Showing papers on "Information quality published in 1992"

Information Systems Success: The Quest for the Dependent Variable

Abstract: A large number of studies have been conducted during the last decade and a half attempting to identify those factors that contribute to information systems success. However, the dependent variable in these studies-I/S success-has been an elusive one to define. Different researchers have addressed different aspects of success, making comparisons difficult and the prospect of building a cumulative tradition for I/S research similarly elusive. To organize this diverse research, as well as to present a more integrated view of the concept of I/S success, a comprehensive taxonomy is introduced. This taxonomy posits six major dimensions or categories of I/S success-SYSTEM QUALITY, INFORMATION QUALITY, USE, USER SATISFACTION, INDIVIDUAL IMPACT, and ORGANIZATIONAL IMPACT. Using these dimensions, both conceptual and empirical studies are then reviewed a total of 180 articles are cited and organized according to the dimensions of the taxonomy. Finally, the many aspects of I/S success are drawn together into a descriptive model and its implications for future I/S research are discussed.

Corporate Governance and Disclosure Quality

Abstract: The effectiveness of control exercised over executive remuneration and the quality of information disclosed in financial statements have given rise to concern and have led to proposals for the reform of corporate governance. A model of the optimal disclosure decision is presented in terms of managerial incentives and the impact of corporate governance structures. An investigation into the quality of share option disclosure in financial statements is used as the basis for testing hypotheses derived from the model and for assessing alternative policy options. The results support the need for guidance on the duties and responsibilities of audit committees and non-executive directors but fall short of providing a basis for deciding whether regulatory action is required. The evidence also supports the view that a threat to monitoring quality exists where the roles of chief executive and chairman are combined.

On Variation, Uncertainty and Informatics in Environmental Soil Management

Abstract: The soil scientist's duty in the debate on environmental management is, at least, to understand the soil and to provide and purvey accurate and precise information concerning it. This paper deals with information m environmental soil management; especially the way its quality and quantity may be modified by soil variation and various kinds of uncertainty, and how its presentation may be enhanced by the accoutrements of information technology. Soil exhibits continuous change m space and time. This variation is usually considered to be problematic in relation to sampling effort, quality of information and for optimal soil management. When ecological principles are considered soil variation is seen as a risk-averse strategy and may be advantageous for sustainable management. Evidence from cultivation is presented to support this hypothesis. The concept of pedodiversity is discussed and a simple example of an optimal preservation strategy based on pedodiversity is given. Three types of uncertainty in soil information are considered in detail: stochastic, deterministic and semantic. The tools of informatics which allow the soil scientist to provide more information or more detailed information for the same effort are discussed briefly These are knowledge-based systems, simulation modelling, spatial and temporal statistics and geostatistics, multivariate techniques, aspatial and spatial information systems. Combinations of these techniques are particularly powerful. Environmental soil management requires a philosophy that generates ways of thinking about soil from which flows realistic soil data models. Such models can be manipulated by the tools of informatics which are not to be considered as ends in themselves.

Development of intelligent geographical information systems

Abstract: The analysis of geographical information is compared with other production processes in which a user can only accept an end-product if it meets certain quality requirements. Whereas users are responsible for defining the levels of quality they need to use the results of the analyses of geographical information systems in their work, database managers, experts and modellers could greatly assist users to achieve the quality of results they seek by formalizing information on: (1) data collection, level of resolution and quality; (2) the use of the basic analytical functions of the geographical information system; and (3) the data requirements, sensitivity and error propagation in models. These meta-data could be incorporated in a knowledge base alongside the geographical information system where, together with procedures for on-line error propagation, a user could be advised on the best way to achieve a desired aim. If the analysis showed that the original constellation of data, methods and models c...

The advantages of electronic data interchange

Abstract: The purpose of this research was to identify success factors of EDI implementation and the benefits organizations could obtain by using this technology. The success factors found empirically in a field study of 140 Canadian enterprises are the organizational support, the implementation process, the control procedures and the level of EDI integration in the firm. The level of success also depends upon the level of imposition of EDI by partners. The study found evidence that, in order of importance, the benefits of EDI implementation are improvements in terms of information quality, transaction speed, administrative costs, strategic advantage and operations management.

Information Systems Requirements : Determination and Analysis

Abstract: Part 1: information systems basics what is an information system? perspectives on information systems. Part 2: understanding information systems in organizations the systems approach analyzing organizations and information systems management systems. Part 3: hard approach to information systems the systems development process requirements determination analysis I - entities and rules analysis II - process methods tools. Part 4: soft approach to information systems hard and soft approaches organizational theory and information systems strategic planning social issues and information systems.

Information and development: Some reasons for failures

Abstract: Information workers as yet have not fully understood the relationship existing between information and development. After a short exposition of this relationship, in which the author indicates that information should be seen as one of the essential know‐how resources, this article argues the value and necessity of information for development. An attempt is made to classify the various areas where information is needed for development, as well as the information systems and infrastructures available and/or required to provide for the different needs. A number of reasons are given as to why information has not yet played the role in development that it could play. In conclusion, some guidelines are given for optimal use of information as a resource for development.

Evaluation of EIS from a managerial perspective

Abstract: . While executive information systems (EIS) constitute a rising trend in the use of information technology in organizations, much is still unknown in terms of the attributes an EIS should possess in order to increase the probability of successful implementation. A survey was conducted on 28 Canadian organizations, with 52 users giving their perceptions on the various attributes of EIS. Results indicate that the more important aspects relate to the quality of information and the benefits provided by EIS. Less important are the user-interface and technical capabilities. User satisfaction with the attributes of their present system was also measured. In this regard, managers were more content with the quality of information and the user-interface than with the benefits and the technical capabilities of their EIS. Overall, top-managers were less satisfied with the present system than lower-level managers.

Natural Resource and Environmental Information for Decisionmaking

Abstract: Unless a development project is environmentally sound it is unlikely to experience longterm economic viability. Environmental and natural resource information must therefore be incorporated in development assistance projects. The virtual explosion of information gathering and management tools has been so rapid and the experience of project managers is so limited that the assimilation of new information tools into decision-making processes has been hampered. This report will help project managers to use environmental and natural resource information in project design management monitoring and evaluation and to select the proper technologies to acquire such information in effective ways. Discussions of the use of the information are generic rather than specific and discussions of information are practical rather than technical (technical descriptions are annexed). The report covers World Bank operational experience in using natural resource information with examples from Nepal Indonesia Africa and the Philippines. After a discussion of common information needs and how to determine information needs basic and variable assessment criteria for selecting from existing information sources are introduced and institutional considerations are given. Ways to fill information gaps include processing existing data further and acquiring new data. The generic types of information management are related with a discussion of analytical and management tools. Geographic information systems are described along with their hardware and software and notes on how to implement their capabilities. Institutional aspects of information resources are included with a topology of institutional problems and a discussion of underlying issues. The report ends with a consideration of current trends; the World Bank requirements for environmental information; and the National regional and global outlook. Extensive annexes cover resources information needs and sources as well as resource information generation analysis and management. A bibliography is also included.

The Press, the Market, and Democracy

Abstract: The post-Stalinist states in Eastern Europe will almost certainly develop a newspaper press that is based on the market These developments pose some problems for the future of the developing democratic systems This paper examines the detailed workings of the press market in a situation where advertising revenue is an important element in newspaper finances, using examples from Britain It is demonstrated that left to itself this market will stratify information provision and fail to provide all citizens with the same quality of information and opinion In particular, low-income groups who want access to detailed public information, will not be catered to To alleviate these problems and to assist in the development of democracy, it is argued that the reconstruction of public communication in Eastern Europe must make use of subsidies

Electronic information systems and farmer decision making: Five case studies

Abstract: In-depth interviews with four farmers and one grain purchaser currently using electronic information are used to explore the impact of electronic information systems on decision-making. Key findings are that the most successful users had articulated information needs, had an adequate store of human capital, used electronic information either to save time or to become more efficient with time, and had at least an informal overall management information system in their business. Thus, successful users found that use of an electronic information system improved decision-making. Copyright 1992 by Oxford University Press.

The use of quality control principles and methods in library and information science theory and practice

Abstract: Basic Quality Control (QC) concepts are explained, with examples from the information sector. An analytical tool for measuring the level of QC is presented. The tool has two dimensions, quality activities and organizational functions. Recent, scholarly library and information science works on information quality issues are analysed as regards the influence of QC principles and methods. Cases of implemented QC-programmes in libraries are also investigated. The findings revealed a «missing link» in library and information science scholarly literature as regards the organizational implementation of QC. It also revealed that practices of QC in libraries, in some respects, seems to be ahead of theory. The need for furhter theoretical and methodological development within library and information science is stressed

Analysis of Information about Television in Developmental Psychology Textbooks

Abstract: A content analysis of the information about television and children was performed on child and adolescent development textbooks to determine the degree of emphasis and quality of information provided. There is considerable variability among textbooks with respect to the amount and type of information. Pairwise group comparisons indicate that information about television declined from 1986 to 1989 and that child development texts are more likely than child and adolescent or adolescent textbooks to present information about television. Analysis of the textbook material is contrasted with the extensive literature on television and children to indicate biases and omissions in textbook presentations. Implications of these findings for teaching courses in child and adolescent development are discussed.

Corporate information systems and information technologies

Abstract: A corporate activities business-cycle model composed of PLAN, DO, and SEE activities is described. This model is constructed on two layers: an organizational layer and an individual layer. Regularity of both data structures and algorithms is defined from program production aspects as follows: if the data structures and algorithms of a program can be defined prior to all computations, they are regular, otherwise they are irregular. It is shown that unique information technologies are required to develop each system. Several information technologies are proposed for each information system: real-time database maintenance for DO information systems, a data supply system for SEE information systems, an automatic index generator and a virtual office environment for PLAN information systems, and private data management and automatic terminal operation for PLAN and SEE information systems at an individual layer under organizational DO activities. >

Assessment of the quality of prenatal care: the transmission of information to pregnant women in maternal and child health centers in Jordan.

Abstract: The quality of information provided to pregnant women seeking prenatal care from public maternal and child health (MCH) facilities was assessed in Irbid, the principal city in the North of Jordan. The structural setup of the settings, as well as the process of information transmission, were examined using interviews of the managing physicians and recipients, as well as observation of encounters between pregnant women and health care providers (physicians and midwives) at the health facility. The results of the study showed that pregnant women's needs for health information were not being adequately met Women were dissatisfied with the quality of information delivered. Inadequacies in both the structure and the process of information provision are discussed.

Establishing a research agenda for scientific and technical information (STI) - Focus on the user

Abstract: This report addresses the relationship between library science and information science theory and practice, between the development of conceptual understanding, and the practical competence of information professionals. Consideration is given to the concept of research, linking theory with practice, and the reality of theory based practice. Attention is given to the need for research and research priorities, focus on the user and information-seeking behavior, and a user-oriented research agenda for STI.

Integration information systems using an object-oriented approach

Abstract: With ever-increasing amounts of information being stored on computers, there is a growing demand for systems that will support convenient access to information that is distributed over multiple information systems. In this paper we describe a system called KOPERNIK * , which uses an object-oriented approach to define partly integrated views of a collection of autonomous information bases. These views, as well as multi-information-base queries, are described using a language-independent meta-model

Information Systems and Constructing Problems

Abstract: Draws on a large group of research projects on the management use of information systems in the British National Health Service. Argues that information systems are just one part of the system of information by which the manager knows what is going on, and within which he or she constructs problems. Compares the advantages and disadvantages of four ways in which a manager may know about what is going on: information systems, gossip, walking about, and experience and imagination. Considers the effectiveness of these four for problem construction. Suggests that setting information systems in the context of other parts of the manager′s system of information may enable both the designers and the users of such systems to consider more carefully when and how their systems can be of use to senior managers in problem construction ‐ for it is more important for senior managers to be able to construct problems than to solve them.

Operationalizing Quality Considerations in the Purchasing Proces

Abstract: Operationalizing Quality Considerations in the Purchasing Process This article examines the use of product quality information in capital equipment purchasing decisions The authors incorporate specific quality factors in a simple analytical model designed to provide a buyer with the capability to appropriately consider quality differences in reaching a cost-effective purchasing decision Initially, dimensions of product quality are identified and discussed based on the parameters proposed by David Garvin Using the Garvin framework, the article then reports the results of a study of procurement professionals in which the feasibility and desirability of explicit consideration of quality factors in the purchasing process are established Finally, the article extends the consideration of specific quality factors by introducing and illustrating an analytical approach that effectively incorporates quality differences in a structured and auditable model The model projects the cost implications to the firm of those quality differences identified The analysis indicates that generally accepted dimensions of quality can be identified and applied operationally to assist a buyer in making the most effective purchasing decision INTRODUCTION Important purchasing decisions typically involve a complex ranking and evaluation of a variety of objective and subjective factors These factors may be addressed explicitly, in the form of objective criteria, or implicitly, based on judgment In the final analysis, most purchasing decisions focus on the "classical" purchasing objective: To buy materials and services of the right quality, in the right quantity, at the right price, from the right source, and at the right time[1] Success in selecting the "right quality" typically impacts the effectiveness of the buying organization's operations And, for repetitive purchases, suppliers establish a track record of performance that can be used in making subsequent purchasing decisions QUALITY: WHAT IS IT AND HOW CAN IT BE BOUGHT? David A Garvin has proposed the following five approaches to defining quality: * The Transcendent Approach is the philosophic concept of "innate excellence," which is both absolute and universally recognized through experience * The Product-Based Approach focuses on the quantity of some ingredient or attribute possessed by a product Like the amount of cream in ice cream, it can be assessed objectively and is based on more than preferences alone * The User-Based Approach begins with the premise that quality "lies in the eyes of the beholder" It is subjective and rooted in consumer preferences * The Manufacturing-Based Approach focuses on engineering and manufacturing practices It identifies quality as "conformance to requirements," and it is equated with meeting specifications or making a product right the first time * The Value-Based Approach defines quality in terms of costs and prices Quality provides performance at an acceptable price The phrase "affordable excellence" summarizes the dilemma[2] In assessing these alternative definitions of quality, it should be noted that the approaches often conflict or overlap and may lead to disparate conclusions For example, under the product-based definition of quality, one expects to pay more for quality because it is expected that better materials, workmanship, and inspection are applied to achieve this quality Theoretically, from the product-based model, there should be a positive correlation between the price and the quality of an item This is a marketable attribute--regardless of whether it is based on fact, reputation, or simply impression--which can be applied when marketing under the user-based perspective …

Making company information accessible: how to develop an online information system

Abstract: A method for developing an online information system that provides employees with access to company information is presented. The method integrates knowledge from many areas of expertise: systems analysis (software development), instructional design, human factors, information science, visual design, user interface design, and technical communication. A case example illustrating the operation of a developed information system is presented. >

Straight Talk from Wall Street

Abstract: Straight talk from Wall Street What makes an effective investor relations program? The answer depends to an extent on your position. I will provide the perspective of a Wall Street bank stock analyst. We'll start with the person in charge of investor relations. This person must have a thorough understanding of the company and its financial statements, as well as access to senior management. He or she must be able to perform the delicate task of providing information to analysts and investors without crossing the line of differential disclosure. This person cannot be purely a cheerleader, nor a sugar-coater. The goal is to present a fair picture of current conditions. There is no one spot in the organization from which the head of investor relations should come. For example, at Wachovia Corp. and Mellon Bank Corp. the heads of investor relations are individuals located in the finance part of the organization. Both are excellent. Bank of America Corp. has one individual whose sole responsibility is investor relations and he is the best in the business. Fleet/Norstar Financial Group operates with a team involving the chief financial officer and two individuals with responsibilities in addition to investor relations. Yet the result is quite effective. The form may vary, but in all these cases the end result is an effective program. Unfortunately, in too many companies, including some of the largest banking firms, the head of investor relations is either not knowledgeable about the company and its financial or lacks timely access to senior management. These companies are known for their mishandling of important information, for differential disclosure, and for the dreaded "surprise" announcement. Responsive voice. As important as the quality of information disseminated is its timeliness. Institutional analysts and investors are under ever-increasing pressure to gain access to important information and draw investment conclusions. At First Union Corp. and Wells Fargo & Co., investor relations staffs are briefed about the company's quarterly earnings just before they are released. In this way, several individuals at the company are then able to answer questions from analysts and investors once the earnings release is made public. At other companies there is only one individual available to answer questions. This inevitably leads to long delays in receiving answers and effectively puts some analysts at a significant competitive disadvantage. However, because there are more investors and analysts than staffers, at times priorities will have to be made as to who is called first. Don't just return calls in the order they are received. In my opinion, the top priorities should be large shareholders and those Wall Street analysts who have been particularly visible (both positive and negative) in providing research on the company. This may seem unfair, but it will lead to quickest dissemination of information. Good, timely disclosure. Analysts are never satisfied with the level of disclosure. So it's only natural that one of the traits that I find in the best investor relations programs is excellent disclosure of timely information. Recent examples of breakthroughs in the disclosure of important new information include: * A reconciliation of flows in nonperforming assets provided by Valley National Corp., Bank of Boston Corp., and Shawmut National Corp. * First Tennessee National Corp. provides a breakdown of its loan portfolio by risk rating. * Wells Fargo provides excellent disclosure of the cash payments received on nonperforming loans. The goal of increased disclosure should be to put meat on the bones of the company's required financial statements. The enhanced disclosure of asset quality trends previously described, as well as line-of-business results, are quite helpful in this regard. …

Comprehensive theory of information: definition and measures

Abstract: This theory purports to provide comprehensive knowledge of every aspect about the object and its motion concerned, not only knowledge about the form of the object's state/manner but also knowledge about the meaning and utility of the object's state/manner with respect to the subject. >