Process dimensions and effectiveness of information systems planning: An empirical study on the implementation status of Chinese enterprises

Abstract

Information systems planning (ISP) is a critical concern for top executives and chief information officers (CIOs) of enterprises. This paper summarizes the process dimensions of ISP and proposes a descriptive model to describe these dimensions and their relationships with the planning effectiveness. The research model is empirically tested by the data collected from 125 Chinese big companies. Our results indicate: (1) the way of initiating and implementing the information system (direction of planning flow) significantly influences the other dimensions of ISP; (2) ISP is a non-technology-driven managerial activity. Thus dimensions on the organizational level, rather than technology-related process dimensions, strongly influence ISP effectiveness.