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An Object Oriented Architecture Model for International Information Systems?: An Exploratory Study

An Object Oriented Architecture Model for International Information Systems?: An Exploratory Study
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Author(s): Hans Lehmann (University of Auckland, New Zealand)
Copyright: 2000
Pages: 7
Source title: Challenges of Information Technology Management in the 21st Century
Source Editor(s): Mehdi Khosrow-Pour, D.B.A. (Information Resources Management Association, USA)
DOI: 10.4018/978-1-878289-84-1.ch053
ISBN13: 9781878289841
EISBN13: 9781466665316

Abstract

A case history of an Australasian international enterprise is analysed to detect the causal factors in the difficulties this firm had in attempting to implement a global information system throughout its subsidiaries. A force field structure emerged in the case, as a forum for conflict between business users and information technology people. These conflicts were never resolved and the global information system was never implemented in its intended form. At the heart of the conflict was the inability of both parties to agree a split between application systems imposed by the centre and those for which the local offices would be responsible. A two-dimensional topology emerged as possible architecture paradigm conducive to forestalling such conflicts. The architecture model is furthermore useful as a design vehicle for participatory and consensual building of an international information system. Object orientation is investigated as the fundamental design principle. For enabling implementation differentiation and future changeability, it is conjectured that object technology is the optimal development strategy for international information systems. Directions for further research are outlined.

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