Key design factors for extra-organizational systems

摘要

The computerization of business operations historically started with internal applications and expanded to external applications with strategic significance. As a consequence, extra-organizational systems (EOS) which encompass external entities of a business emerged. These systems can change the way a business operates and may improve its competitive advantages. The key design issue of an EOS is the interface with its clients and suppliers. This interface may be viewed as a composite of human and machine components. The structuring of these components is affected by the organization's environmental requirements. An analysis of the key factors of these requirements is essential for the design of a proper EOS interface. These key factors include the attributes of customers, products/services, and control function required for a business transaction. Various design strategies are available at a given technological level for an EOS. The use of EOS facilitators and intermediaries may also be employed to make an EOS feasible and successful.