Evaluating existing information systems from a business process perspective

Abstract

The evaluation of existing information systems has gained importance in information systems management. A research project involving ten major Swiss companies and the University of St. Gallen has developed a method for assessing existing systems from a business process perspective. Systems are evaluated at two levels: the business process supported, and the technical and functional quality of the system. Users and business managers participate actively in the evaluation project. Evaluation criteria are derived using a critical success factor approach and a set of generally applicable factors. Measurement is considered central to the evaluation, and is supported by a set of generic measures and a catalogue of further measures. The evaluation aims at initiating improvement actions. The method has been tested successfully in the participating companies.