Document Type

Thesis

Date of Award

5-31-1983

Degree Name

Master of Science in Management Engineering - (M.S.)

Department

Industrial and Management Engineering

First Advisor

James L. Rigassio

Abstract

The area of information technology has undergone dramatic changes over the past ten years, and the rate of change is expected to continue to accelerate through the 1980's and beyond. The newly developing information systems are providing organizations with numerous options for enhancing the quality of managerial decision making, speeding communications and improving the efficiency and effectiveness of administrative/office processes. Unfortnately, many organizations are discovering that they are unable to effectively assimilate and utilize the technology effectively. Chief executives are finding that the traditional structures for managing Data Processing, Telecommunications, and office systems are often fragmented, lack the technical expertise necessary, and are slow to respond to the tremendous opportunities offered by the new technology due to inadequate organizational planning and development.

The Thesis research includes a review of the evolution of information systems management, describes the concept of Distributed Data Processing and relates this trend to emerging Office automation technology. This review forms the base for a critical discussion of current thinking on placement of the Information Processing function within the organization of Information Services. In addition, the traditional activities and responsibilities of Information Processing functions, the need for changes in management structure vis-a-vis the distribution of responsibility for existing management structures are analyzed. In conclusion, criteria for the development of organizational structures capable of meeting the challenges posed by today's technology are outlined.

The information and views contained in this Thesis should enable managers to grasp the basic direction and scope of present information technologies. In addition, it will afford them a better urderstanding of the management and organizational problems they may now be facing. The Thesis outlines design criteria for altering/optimizing present management structures and summarizes these criteria in a generalized checklist format. This information is intended to provide them with the means of developing their own solutions to these problems.

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