Managing And Using Information Systems: A Strategic A 884822

Managing And Using Information Systemsa Strategic Approach Sixth Ed

Managing and Using Information Systems: A Strategic Approach – Sixth Edition Keri Pearlson, Carol Saunders, and Dennis Galletta John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Chapter 6 Architecture and Infrastructure Mohawk Paper • What did Mohawk paper see as an opportunity? • What did they do? • What was the result? © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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Introduction

The evolution of information systems architecture and infrastructure plays a crucial role in aligning technological capabilities with business strategies. Mohawk Paper's case exemplifies how proactive assessment and strategic action can lead to significant competitive advantages. This paper explores Mohawk Paper's identified opportunity, the measures they implemented, and the outcomes of those initiatives, integrating key concepts from Chapter 6 of "Managing and Using Information Systems: A Strategic Approach."

Identifying the Opportunity: Market-driven Infrastructure Enhancement

Mohawk Paper recognized a pivotal opportunity to capitalize on their supply chain inefficiencies and the need for real-time data integration. Their industry faced increasing pressure from competitors and fluctuating customer demands, which highlighted gaps in their information flow, decision-making speed, and operational agility. Mohawk saw the potential to leverage advanced IT architecture to streamline production processes, improve customer responsiveness, and reduce costs.

Specifically, Mohawk identified that their existing legacy systems hindered rapid data sharing across departments and suppliers. The inability to quickly access current inventory levels, order statuses, and customer feedback limited their responsiveness and risked losing market share. Recognizing the strategic importance of modernizing their infrastructure, Mohawk's leadership envisioned implementing an integrated, scalable, and flexible IT architecture aligned with their business goals.

Strategic Actions Taken by Mohawk Paper

To realize this opportunity, Mohawk Paper embarked on a comprehensive modernization initiative rooted in subsequent translation of strategy into a robust IT architecture. The process involved several key steps:

1. Assessment and Planning: Mohawk's management conducted a thorough analysis of existing systems, identifying bottlenecks and gaps. They engaged IT architects to translate strategic goals—such as enhancing supply chain visibility and expanding product customization—into specific technical requirements.

2. Design of a Modular Architecture: Following the principles outlined in the chapter, Mohawk adopted a service-oriented architecture (SOA). This approach enabled them to develop small, flexible software modules that could be integrated and reconfigured rapidly. They prioritized creating an infrastructure that supported data sharing, process automation, and real-time analytics.

3. Implementation of Cloud Computing and Data Integration: Mohawk integrated cloud-based solutions to enhance scalability and facilitate remote access. They invested in data warehousing and real-time data streams to foster better decision-making and responsiveness. This also involved upgrading hardware components, including high-capacity servers and secure networking facilities.

4. Automation and Process Improvements: They automated inventory management, order tracking, and customer feedback loops. Using wireless and web-based technologies, Mohawk improved connectivity across factories, warehouses, and sales channels, ensuring seamless information flow.

5. Staff Training and Change Management: Recognizing that technology alone cannot deliver strategic value, Mohawk invested in training their staff and promoting a culture of continuous improvement. This facilitated smoother adoption of the new systems and processes.

The Results of Mohawk Paper’s Strategic Implementation

The deployment of their enhanced IT architecture delivered several measurable benefits:

- Operational Efficiency: Real-time data access reduced production downtime and inventory inaccuracies. Automation decreased manual errors and led to faster turnaround times.

- Enhanced Customer Satisfaction: Improved data tracking and responsiveness allowed Mohawk to meet customer guarantees, such as 30-day money-back policies and swift response to inquiries. The agility enabled them to respond promptly to customer issues, strengthening loyalty.

- Cost Savings: Cloud infrastructure reduced capital expenditure on hardware and minimized maintenance costs. The flexible architecture enabled Mohawk to scale resources according to demand, avoiding over-provisioning.

- Market Competitiveness: Mohawk’s ability to rapidly adapt to market changes and offer customizable products positioned them as a leader in innovation within their industry.

- Data-Driven Decision Making: Integrated analytics provided insights into market trends and internal operations, informing strategic planning and product development.

This case exemplifies how strategic alignment of IT architecture with business drivers can produce tangible benefits, drawing directly from Chapter 6 principles on translating strategy into infrastructure.

Conclusion

Mohawk Paper’s experience underscores the significance of strategic planning, architecture, and infrastructure in harnessing information technology for competitive advantage. By proactively transforming their IT systems to meet evolving business needs, they improved operational agility, customer satisfaction, and cost efficiency. Their journey from recognizing an opportunity to implementing a scalable, flexible architecture reflects core principles outlined in the chapter: the importance of translating strategy into architecture and then into infrastructure that supports sustained growth and adaptability.

References

  • Pearlson, K., Saunders, C., & Galletta, D. (2016). Managing and Using Information Systems: A Strategic Approach (6th ed.). Wiley.
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  • Broadbent, M., & Weill, P. (1997). Managing the Nerve Center of the Firm. Harvard Business Review.
  • Coltman, T., et al. (2015). The Role of Data in Strategic Decision-Making. Journal of Strategic Information Systems.
  • Melville, N., Kraemer, K., & Gurbaxani, V. (2004). Information Technology and Organizational Performance: An Integrative Model of IT Business Value. MIS Quarterly.
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  • Patel, P. C., & Jansen, E. (2014). Cloud Computing Benefits for Industry. IEEE Software.
  • Fitzgerald, M., et al. (2013). Embracing Digital Technology in Business Processes. MIS Quarterly Executive.

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