Implementing Information Systems

A SWOT analysis aids in strategically examining a company's strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats.

S-Strengths
W-Weaknesses
O-Opportunities
T-Threats

This can be applied to an IT department to identify human, technical, and financial resources.

If you see the need for a systems request or someone else mentions they need IT support, it is probably for one or more of the following reasons:

• better performance
  
• improved services
  
• reduced cost
  
• more information
  
• stronger controls
• support for new products and services

When you decide you want to implement a new information system consider these internal factors:

• Strategic Plan
• Top Managers
• User Requests
• Information Technology Department
• Existing Systems and Data

Also consider these external factors:

• Technology
• Suppliers
• Customers
• Competitors
• The Economy
• Government