Educating Services Science leaders to Think Holistically About Enterprises

Abstract

Modern enterprises are complex, highly integrated systems comprised of people, processes, and enabling technologies. A strategic business model defines the enterprise landscape and associated strategies for achieving the enterprise goals and mission. The elements of the enterprise exhibit multifaceted interdependencies and interrelationships which are dynamic in nature. The challenges inherent in these modern enterprises are driving an unprecedented demand for high end business services, where a service can be defined as a provider/client interaction that creates value. At the same time, availability of new technologies and the desire to be competitive in the marketplace are driving a focus on standardized service offerings. With this comes the critical need for many more skilled individuals who are able to lead and manage complex service projects; this need can only be fulfilled in a timely and effective manner through a partnership of service provider companies and academic institutions.