A fractal perspective on competencies necessary for managing information systems

1. A fractal perspective on competencies necessary for managing information systems 指導老師 ：張菽萱 博士 學生 ： 胡素琴

2. Abstract • In this paper, we present a view of the necessary skill set for managing information technology（IT）in organizations. • IT systems are conceptualised as embodying a fractal quality in which they must be customised to reflect the most essential aspects of the organization’s business policies.

3. Introduction（1/2） • In general, the early literature on information systems reflected a ‘mechanistic’ conceptualization of information technology. • Integration success became dependent on the extent that the tool produced actually could accommodate the uses and conflicts inherent in the organizational system.

4. Introduction（2/2） • In this article, we draw on complexity theory to help managers think in a structured way about the implications of nonlinearity between technology and the organization. • Information systems are not an asset, but an integral part of the process and dynamic capabilities of the organization.

5. Review of Chaos theory（1/2） • The ability of researchers to see patterns, for instance in the rise and fall of civilizations, or in the rise and fall of organizations, has continued to energise interest in using nonlinear models for conceptualising social science.

6. Review of Chaos theory（1/2） • Chaos theory, then, is a subset of the larger study of dynamic nonlinear systems, and in particular refers to the qualitative study of unstable, aperiodic behaviour in deterministic（notably not radom）, nonlinear dynamical systems. To the degree that an observer can comprehend the nature of a chaotic system, there is the opportunity to identify to identify some level of hidden order in apparent chaos, there can exist some level of order in the completely unpredictable, seemingly ‘random’ nature of social science phenomena.

7. Fractal phenomena • They create recognizable ‘patterns’. • They are incredible intricate and complex. • The patterns reappear at every level. • The same pattern emerges at large and small level . • Their unique dynamic qualities of being increasingly unpredictable as time is exit and yet acting within the bounds of patterns move the system to a new fractal.

8. Specific assumptions applied to IS integration（1/2） • Chaos theory provides us a mechanism for thinking about a different set of questions in relation to nonlinear systems. • While IS development lead time continue to shorten using new methods like Agile Development, there are no ‘instant solutions’ that can precisely overcome the time gap between problem definition and solution realisation.

9. Specific assumptions applied to IS integration（2/2） • IS are not stand-alone assets. • The value of the IS system is not the software, but the ability of the organisation to engage in the structuration necessary for it to embed important organisational functions into the software, and similarly, to adapt itself to exploit the abilities of IS.

10. Skill implied from this perspective（1/2） • Mechanist skill usually emphasise rationalist, control-oriented views in regard to integration. • The vitalist school can inform us on the human dimension. • A different set of skills from refinement of technological design and the improvement of the human management skills.

11. Skill implied from this perspective（2/2） • Understand organisation that is likeky to address the importance of variables such as firm experience, personal networks, and the ability to impose meaning in ambiguous situations.

12. Conclusion • Chaos Theory is a means to review skills necessary for managing IS. • The mechanists and the vitalists are the principal message of Chaos Theory. • We understand organisaitonal actions and IS management as a nonlinear dynamic process.

13. ~Thank you for your attention~