2nd Edition

A Practical Guide to Information Systems Strategic Planning

By Anita Cassidy Copyright 2006
    394 Pages 108 B/W Illustrations
    by Auerbach Publications

    The foundation of a successful information systems strategic plan is the recognition that business direction and requirements must drive the IS strategy and computing architecture. A Practical Guide to Information Systems Strategic Planning, Second Edition outlines a systematic approach to guide you through the development of an effective IS plan that is formulated from your company's business plan.

    This volume outlines a quick and easy approach with concepts, techniques, and templates for analyzing, organizing, communicating, and implementing an IS strategy. This approach unites an organization in a collaborative effort resulting in a solid direction that has the support of the entire organization. Establishing this direction cultivates the support of management, enabling necessary strategic IS investments.

    With a new look at the role of IS governance in strategic planning, this second edition reflects advances in technology and provides an improved and thorough planning methodology. The strategic planning process outlined in this book has been supplemented by lessons learned from applying the process in numerous companies, cultures, and environments.

    Purpose of Information Systems Strategic Planning
    Benefits of Information Systems Planning
    Planning Approach
    Conclusion

    IS Governance
    Definition of Governance
    Importance of Governance
    Approaches to Governance
    Involvement of the Organization
    Executive Management
    IS Steering Committee
    CIO
    IS Organization
    Implementation Team
    Conclusion

    The Planning Process
    Planning Components
    Planning Process
    Plan
    Plan Development
    Conclusion

    The Visioning Phase
    Initiate and Manage the Project
    Understand the Business Situation and Vision
    Document and Confirm the Business Analysis
    Business Requirements
    Conclusion

    The Analysis Phase
    Understanding the Current IS Situation
    Analyzing the Current IS Situation
    Developing Recommendations and Solution Alternatives
    Conclusion

    The Direction Phase
    Developing the IS Vision and Direction
    Developing the IS Plan
    Identifying IS Projects
    Conclusion

    The Recommendation Phase
    Develop a Road Map
    Develop a Business Case
    Communicate the Plan
    Conclusion

    Next Steps
    Marketing
    Executing
    Managing
    Measuring
    Conclusion

    Biography

    Anita Cassidy

    "Everyone needs an IT strategy but nobody knows exactly what one is, let alone how to build one. Anita Cassidy has written the definitive how-to book for a traditionally fuzzy field."
    Bob Lewis, President, IT Catalysts

    "A well defined IT strategy provides the cornerstone for any IS organization wishing to distinguish itself as a value added business enabler. This is a clear and practical guide for developing such a strategy. Keep it handy, you'll be using it frequently."
    Ruth Dessel, CIO, Metropolitan Council

    "I read the first edition and now luckily the second. Cassidy's methodology has been enhanced and lifted to the next level. This edition contains new real world examples, checklists, and templates. It is a must read (and follow) for all IT managers."
    Keith Guggenberger, Senior Vice President of Operations , Starkey Laboratories