Use of Information Technology to Support the Drive E-Business in Research Paper

Use of Information Technology to Support the Drive E-Business in Organizations - Research Paper Example When introducing changes to the business model, staff must be retrained and the work culture managed to ensure successful implementation of a new system. Challenges in the integration of new information systems into business processes and information needs of an organization are inevitable. These challenges include training, outsourcing expertise and selecting appropriate systems. Therefore, it is important for organizational managers to identify these challenges and overcome them so that the advantages of applying information systems in business processes are achieved. Information systems and their incorporation in business functions enhance business activities. Through e-commerce for example, web based information systems are able to increase efficiency and effectiveness in transactions, communication, collaboration and information sharing within the supply chain. Information system adoption and implementation is the most viable business solution for organizations especially those which are experiencing increased growth. It is through the information systems that management is enhanced and efficiency in transactions is achieved via e-business. On deciding to use information technology, the organizations must develop a system that will help integrate all the activities involved in the flow of goods from the suppliers to the customer. The system developed should be web-based given that e-commerce is conducted in distributed networks and must assure all the user of the security of the transactions. This is enforced by use of various components of an IT system. Given the dynamic nature of technology, the system needs to be periodically upgraded and therefore the organization must develop strategies to ensure smooth transitions. Businesses seeking to integrate their operations and processes should use competitive intelligence systems which gather i nformation from all the components of the supply chain thereby guiding the innovation process in a company. However, there are challenges which organizations face in their attempt to integrate new information systems into business processes and information needs. These challenges include deciding on the right information system as presented by vendors to the management. An ideal information system must be in line with business needs and processes including congruency to the goals and objectives of the organization. Organizations also face a challenge f training users to integrate and apply new systems especially when such organizations are large. Outsourcing of technical staff is another challenge in integration because the outsourced companies may not be familiar with the culture, goals and objectives of an organization when integrating the new system. Use of IT to integrate the sales and supply chain management (a) System Requirements To enhance supply chain management which will help companies integrate their relationship with customers and suppliers, there is need to ensure that the system meets some certain requirements. Supply