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Showing papers in "Industrial Management and Data Systems in 1995"


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: A large body of literature emerged in the early 1980s which addressed the competitive implications of private investments in information systems (IS) at the level of individual firms as discussed by the authors, which is seen to offer a more complete basis for analysing the impact of information systems and interorganizational systems at the firm, industry and societal levels.
Abstract: A large body of literature emerged in the early 1980s which addressed the competitive implications of private investments in information systems (IS) at the level of individual firms. Provides a summary of the existing literature in this area which is based mostly on Porter′s work, as well as other disparate IS strategy literature. Discusses the limitations of the existing literature, and puts forward the stakeholder approach to strategic management because it is seen to offer a more complete basis for analysing the impact of information systems and interorganizational systems at the firm, industry and societal levels.

60 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the authors propose a reference model for the study of quality information systems within quality management, which includes three dimensions: quality management practices, quality information system (distinguishing between information flows and information technologies) and quality performance.
Abstract: Develops the theory on the role of information systems within quality management. Proposes a reference model for the study of quality information systems within quality management. The model includes three dimensions: quality management practices, quality information systems (distinguishing between information flows and information technologies) and quality performance. Proposes associated measures. Measures validity, and tests reliability on a sample of 34 manufacturing plants, with more than 100 employees, in the electronics, machinery and auto‐supplier industries. Also tests construct validity and internal consistency of model dimensions. The results show that the measures are valid and reliable and the model dimensions are valid constructs with a good internal consistency. The model proposed and the associated measures can therefore be used to study the relationships between quality management practices, quality information systems and quality performance.

56 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Soft systems methodology (SSM) is an approach to modelling human activity systems that is becoming increasingly popular as a means of learning about, and improving, such systems as mentioned in this paper, and any system that involves humans engaged in purposeful activity can be modelled using SSM.
Abstract: Soft systems methodology (SSM) is an approach to modelling human activity systems that is becoming increasingly popular as a means of learning about, and improving, such systems. Any system that involves humans engaged in purposeful activity can be modelled using SSM. Gives an overview of the methodology and its development, indicating the ways in which it can assist managers in the development of improved systems.

46 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, a new methodology for launching or expanding the commercialization of new underutilized technologies is discussed, which involves the active participation of international industrial opinion leaders in the commercial development process, and the role they can play in assessing the value and uniqueness of a technology, on a regional or global basis; determining those applications and end uses that address significant market needs and possess the greatest business potential for initial or expanded commercialization; and providing access to industry leading, prospective end-users and joint development partners to accelerate commercialization in domestic and/or international markets.
Abstract: Discusses a new methodology for launching or expanding the commercialization of new under‐utilized technologies. The approach discussed involves the active participation of international industrial opinion leaders in the commercial development process, and the role they can play in: assessing the value and uniqueness of a technology, on a regional or global basis; determining those applications and end uses that address significant market needs and possess the greatest business potential for initial or expanded commercialization; and providing access to industry leading, prospective end‐users and joint development partners to accelerate commercialization of the technology in domestic and/or international markets. Includes several case histories for Accelerated Commercialization – the methodology practised by SICO International Technologies, Inc. – involving highly diverse industries and technologies. Also includes a brief history of the evolution of the process of idea generation into the described method...

42 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the authors identify six major organizational problems when implementing and developing formal statistical forecasting procedures and provide solution strategies to these problems and discuss specific managerial implications, which is important to managers in order to gain the greatest benefit from the forecasting function.
Abstract: The usage of formal statistical forecasting procedures has been shown in numerous studies to improve forecast accuracy and, consequently, organizational performance. However, the process of implementing and managing this technology can run into many stumbling blocks. Identifies six major organizational problems when implementing and developing formal statistical forecasting procedures. Provides solution strategies to these problems and discusses specific managerial implications. This information is important to managers in order to gain the greatest benefit from the forecasting function.

22 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the authors conducted a study among managers in major US corporations regarding the use of ESS including specific products, features, and the strategic impact of using this technology.
Abstract: Software technology designed to provide managers with the capability to access internal and external information that is relevant to decision making and other managerial responsibilities is referred to as executive support systems. Reports the findings of a study conducted among managers in major US corporations regarding the use of executive support systems including specific products, features, and the strategic impact of using this technology. In addition, interviews were conducted among executive support systems commercial software vendors and data obtained from these interviews are presented in tabular form. Finally, discusses the future of the utilization of executive support systems for strategic advantage.

19 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the effect of discretion, outcome feedback, and process feedback on employee satisfaction was analyzed by analysing the effects of discretion and outcome feedback on the satisfaction of employees.
Abstract: A recent article reported that employees′ performance increased when they were allowed to chose the production method and were provided with the outcome feedback on their performance. Extends that study by analysing the effect of discretion, outcome feedback, and process feedback on employee satisfaction. The results of the experiments indicate that, although providing discretion and outcome feedback improved employee satisfaction, the improvement was statistically insignificant. The more interesting result indicates that satisfaction was significantly improved when employees were provided with process feedback in addition to discretion and outcome feedback.

18 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors compare the theory and practice of just-in-time (JIT) implementation in Silicon Glen and assess its success in six companies currently operating JIT production systems.
Abstract: Central Scotland has been successful in replacing many of its traditional industries with a network of over 300 electronics manufacturers and suppliers creating the area popularly known as “Silicon Glen”. Silicon Glen appears to be a very suitable site for the implementation of just‐in‐time (JIT) production systems with both electronics manufacturers and suppliers concentrated in the same geographical area. Contrasts the theory and practice of JIT implementation in “Silicon Glen” and assesses its success in six companies currently operating JIT production systems. The main conclusion is that JIT has been implemented in a variety of forms, with companies selecting the aspects of JIT that are most suitable for their manufacturing process and competitive strategy. JIT is proving highly successful and is bringing substantial gains in quality and efficiency.

15 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors use stakeholder theory to consider adoption and use of just-in-time (JIT) systems from a realistic and complete perspective, and discuss certain aspects of JIT that can generate ethical and philanthropic concerns related to a firm′s principal stakeholders.
Abstract: Decisions relating to adoption and use of just‐in‐time (JIT) are typically based on economic considerations. Experience with JIT systems indicates that certain non‐economic issues can arise which affect long‐term profitability. Suggests that stakeholder theory be used to consider JIT from a realistic and complete perspective. According to stakeholder theory, there are shared interests or interdependence between organizations and the various groups that have a stake in the firm. Thus organizations must consider their social responsibilities to their stakeholders, namely, economic, legal, ethical and philanthropic responsibilities. Discusses certain aspects of JIT that can generate ethical and philanthropic concerns related to a firm′s principal stakeholders – employers, suppliers, community, owners and customer. Concludes with a list of questions to initiate the process of identifying these types of issues for each stakeholder group.

13 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the authors address the need for re-engineering information systems in a rapidly changing environment, and the urgency of doing this to meet current and future needs of organizations whose existence is dependent on coping with rapidly changing requirements.
Abstract: Addresses the need for re‐engineering information systems (IS) in a rapidly changing environment, and the urgency of doing this to meet current and future needs of organizations whose existence is dependent on coping with rapidly changing requirements. Implicit in this view is the need for restructuring the industry to meet new applications including the creation of software for an era that has not quite arrived. Stresses the interdependence of technical, organizational, and human aspects in the integration of a broad range of new methodologies and tools needed to create software for the balance of this century. Re‐engineering is the examination and alteration of a system to reconstitute it in a new form and the subsequent implementation of the new form. Looks into the major management alternatives or options with particular focus on functional and information managers and their organizations.

10 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Executive information systems (EIS) are relatively new, Windows‐based software products which enable executives to access information easily and allow them to access internal and external databases for information in a summarized form.
Abstract: Executive information systems (EIS) are relatively new, Windows‐based software products which enable executives to access information easily. Historically, executives have been reluctant to use computers, principally because they did not know how and had no inclination to learn about them. Executives must have timely and accurate information to make effective decisions. EIS gives them this information by allowing them to access internal and external databases for information in a summarized form, then drill down on a specific area to see backup detail. As modern organizations reduce the workforce to implement cost‐cutting measures in a difficult economy, executives find themselves in a position of attempting to maintain or increase efficiency with fewer employees. Increasingly, they turn to technology to fill this gap, relying on various information systems including EIS.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Telephone interviews with 28 knowledge engineers who had developed ES for end‐users of all kinds from experts to novices are described, finding some suggestions for practitioners as lessons to be learned from the KEs′ experiences.
Abstract: Reports on the comments of knowledge engineers (KEs) on the implementation of expert systems (ES) in their organizations. Describes telephone interviews with 28 KEs who had developed ES for end‐users of all kinds from experts to novices. The questions in the interview focused on the types of expert systems being developed, the type of end‐users, the complexity of the system, the scope of the system, and the benefits the organization gained as a result of the ES implementation. Quotes and summarizes responses from the KEs. Gives some suggestions for practitioners as lessons to be learned from the KEs′ experiences.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The present situation with respect to the use of spreadsheet software in China is discussed and several reasons why the level of acceptance is low are presented.
Abstract: Spreadsheet software packages find ready applications in Western nations with a high proportion of PCs having a spreadsheet package installed. In Taiwan there is a high degree of acceptance of this class of software. In the People′s Republic of China, however, there is not the same degree of acceptance with only a very small proportion of end users utilizing this important class of software. Discusses the present situation with respect to the use of spreadsheet software in China and presents several reasons why the level is low.

Journal ArticleDOI
Abstract: Historically, a product was perceived as a “static manifestation of image with fixed attributes”. Today, advanced product design thinking is more likely to see it as a “company representative delivering service over time”. Explores this shift and demonstrates how contemporary practice is concerned with the entire customer‐product relationship over its whole life cycle – from pre‐purchase prejudice to disposal and how this relationship is itself at the heart of the way in which brand values, and brand loyalty, are created. In so doing looks at the most effective ways to manage the product design process – drawing on illustrations ranging from personal computers and telecommunications to cars and kitchen equipment.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: This article examined the value of expert systems in marketing organizations through a national mail survey of 117 marketing executives and found that while expert systems provide operational benefits (e.g., they assist in making decisions more quickly), they also present new problems that the adopting organization must consider.
Abstract: Examines the value of expert systems in marketing organizations through a national mail survey of 117 marketing executives. All the examined respondents reported the successful use of expert systems in their organizations. The results indicate that while expert systems provide operational benefits (e.g. they assist in making decisions more quickly), they also present new problems (e.g. increased security needs) that the adopting organization must consider. Based on these results, discusses implications for managers regarding the encouragement of the adoption and use of expert systems. Also presents questions concerning expert systems which require additional investigation.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: A survey of manufacturing companies showed that the initial investment associated with shifting to TQM was recouped in one year for 42.3 per cent of the responding companies as discussed by the authors.
Abstract: An extensive search of the literature showed no data on the payback times associated with moving to a total quality management (TQM) style of management. Given the company‐wide nature of the undertaking, and the fact that TQM conversion is generally considered to be a long‐term, difficult process, this finding was unexpected. A survey of manufacturing companies showed that the initial investment associated with shifting to TQM was recouped in one year for 42.3 per cent of the responding companies. Payback times were two years or less for 65.4 per cent of the companies and three years or less for 80.8 per cent of the companies. All companies that reported quantitative data expected their TQM efforts to be profitable eventually, if not already so. Thus, despite the substantial training, reorganization and systems modification costs, initial TQM investments are being paid back within a time frame similar to that for other large financial undertakings. The lack of financially unfavourable TQM programmes among...

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: A brief investigation into the underlying philosophy of this new knowledge‐based expert systems, which allow computers to assist in expert human tasks involving: complex planning and scheduling; diagnosis of diseases; locating mineral deposits; configuring complex computer hardware; and trouble‐shooting locomotive problems.
Abstract: Computers were originally intended to crunch numbers, store and retrieve data at high speeds, and create accounting reports. New software and even new computers have changed the use of computers in today′s business. The growth of a technology called artificial intelligence (AI) attempts to make a computer capable of manipulating symbols. A branch of AI that has evolved recently attempts to capture knowledge and perform tasks that would require a human expert. These types of computer systems are called knowledge‐based expert systems. Knowledge‐based expert systems, also called expert systems, allow computers to assist in expert human tasks involving: complex planning and scheduling; diagnosis of diseases; locating mineral deposits; configuring complex computer hardware; and trouble‐shooting locomotive problems. Expert systems are expected to change the way businesses operate by altering the way people think about solving problems. Conducts a brief investigation into the underlying philosophy of this new so...

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors examined the relationship between business strategy, organizational performance and manufacturing techniques and practices among 130 US companies and found that innovative strategies, which stress customer orientation and differentiation through careful manipulation of the operating systems to achieve higher levels of quality, flexibility and dependability, form the basis for strategic success.
Abstract: Examines the relationship between business strategy, organizational performance and manufacturing techniques and practices among 130 US companies. The research supports the notion that innovative strategies, which stress customer orientation and differentiation through the careful manipulation of the operating systems to achieve higher levels of quality, flexibility and dependability, form the basis for strategic success.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: A conceptual framework for large‐scale expert system development called an open‐based expert system (OES) architecture is outlined, which proposes partitioning large‐ scale expert systems development into smaller and autonomous expert system modules which communicate through a flexible interface.
Abstract: Increasing utilization of expert systems in organizations has necessitated development of large‐scale expert systems that deal with complex problem domains requiring handling of large knowledge bases. Adapts the concepts and structures of open information systems to outline a conceptual framework for large‐scale expert system development called an open‐based expert system (OES) architecture. The framework proposes partitioning large‐scale expert systems development into smaller and autonomous expert system modules which communicate through a flexible interface. The expert system modules may be built small enough to achieve reliability, and the open structure of the architecture allows the modules to be incorporated into a larger information system. The OES architecture is implemented on vp‐expert shell, and a prototype is developed to demonstrate its working.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Describes the characteristics and technical aspects of executive information systems (EISs), a class of software that meets the requirements of executives in all their many and varied roles.
Abstract: Software, to be useful to executives, must be flexible, easy‐to‐use and enable executives to digest vast amounts of information in a way that diminishes their computer inhibitions. Describes the characteristics and technical aspects of executive information systems (EISs), a class of software that meets the requirements of executives in all their many and varied roles.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Selecting the right accounting package has become increasingly complex, and a business needs to evaluate various accounting packages to select one that will best satisfy the company′s current and future financial information needs.
Abstract: When an organization acquires a computer system, accounting is normally the first business application that is computerized. In the past most business had to develop their own accounting software, or continue to operate without one, because of the lack of suitable off‐the‐shelf accounting software packages. In recent years, software companies have been developing a wide spectrum of accounting software packages and currently there are well over 100 accounting software packages on the market ranging from simple cheque‐book programs to powerful modular systems. Selecting the right accounting package has become increasingly complex, and a business needs to evaluate various accounting packages to select one that will best satisfy the company′s current and future financial information needs.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: All the practical problems of implementing EDI, from the initial choice of the type of system to common problems with electronic trading partners, and the impetus that EDI can give to change dated working practices are discussed.
Abstract: Until electronic data interchange (EDI) reaches a business manager audience, it still has inertia to overcome. These are the people who can harness the real advantages that EDI developments provide and to whom the article is addressed. Discusses all the practical problems of implementing EDI, from the initial choice of the type of system to common problems with electronic trading partners. Includes the three main types of EDI systems and the advantages of each, together with some basic design criteria for EDI software. Places emphasis on the impetus that EDI can give to change dated working practices. This is the real commercial secret of EDI.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the authors argue that today's methods of justification focus too strongly on quantifiable benefits and do not neccesarily justify expenditure on office systems and suggest that, while it is understandable that management will need to be able to justify investments in financial terms, these methods need to evolve to access benefits at both a quantitative and qualitative level which will provide a more credible measure of the value of investments.
Abstract: Difficulties in measuring the benefits of office automation are preventing investment in systems. Examines the problems for organizations attempting to cost‐justify office automation. Benefits attributed to office automation used to be quantifiable, however, more recently office automation is being used to support managers whose benefits are much “softer” and not as quantifiable. Proposes that today′s methods of justification focus too strongly on quantifiable benefits and do not neccesarily justify expenditure on office systems. Suggests that, while it is understandable that management will need to be able to justify investments in financial terms, these methods need to evolve to access benefits at both a quantitative and qualitative level which will provide a more credible measure of the value of investments.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The basic tenets of an object‐oriented database system are summarized, including a brief history of object-oriented programming as well as a discussion of what the object‐ oriented approach entails.
Abstract: Summarizes the basic tenets of an object‐oriented database system, including a brief history of object‐oriented programming as well as a discussion of what the object‐oriented approach entails. Includes definitions on key concepts and terminology. Discusses the pros and cons of the object‐oriented model, along with a comparison with relational database systems. Finally, covers a development plan for implementing an object‐oriented database system, with details about what types of costs and concerns are involved.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The CIM concept is a combination of all production‐related activities to be completely integrated by means of computer‐supported systems to improve profitability in manufacturing industry.
Abstract: The hope that profitability can be increased or maximized with automation has been the driving force for computer integrated manufacturing (CIM). The CIM concept is a combination of all production‐related activities to be completely integrated by means of computer‐supported systems. Provides an overview of the various objectives and uses of CIM in manufacturing industry.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The computer is probably the single greatest innovation of the twentieth century, however, with all their awe‐inspiring capabilities, computers create a new set of problems.
Abstract: The computer is probably the single greatest innovation of the twentieth century. However, with all their awe‐inspiring capabilities, computers create a new set of problems. Seeks to explore the problems of the automation and computer age. Begins by highlighting numerous corporate woes and failures. Analyses the reasons for the problems and failures and finally suggests possible solutions.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, the concept of materials traceability is discussed and it is shown how it can produce up to 80 per cent of the benefits of total quality management in any production process.
Abstract: Discusses the concept of materials traceability showing how it can produce up to 80 per cent of the benefits of total quality management. Identifies a number of critical control points (CCPs) in any production process. These are the points at which things could go wrong and where the source of complaint may be found. Demonstrates how a sophisticated system can record data at each of these CCPs leading to improved efficiency.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: It is shown that, while computer fraud and abuse is a growth industry, many organizations do not seem to take computer security seriously and simple matters such as proper management of passwords and virus checking are often neglected.
Abstract: Reviews the findings of the Audit Commission′s fifth triennial report on computer fraud and abuse, published in October 1994. This shows that, while computer fraud and abuse is a growth industry, many organizations do not seem to take computer security seriously. Also considers a survey conducted by an undergraduate of Leeds Metropolitan University. This reached broadly similar conclusions. Many organizations do not have basic computer security procedures in place. Simple matters such as proper management of passwords and virus checking are often neglected. Management should ensure basic procedures are in place. These low‐cost procedures can do much to reduce the incidence of computer fraud and thereby avoid the associated cost and inconvenience.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Fuzzy logic appliances employ an expert system on a chip that is able to mimic the range of flexibility of the human mind, while utilizing resources more efficiently.
Abstract: Sets out to provide an understanding of the theory of fuzzy logic by supplying background details concerning its evolution in mathematics and computer science. Once a basic understanding of the theory is obtained, then it is easier to understand the implications for computer applications. Fuzzy logic processors and compilers have facilitated the development of expert systems that typically use a lot of imprecise data. These expert systems have been used successfully as control units in industrial settings and as decision support systems in hospital settings. Fuzzy logic has been found to be a practical and viable form of artificial intelligence that mitigates the current drawbacks of other forms of artificial intelligence. But the really exciting development that is poised to emerge is the introduction of fuzzy logic appliances. These appliances employ an expert system on a chip that is able to mimic the range of flexibility of the human mind, while utilizing resources more efficiently.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors consider the macro-environmental factors with particular reference to the political environment, unemployment and violence, and the effect of the removal of sanctions on the South African chemical industry.
Abstract: Examines some of the issues faced by South African manufacturing concerns and considers in particular the chemical industry. Considers the macro‐environmental factors with particular reference to the political environment, unemployment and violence, and the effect of the removal of sanctions. Examines the South African chemical industry in terms of its past history and present structure. Discusses the new challenges faced by the industry and potential new strategies which can advance the South African chemical industry.