Promoting business/IT fusion : an OD perspective

Abstract

PURPOSE: It is generally accepted that new information technologies are an integral part of most forms of business initiatives. Evidence suggests that many of these innovations are ineffective and under-utilised. The information systems/information technology (IS/IT) industry often does not seem to be capable of delivering what business clients expect. Owing to this “expectation gap” and various behavioural issues, business experts have a negative perception of the IS/IT function. It is proposed that a new way of alignment between IT and business is necessary The research aims to address two problems, namely, what factors are influencing business-IT interface within organisations, and how the IT executive could contribute towards fusion fulfilling an organisational development (OD) role.

DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: A triangular and qualitative research approach was followed, including a literature study, questionnaire and interview.

FINDINGS: Results indicated a number of reasons leading to IT/business failure and also indicate how fusion can be created by fulfilling an OD role.

RESEARCH LIMITATIONS/IMPLICATIONS: Only companies in the Gauteng region, which is considered to be the economic heart of South Africa, have been included in the study. The small sample size might hinder the generalisation of the results and could be further extended.

ORIGINALITY/VALUE: The research indicates how a healthy business-IT interface can be achieved through the fusion of the IT function and the rest of the business by integrating OD initiatives.