An analysis of the techniques used in ranking information system projects

摘要

Extensive coverage has been given in the literature recently to information systems (IS) planning and in particular to the aggressive use of information technology in business. Most of the analyses of IS ranking techniques concentrate on the financial aspects of IS projects, using such techniques as cost/benefit analysis and return on investment. Relatively little has been written on all the possible techniques, or on the advantages and potential pitfalls of each.This article comprehensively describes and analyses three approaches: the political, the economic and the scoring models. It pays particular attention to the cost/benefit technique. It concludes that a financial focus will discourage important exploration into the aggressive use of the technology. Only a comprehensive methodology that uses the techniques objectively will ensure that the IS portfolio contains a balanced view of the needs of the total organization.