting models (payback method, accounting rate of return, net present value, internal rate of return) to analyze the investment's worthiness.

    **insssummaryChapter13.docx**

    This file is too large to display. [View in new window](https://www.sweetstudy.com/files/insssummarychapter13-docx)

    **## inssweek8.docx**

    Must be authentic answer each question at 400 words per questions with citations.

    The questions below are based on the following three case studies of systems/services development initiatives. Apply the content of Chapters 13 and 14 (Laudon, Laudon, and Traver. Management Information Systems: Managing the Digital Firm, 18th Edition, Pearson, ©2026. ISBN-13:  9780138344245.), plus your own independent research into the concepts, notions, and theories in these two chapters to address these questions.

    · Building digital ecosystems from within: A case from life insurance (
    [http://proxy-ub.researchport.umd.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/abiglobal/scholarly-journals/building-digital-ecosystems-within-case-life/docview/3283145119/sem-2?accountid=28969](http://proxy-ub.researchport.umd.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/abiglobal/scholarly-journals/building-digital-ecosystems-within-case-life/docview/3283145119/sem-2?accountid=28969))

    · Unraveling the generative mechanisms of smart technology and service design (
    [http://proxy-ub.researchport.umd.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/abiglobal/scholarly-journals/what-lies-beneath-unraveling-generative/docview/2500442502/sem-2?accountid=28969](http://proxy-ub.researchport.umd.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/abiglobal/scholarly-journals/what-lies-beneath-unraveling-generative/docview/2500442502/sem-2?accountid=28969))

    · A strategy for the implementation of standard data structures in financial management information systems (
    [http://proxy-ub.researchport.umd.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/abiglobal/scholarly-journals/strategy-implementation-standard-data-structures/docview/2611021612/sem-2?accountid=28969](http://proxy-ub.researchport.umd.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/abiglobal/scholarly-journals/strategy-implementation-standard-data-structures/docview/2611021612/sem-2?accountid=28969))

    Questions:

    1. Assess the management, organization, and technology factors that contributed to each organization’s pre- IT-initiative condition.

    2. What were the key risk factors of each systems initiative? How well did each organization control, or plan to control, these risks? What would you have done additionally or differently to manage these risks?

    3. How did each IT initiative help align the organization better with its goals? What business value was achieved in each instance?
    (You may apply one or more of the following concepts in your analysis for this question: Porter’s competitive forces model, the value chain model, synergies, core competencies, and network economics.)

    **## InsssummaryChapter14.docx**

    Here is the summary of the content from Chapter 14: Making the Business Case for Information Systems and Managing Projects:

    Opening Case Study

    BigCommerce is a global e-commerce technology company providing a cloud-based SaaS e-commerce platform for B2C, B2B, and omnichannel solutions.

    The platform includes features like online store design, catalog management, hosting, checkout, order management, reporting, and integration with third-party services.

    BigCommerce offers development and professional services, including solutions architecting, data migration, and project management.

    Previously, BigCommerce used spreadsheets, email, and collaboration tools like Google Drive and Google Docs for project management, which were insufficient for scaling and managing larger projects.

    BigCommerce needed a project management tool to handle over 100 global projects, measure metrics, and manage customer interactions.

    After evaluating several tools, BigCommerce chose Wrike for its comprehensive project management capabilities.

    Wrike is an integrated SaaS tool available as a web-based tool and mobile app, supporting multiple languages.

    Wrike helps coordinate projects across teams, provides visibility into project progress, resources, and costs, and improves accountability.

    Wrike integrates easily with existing infrastructure and applications like Slack and Salesforce and supports both agile and waterfall project management approaches.

    Using Wrike, BigCommerce improved project organization, communication with customers, reporting, and analytics, leading to better business decisions and cost predictions.

    Wrike enabled BigCommerce to analyze team efficiency, improve "time to value," and enhance customer satisfaction.

    Successful implementation of Wrike required changes to project management processes and attention to organizational change.

    BigCommerce's management recognized the need for a new project management system to improve resource efficiency, collaboration, and project portfolio management.

    14.1 Explain How to Build a Business Case

    Projects and Information Systems: Projects are planned activities aimed at achieving specific business objectives. Information systems projects can involve developing new systems, enhancing existing ones, or upgrading IT infrastructure.

    Business Case: A business case is a proposal seeking approval for an investment. It outlines the problem, analyzes costs, benefits, and risks, and justifies the proposed solution. It aligns the investment with the firm's strategic goals and overall information systems plan.

    Factors in Business Case: Seven major factors to consider include:

    Long-term strategic goals (e.g., lowering production costs, product differentiation, global expansion, competitive capabilities)

    Improved decision making

    Customer and supplier relationships

    Survival (market requirements and ESG goals)

    New products and services

    Financial rationale

    Alignment with the long-term IT plan

    Information Systems Plan: This plan supports the overall business plan and includes:

    Purpose and rationale

    Current system state

    New developments

    Management strategy

    Implementation plan

    Budget

    Plan Development: Typically overseen by the CIO and approved by the CEO and Board of Directors. It includes organizational goals, specific system projects, target dates, milestones, and key management decisions.

    Inventory and Documentation: Firms need to inventory all information system applications, IT infrastructure, and information requirements. Metrics should be developed to quantify the value of improved decision-making.

    Organizational Changes: The plan should describe necessary changes in management, employee training, business processes, and authority structures. The business case for a new system should show how it fits into this plan.

    14.2 Describe Methods for Evaluating IT Investments

    Portfolio Analysis:

    Inventories all information systems projects and assets.

    Evaluates projects based on risk and benefit, similar to a financial portfolio.

    Focus on high-benefit, low-risk projects first, then high-benefit, high-risk projects.

    Avoid low-benefit, high-risk projects; reconsider low-benefit, low-risk projects.

    Scoring Models:

    Useful for projects with multiple criteria.

    Assigns weights to various features and calculates weighted totals.

    Helps in reaching agreement on evaluation criteria.

    Determining Solution Costs and Benefits:

    Assess if the system is a good investment.

    Tangible benefits can be quantified; intangible benefits may lead to long-term gains.

    Total cost of ownership (TCO) includes all IT expenditure components.

    Capital Budgeting Models:

    Measure the value of long-term IT projects.

    Calculate all costs and benefits to determine financial worth.

    Principal models: payback method, ROI, NPV, IRR.

    Consider cash inflows and outflows for financial analysis.

    Limitations of Financial Models:

    Often overlook social and organizational dimensions.

    May not consider costs from organizational disruptions or intangible benefits.

    Software for Technology Investment Decisions:

    Technology business management (TBM) framework translates technology investments into business value.

    IT financial management (ITFM) tools help analyze, plan, and control IT project costs.

    IBM Apptio is a leading ITFM tool for managing technology spending decisions.

    14.3 Describe Project Management Methodologies and Variables

    Project management involves applying knowledge, skills, tools, and techniques to achieve specific targets within budget and time constraints. Key activities include planning, risk assessment, resource estimation, task assignment, directing activities, controlling execution, progress reporting, and result analysis.

    Project management methodologies:

    Waterfall methodology: A traditional, linear approach with distinct phases (requirements, implementation, deployment). Emphasizes detailed documentation.

    Agile methodology: Focuses on adaptability and flexibility, using "sprints" to complete work in short, specified periods. Documentation is less emphasized compared to the waterfall method.

    Project management variables:

    Scope: Defines what is included or excluded in a project. Ensures the project does not expand beyond its original intent.

    Time: The duration required to complete the project. Involves breaking down the project into tasks and establishing a schedule.

    Cost: Calculated by multiplying the time required by the cost of human resources, including hardware, software, and workspace expenses. A budget is developed and monitored.

    Quality: Measures how well the project meets management's objectives, focusing on improved performance, decision-making, accuracy, timeliness, and ease of use.

    Risk: Potential problems that could threaten the project's success, affecting time, cost, quality, or completion.

    Technical debt: Results from trade-offs between time, cost, and quality. Short-term decisions to meet deadlines can lead to long-term issues affecting performance, scalability, and functionality. Managing technical debt is crucial for innovation and growth, with firms actively reducing technical debt experiencing higher revenue growth.

    14.4 Understand the Importance of Effective Project Management

    High failure rate of information systems projects: Many projects take more time and money than anticipated or fail to work properly.

    Incorrect assessment of business value: Firms may misjudge the value of new systems or struggle with organizational changes required by new technology.

    Importance of project management: Proper management and execution are crucial for the success of information systems projects.

    Runaway projects: Private sector projects often exceed budgets and timelines, with many delivered with missing functionality.

    Statistics on project failures: Large software projects typically run 66% over budget and 33% over schedule. Digital transformation projects have a 45% chance of delivering less profit than expected.

    Consequences of poor project management:

    Costs exceeding budgets

    Unexpected time delays

    Technical performance below expectations

    Failure to achieve anticipated benefits

    Impact on system usage: Failed projects may result in systems not being used as intended or not used at all, leading to the development of parallel manual systems.

    Design failures: Systems may not capture essential business requirements, provide timely or usable information, or improve organizational performance.

    User interface issues: Poorly designed interfaces can discourage use, such as cluttered web pages or difficult data entry screens.

    Data quality problems: Inaccurate, inconsistent, or improperly organized data can hinder business functions and make information inaccessible.

    14.5 Discuss Project Risk Factors

    Dimensions of Project Risk:

    Project size: Larger projects have higher risk due to complexity and difficulty in control. Factors include dollars spent, staff size, implementation time, and organizational units affected. Large-scale projects often fail to meet objectives.

    Project structure: Projects with clear, well-defined requirements have lower risk. Projects with undefined, fluid requirements and changing user needs have higher risk.

    Experience with technology: Lack of technical expertise in the project team increases risk. Familiarity with hardware, software, and database systems is crucial to avoid technical problems and delays.

    Change Management and Implementation:

    Behavioral and organizational impact: New information systems can change authority and power distributions, leading to resistance and opposition.

    Implementation: Involves all activities toward adopting and managing a new system. Systems analysts act as change agents, ensuring acceptance and adjustment to changes.

    Role of End Users:

    User involvement: High levels of user participation in design and operation lead to better outcomes and positive reactions to the system.

    User-designer communications gap: Differences in backgrounds and priorities between users and information systems specialists can lead to communication problems and project failure.

    Management Support and Commitment:

    Importance of backing: Management support ensures positive perception, sufficient funding, and resources. It also enforces changes in work habits and organizational realignments.

    Challenges in Business Process Management and Enterprise Applications:

    High failure rate: Many large-scale projects fail to deliver promised benefits due to poor implementation and change management.

    Employee concerns: Addressing fear, anxiety, and resistance is crucial. Coordination among functional groups and extensive business process change are required for success.

    Spotlight on Management Case Study

    Happy Feet International, a luxury vinyl plank and tile flooring distributor, expanded significantly from a small family-owned business in 2012 to a large company with over 300 employees and 13 warehouses by 2024.

    The company faced significant challenges with outdated technology, including an old in-house ERP system that caused inventory tracking issues and manual processes that led to inefficiencies and higher shipping costs.

    To address these issues, Happy Feet adopted the Kuebix TMS platform, a cloud-based transportation management system, which helped save over $1 million by optimizing shipping decisions.

    They also implemented a new ERP system from Oracle NetSuite, which faced challenges due to change management issues, such as resistance from long-term employees and undocumented processes.

    Happy Feet overcame these challenges by engaging employees in conversations about change, providing extensive training, and simplifying the new system's usage.

    The integration of Kuebix TMS with the NetSuite ERP system streamlined operations, reduced manual order data entry, and improved shipment visibility, leading to better customer service and accountability for carriers.

    The new ERP system resolved inventory issues, allowing for biannual inventory checks instead of monthly, resulting in significant savings.

    Overall, the new systems made Happy Feet faster, leaner, and more scalable.

    14.6 Understand How Project Risks Can Be Managed

    Project Management and Risk Handling

    Identifying and managing project risks is crucial for success.

    Frequent communication and collaboration help adapt to unforeseen problems.

    Managing Technical Complexity

    Success depends on managing technical complexity effectively.

    Project leaders need both technical and administrative experience.

    Teams should have frequent meetings and secure external expertise if needed.

    Formal Planning and Control Tools

    Gantt Charts: Visualize project activities, start and end dates, and resource requirements.

    PERT Charts: Show task dependencies and sequence of activities.

    Kanban Boards: Visualize tasks and project stages, often used in agile management.

    Increasing User Involvement and Overcoming Resistance

    User involvement is essential in projects with undefined requirements.

    Strategies to overcome resistance include user participation, education, training, and better incentives.

    Addressing organizational problems before introducing new systems can improve user cooperation.

    Designing for the Organization

    New systems should improve organizational performance and consider changes in job functions, structure, and work environment.

    Ergonomics and user interface design are important for user interaction with the system.

    Organizational impact analysis should be thorough and documented.

    Sociotechnical Design

    Combines technical efficiency with sensitivity to organizational and human needs.

    Separate technical and social design solutions are compared to select the best overall solution.

    Project Management Software Tools

    Automate task definition, resource assignment, progress tracking, and modifications.

    Tools like Microsoft Project and cloud-based applications facilitate project management.

    Project portfolio management software helps manage multiple projects and their dependencies.

    AI in Project Management

    AI enhances efficiency by automating routine tasks and analyzing project data.

    AI tools improve team collaboration and communication, such as ClickUp Brain for task management and content creation.

    14.7 Understand How the Information in This Chapter Can Help Your Career

    Familiarize yourself with various methods to build a business case for investments in information systems.

    Understand the importance of effective project management in developing information systems.

    Learn about various project management methodologies.

    Identify the principal risk factors in developing information system projects.

    Explore methods and tools to manage risks in information system projects.

    Real-World Scenario: Project Managers Help Intuit Launch New Cloud Platform

    Intuit is a leading provider of financial management software and tools, such as TurboTax and QuickBooks.

    The company launched the Intuit Analytics Cloud (IAC) project to better utilize data across the organization and improve customer experiences.

    The IAC project integrated all enterprise data, product data, and third-party data into a single platform.

    Cooperation across the entire company was required, involving various functional teams from Intuit’s data engineering group.

    The project was broken down into manageable pieces rather than using a "big bang" approach, making it easier to handle and implement.

    Smaller project deliverables helped in managing deadlines and budgets, and in gaining support from business unit leaders.

    The success of these smaller deliverables allowed for demonstrable results, facilitating the authorization of project expenditures.

    The IAC project was successful, and Intuit’s business units are now eager to use the new enterprise analytics cloud.

    Chapter Case Study

    Southwest Airlines experienced a major operational disruption in December 2022, canceling nearly 17,000 flights due to outdated software systems and poor managerial decisions regarding IT investments.

    The primary issue was the reliance on a twenty-year-old crew scheduling software system called SkySolver, which was overwhelmed during winter storm Elliott, leading to significant delays and cancellations.

    Technical debt, the reliance on older or deficient software needing updates, was a significant problem for Southwest, with analysts noting the airline's delinquency in addressing these issues compared to other major U.S. airlines.

    In response to the meltdown, Southwest allocated $1.3 billion in January 2023 to IT upgrades and improving operational resiliency, including enhancing crew engagement technology and updating crew recovery systems.

    Southwest chose Amazon Web Services as its preferred cloud provider in March 2023, making cloud migration central to its modernization efforts.

    A project team led by CIO Lauren Woods developed the Crew and Aircraft Integrated Recovery and Optimizer (CAIRO) tool to automate and optimize crew and aircraft reassignment, minimizing the impact on crew members.

    By January 2024, Southwest announced an additional $1.7 billion investment in technology and cloud migration, aiming to shift more of its tech estate to the cloud for improved resiliency and modernization.

    Review Questions

    Building a Business Case

    Types of information systems projects

    Components of a business case for a proposed investment

    Major components of an information systems plan

    Evaluating IT Investments

    Difference between tangible and intangible benefits

    Six tangible benefits and six intangible benefits of an IT investment

    Use of portfolio analysis, scoring models, and capital budgeting models to establish the worth of systems

    Limitations of using financial models to evaluate IT investments

    Software available to help make technology investment decisions

    Project Management Methodologies and Variables

    Definition of project management

    Project management activities and variables

    Definition of technical debt and its causes

    Importance of Effective Project Management

    Problems arising from poor project management in developing an information system

    Project Risk Factors

    Principal risk factors in information systems projects

    Importance of addressing implementation and change management in new information systems

    Managing Project Risks

    Importance of management and end-user support for successful implementation of information systems projects

    Strategies for controlling project risk

    Organizational considerations in project planning and implementation

    Contribution of project management software tools to successful project management

    Discussion Questions

    Project management significantly impacts the success of a new information system: Effective project management ensures that the project is completed on time, within budget, and meets the required quality standards. It involves planning, organizing, and managing resources to achieve specific goals.

    Ignoring organizational behavior problems can lead to system failure: Systems builders often focus on technical aspects and overlook how the system will be used within the organization. Organizational behavior problems, such as resistance to change, lack of user involvement, and poor communication, can hinder the successful implementation and adoption of the system.

    End users play a crucial role in information systems project management: Their involvement is essential for gathering requirements, providing feedback, and ensuring the system meets their needs. Engaging end users throughout the project helps in identifying potential issues early and increases the likelihood of user acceptance and satisfaction.

    Hands-On MIS Projects

    Caterpillar is considering ending support for its Dealer Business System (DBS) and transferring it to Accenture Consultants. Key factors to consider include the impact on dealers, the transition process, and the future support structure.

    When evaluating the ROI for a new CAD system, you need to account for hardware, software, networking, installation, training, and support costs. Calculate the ROI by dividing the net benefit (Total Benefits minus Total Costs) by the total cost of the investment. Consider both one-time and recurring costs and benefits over a five-year period.

    Use one of the four capital budgeting models (payback method, accounting rate of return, net present value, internal rate of return) to analyze the investment's worthiness.

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